The Best Daycare Centers in Paramus, NJ
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Paramus. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Paramus
The Goddard School of Paramus
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Paramus offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that focuses on academic, social, and emotional development. Their state-of-the-art facility features secure entry systems, bright classrooms, and age-appropriate playgrounds. Highly qualified teachers implement play-based learning with STEAM curriculum elements, language development, and character education. The center maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios and provides daily communication through their proprietary mobile app, allowing parents to track their child's activities, meals, and developmental milestones throughout the day.
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Rainbow Academy Early Education & Child Care Center
Rainbow Academy
Rainbow Academy provides comprehensive early childhood education with their proprietary "Rainbow of Learning" curriculum that balances academic preparation with social-emotional development. The center features secure facilities with coded entry systems, multiple age-appropriate playgrounds, and dedicated art and music rooms. Their program includes Spanish language exposure, computer learning stations for older children, and a focus on literacy development. The center employs experienced early childhood educators who receive ongoing professional development and maintain New Jersey state certifications. Nutrition is emphasized with balanced meals and snacks included in tuition.
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The Learning Experience - Paramus
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Paramus offers their proprietary L.E.A.P.® (Learning Experience Academic Program) curriculum that combines academic foundation with social skills and confidence building. The center features modern, secure facilities with bright classrooms, indoor gymnasium, and outdoor play areas. Their program includes early literacy, mathematics, science, and their unique philanthropy curriculum that teaches children the value of giving back. The center employs degreed early childhood educators and maintains low student-to-teacher ratios. Additional features include their Bubbles the Elephant character curriculum for social development, parent communication app with photo updates, and enrichment programs including yoga, music, and movement.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Paramus, NJ
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Paramus, NJ, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Paramus, the average cost for full-time infant daycare typically ranges from $1,400 to $1,800 per month, while toddler care is slightly lower, averaging $1,200 to $1,600 per month. These rates are influenced by factors such as the center's accreditation, staff-to-child ratios, and included amenities like meals or enrichment programs. For financial assistance, New Jersey's Child Care Subsidy Program (often called "child care assistance") is available to eligible families based on income, work, or school requirements. Additionally, some Paramus-based centers may offer sibling discounts or sliding scale fees. It's highly recommended to contact the Bergen County Board of Social Services for detailed eligibility and application information specific to your family's situation.
How do I verify that a daycare center or family childcare home in Paramus is properly licensed and what specific state regulations should I be aware of?
All licensed childcare providers in New Jersey are regulated by the Department of Children and Families (DCF), Office of Licensing. You can verify a Paramus provider's license status and review any inspection reports by using the state's online "Child Care Search" tool. Key New Jersey regulations include strict staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants under 18 months), mandatory background checks for all staff, and annual health and safety training. Paramus providers must also comply with local zoning and fire safety codes. During tours, don't hesitate to ask for their current license and their most recent DCF inspection summary, which they are required to have on-site.
Are waitlists common for daycare centers in Paramus, and what is the best strategy for securing a spot for my child?
Yes, waitlists are very common for reputable daycare centers in Paramus, especially for infant rooms. It's not unusual for popular centers to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months or longer. The best strategy is to begin your search and schedule tours during your second trimester of pregnancy, if possible. When touring, ask specifically about their waitlist process: Is there a fee? How often should you check in? Is the list by age group? Consider applying to multiple centers to increase your options. Also, explore registered family childcare homes, which may have more immediate availability and offer a smaller, home-like setting while still being licensed by the state.
What are the typical operating hours for daycare centers in Paramus, and are there options for parents with non-traditional work schedules?
Most traditional daycare centers in Paramus operate from approximately 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Monday through Friday. However, options for parents with early shifts, late shifts, or weekend work are limited. There are a few centers in the broader Bergen County area that may offer extended hours, but they are not prevalent in Paramus itself. Your best alternatives for non-traditional schedules are to seek out licensed family childcare homes, which may offer more flexible hours, or to arrange a nanny or nanny-share arrangement. Some corporate employers in the Paramus area (near the major malls and office parks) may also have partnerships with nearby centers, so check with your HR department for potential resources.
Beyond basic care, what types of enrichment or educational programs are typically offered by daycare centers in Paramus?
Many Paramus daycare centers incorporate structured educational curricula aligned with New Jersey's Early Learning Standards. Common enrichments include programs like Montessori, play-based learning, or faith-based instruction. Specific offerings often include daily outdoor time (weather permitting), music and movement classes, introductory Spanish, STEM activities for preschoolers, and pre-literacy programs. Given Paramus's diverse community and excellent public school system, many centers focus on kindergarten readiness. Some facilities also offer optional extracurriculars like soccer or yoga for an additional fee. When touring, ask to see a sample weekly schedule and how they tailor activities to different developmental stages.