The Best Daycare Centers in Plainfield, NJ
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Plainfield. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Plainfield
The Goddard School of Scotch Plains
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in nearby Scotch Plains serves the Plainfield area with a comprehensive F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) program that balances academic learning with social development. Their state-licensed teachers implement play-based learning across all age groups with customized lesson plans. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. The curriculum focuses on literacy, STEM, arts, and social-emotional development with regular progress reports for parents. They maintain low student-teacher ratios and employ degreed early childhood educators.
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Kiddie Academy of Scotch Plains
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy's Life Essentials® curriculum emphasizes character development alongside academic readiness through structured play and hands-on learning. The Scotch Plains location serves Plainfield families with technology-enhanced security systems, nutritious meal programs, and dedicated learning centers. Their degreed teachers implement developmentally appropriate practices with emphasis on literacy, mathematics, and social skills. The academy features modern classrooms, outdoor playgrounds, and comprehensive safety protocols including secure check-in systems and regular safety drills.
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The Learning Experience - Warren
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Warren serves the broader Plainfield region with their proprietary L.E.A.P.® (Learning Experience Academic Program) curriculum that incorporates phonics, foreign language, and manners programs. The center features bright, modern classrooms, multiple playgrounds, and advanced security systems. Their faculty includes certified early childhood educators who implement structured learning activities while promoting social development. The program includes optional enrichment activities like soccer, yoga, and STEM workshops, with emphasis on school readiness and character values.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Plainfield, NJ
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Plainfield, NJ?
In Plainfield, the cost of full-time daycare varies based on the type of facility and the child's age. For center-based care, infant care (under 18 months) typically ranges from $1,200 to $1,600 per month, while toddler care (18 months to 3 years) often costs between $1,000 and $1,400 per month. Home-based family daycare is generally more affordable, averaging $800 to $1,200 monthly for full-time care. These rates are influenced by factors like staff-to-child ratios, curriculum, and facility amenities. It's important to note that costs in Union County can be higher than the state average, so budgeting accordingly is key. Many facilities in Plainfield also offer sibling discounts or sliding scale fees based on income.
How do I verify that a daycare or preschool in Plainfield is properly licensed and meets New Jersey state regulations?
All licensed childcare providers in New Jersey, including those in Plainfield, are regulated by the New Jersey Department of Children and Families (DCF), Office of Licensing. You can verify a facility's license status and review its inspection history online through the DCF's "Child Care Search" portal. When evaluating a center, ensure it displays its license visibly. New Jersey regulations cover critical areas such as staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants), staff background checks and qualifications, health and safety standards, and required programming. You can also contact the Union County DCF office for additional information or to report concerns. Always ask the provider for their license number and look for any violations during your research.
Are there any subsidized childcare or financial assistance programs available for families in Plainfield?
Yes, several programs can help Plainfield families afford childcare. The primary state program is New Jersey's Child Care Subsidy Program (often called "child care assistance"), administered through the Division of Family Development. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and work or school requirements. You can apply online via NJFamilies or through the Union County Board of Social Services. Additionally, Plainfield residents may qualify for the federal Head Start and Early Head Start programs, which provide free, comprehensive early childhood education to low-income families. Local organizations like the Plainfield Community Center and the YMCA of Plainfield may also offer sliding-scale fees or scholarships. It's advisable to apply early, as these programs often have waitlists.
What is the current availability and waitlist situation for daycare centers in Plainfield, especially for infants?
Due to high demand and limited infant care slots (which require lower staff-to-child ratios), finding immediate infant daycare in Plainfield can be challenging. Many reputable centers, particularly those near major employers or transit hubs, have waitlists ranging from 3 to 9 months, sometimes longer for infants. It is strongly recommended that parents begin their search during pregnancy or at least 6 months before their needed start date. To improve your chances, consider applying to multiple centers—including both larger chains and smaller independent centers—and explore licensed family daycare homes, which may have shorter waitlists. Some facilities in Plainfield give priority to siblings of current enrollees or residents of the city, so be sure to ask about their enrollment policies.
What are some key factors to consider when touring a daycare facility in Plainfield, beyond the basics?
When touring a daycare in Plainfield, look for local and community-specific indicators of quality. First, observe the cleanliness and safety of both indoor and outdoor spaces, noting if play areas are secure and age-appropriate. Ask about their emergency procedures, especially regarding weather events common to New Jersey. Inquire about staff retention rates; low turnover often indicates a positive work environment and consistent care for your child. Examine the daily schedule for a balance of structured learning, free play, and outdoor time. Given Plainfield's diverse community, check if the curriculum and staff reflect cultural inclusivity and if they accommodate different languages. Finally, ask about their policy on communication with parents (daily reports, apps like Brightwheel) and their flexibility with the schedules of commuting parents who may use nearby Route 22 or the Plainfield train station.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Plainfield: