The Best Daycare Centers in Port Murray, NJ
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Port Murray. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Port Murray
The Goddard School of Washington
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Washington offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with creative play. Their state-of-the-art facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. Certified teachers implement play-based learning with STEAM integration, focusing on social, emotional, and cognitive development. The school maintains low student-to-teacher ratios and provides comprehensive safety protocols including background-checked staff and emergency preparedness training. Parents appreciate the regular communication through daily reports and the nutritious meal program.
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Kiddie Academy of Hackettstown
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Hackettstown provides educational childcare with their Life Essentials® curriculum that emphasizes character development, literacy, and STEM learning. The academy features modern, secure facilities with dedicated learning centers, interactive technology, and safe outdoor playgrounds. Highly qualified early childhood educators implement developmentally appropriate practices with individualized learning plans. The center prioritizes health and safety with comprehensive security systems, strict cleanliness protocols, and nutritionally balanced meals. Parents consistently praise the caring staff, engaging curriculum, and strong communication through their mobile app with real-time updates.
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The Learning Experience - Hackettstown
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Hackettstown offers a comprehensive early education program with their proprietary L.E.A.P.® (Learning Experience Academic Program) curriculum that includes phonics, foreign language, and manners programs. The bright, modern facility features secure access, age-specific learning environments, and interactive learning technology. Certified early childhood educators provide individualized attention with small class sizes and focus on school readiness skills. The center emphasizes safety with 24/7 monitoring, emergency protocols, and health screening procedures. Parents value the structured learning environment, experienced staff, and the center's commitment to developing confident, well-rounded children through their enrichment programs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Port Murray, NJ
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Port Murray, NJ?
In Port Murray and the surrounding Warren County area, full-time daycare costs can vary significantly based on the type of facility. For a licensed daycare center, parents can expect to pay between $1,200 to $1,600 per month for infant care. Toddler care typically ranges from $1,000 to $1,400 per month. Home-based family childcare providers in the area often offer slightly lower rates, generally between $900 to $1,300 monthly for full-time care. These costs are influenced by factors like staff-to-child ratios, curriculum offerings, and facility amenities. It's important to note that while Port Murray itself is a more rural community, its proximity to more populous areas like Hackettstown can influence pricing. We recommend contacting providers directly for the most accurate and current rates and inquiring about any potential discounts for siblings or prepayment.
How can I verify if a daycare or preschool in Port Murray is properly licensed and has a good safety record?
All childcare providers in New Jersey must be licensed or registered with the state's Department of Children and Families (DCF), Office of Licensing. To verify a provider's status and review their compliance history, you can use the New Jersey Child Care Search tool available online on the DCF website. This public database allows you to search by county (Warren), city, or provider name to see their license type, capacity, and any cited violations from recent inspections. For a more localized perspective, you can also contact the Warren County Division of Temporary Assistance & Social Services, which may have additional community insights. Always schedule an in-person tour to observe safety protocols, such as secure entrances, cleanliness, and emergency procedures, firsthand.
Are there any unique childcare options in Port Murray that cater to families with non-traditional or agricultural work schedules?
Given Port Murray's rural and agricultural setting, finding childcare for early morning, evening, or weekend shifts can be a challenge. While standard daycare centers typically operate Monday-Friday from around 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM, your best bet for flexible hours often lies with licensed family childcare homes. Some home-based providers in the area may offer more adaptable schedules to accommodate shift workers, including those in farming or related industries. We recommend networking through local community boards, Facebook groups like "Warren County Moms," or contacting the Warren County Chamber of Commerce for referrals. Additionally, exploring a nanny share with another local family needing similar hours could be a viable, though more expensive, solution.
What is the current waitlist situation for daycare centers and preschools in the Port Murray area, and when should I start looking?
Due to limited high-capacity facilities in Port Murray itself and high demand in Warren County, waitlists are common, especially for infant rooms. It is strongly advised to begin your search and get on waitlists **at least 6 to 12 months** before you need care. For popular preschool programs for 3- and 4-year-olds, applying 9-12 months in advance is not unusual. Many families look into options in nearby towns like Washington, Hackettstown, or Phillipsburg, which may have more centers but also significant waitlists. When touring a facility, always ask for their specific waitlist policy, including any deposit required to hold a spot and how often you need to confirm your continued interest.
Are there any state or local subsidy programs available to help with childcare costs for families living in Port Murray?
Yes, eligible families in Port Murray can apply for financial assistance through New Jersey's Child Care Subsidy Program, often referred to as "child care assistance." This state-administered program helps low- and moderate-income families pay for childcare so parents can work or attend school/ training. Eligibility is based on family size, income, and reason for care. Applications are processed through the Warren County Board of Social Services. Additionally, you may inquire about potential scholarships or sliding scale fees directly with local providers. For military families, there is also the national Child Care Aware® program that offers fee assistance. It's crucial to apply for these programs well in advance, as funding can be limited and approval processes take time.