The Best Daycare Centers in Oakland, NJ
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Oakland. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Oakland
Kiddie Academy of Oakland
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Oakland provides a comprehensive educational curriculum through their Life Essentials® program that focuses on character development, literacy, STEM, and creative arts. The center features state-certified teachers with degrees in early childhood education, secure keypad entry systems, and modern classroom technology. Their curriculum includes daily Spanish lessons, music enrichment, and hands-on learning activities. The facility includes age-appropriate playgrounds, dedicated infant rooms with separate sleeping areas, and a commercial kitchen providing nutritious meals. Parents praise the consistent communication through their mobile app and the center's focus on social-emotional development.
Daycare Services:
The Learning Experience - Oakland
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Oakland offers their proprietary L.E.A.P.® (Learning Experience Academic Program) curriculum that incorporates phonics, mathematics, and manners programming. The center features highly qualified early childhood educators with ongoing professional development training. Safety measures include secured entry systems, comprehensive background checks for all staff, and regular safety drills. The facility includes colorful, developmentally-appropriate classrooms, indoor gymnasium, and outdoor playgrounds with safety surfaces. Their enrichment programs include yoga, music, and soccer, with a strong emphasis on school readiness and social skills development that parents consistently rate highly.
Daycare Services:
Goddard School of Oakland
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Oakland provides a play-based learning approach through their F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) program that balances academic preparation with social development. The center employs degreed teachers who create individualized learning plans for each child. The facility features bright, well-equipped classrooms, multiple outdoor play areas, and dedicated art and music rooms. Their comprehensive safety protocols include secured entry, video monitoring, and strict health and cleanliness standards. The school emphasizes literacy development, STEM exploration, and character education, with parents particularly praising the low teacher turnover and strong community feel.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Oakland, NJ
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool for toddlers in Oakland, NJ, and are there any financial assistance programs available locally?
In Oakland, NJ, full-time daycare or preschool for toddlers typically ranges from $1,200 to $1,800 per month, depending on the center's facilities, curriculum, and age of the child. In-home family daycare may be slightly less, averaging $900 to $1,300 monthly. These costs are influenced by Bergen County's higher cost of living. For financial assistance, New Jersey's Child Care Subsidy Program (through WorkFirst NJ) is available for qualifying families based on income and need. Additionally, some local centers may offer sibling discounts or flexible payment plans. It's also worth checking with the Oakland Parks and Recreation Department for potential affordable preschool or enrichment programs.
How long are waitlists for reputable daycare centers in Oakland, and when should I start my search?
Waitlists for highly-regarded daycare centers and preschools in Oakland can be significant, often ranging from 6 to 12 months, especially for infant and toddler programs. For popular centers with NAEYC accreditation or strong local reputations, waitlists can extend even longer. It is strongly recommended that parents begin their search and schedule tours during the first trimester of pregnancy or at least 9-12 months before their desired start date. Many centers in Oakland have annual enrollment cycles, with key intake periods in the spring for a September start. Being proactive and getting on multiple lists is a common strategy for Oakland parents.
What are the key state licensing requirements and staff-to-child ratios I should verify when touring a daycare in Oakland?
All childcare centers in Oakland must be licensed by the New Jersey Department of Children and Families (DCF), Office of Licensing. Key state-mandated staff-to-child ratios are: 1:4 for infants (under 18 months), 1:6 for toddlers (18 months to 2.5 years), 1:10 for preschoolers (2.5 to 6 years), and 1:12 for school-age children. Lead teachers must have a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential or higher. You can and should verify a center's license status and any history of violations online through the NJ DCF licensing website. During tours, ask to see the current license and confirm that all staff have passed background checks and meet state training requirements in CPR, First Aid, and prevention of communicable diseases.
Are there specific daycare or preschool programs in Oakland that cater to children with special needs or offer inclusive classrooms?
Yes, Oakland has options for inclusive childcare. Several centers participate in New Jersey's inclusive childcare initiatives and can accommodate children with special needs. The Oakland Public School District also runs a preschool program for children ages 3-4 that includes integrated classrooms for children with and without disabilities, though availability may be limited. For more specialized support, parents can seek referrals through early intervention services (for under 3) or the Child Study Team (for over 3). Additionally, some private centers in Oakland and neighboring towns in Bergen County have staff trained in inclusive practices. It's crucial to discuss your child's specific needs directly with the director during a tour.
What are the main differences between a licensed childcare center and a registered family daycare home in Oakland, and how do I find licensed providers?
In Oakland, a licensed childcare center operates in a commercial or dedicated space, follows strict NJ DCF regulations on space, group size, and staff qualifications, and often offers structured curricula for multiple age groups. A registered family daycare home operates in the provider's residence, cares for a maximum of 5 children (including the provider's own), and offers a more home-like environment, often with mixed-age groups and potentially more flexible hours. To find licensed providers, use the official New Jersey Child Care Search tool on the DCF website, which allows you to filter by location (Oakland, 07436), type of care, and age group. The Oakland Public Library and local parenting groups on social media are also valuable resources for personal recommendations.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Oakland: