The Best Daycare Centers in Ramsey, NJ
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Ramsey. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Ramsey
The Goddard School of Ramsey
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Ramsey offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with creative play. Their curriculum focuses on literacy, STEM, art, and physical development with low student-to-teacher ratios. The facility features bright, modern classrooms, secure entry systems, and age-appropriate playgrounds. All teachers are highly qualified with ongoing professional development, and the school maintains rigorous health and safety protocols. Parents praise the school's communication, nurturing environment, and comprehensive developmental tracking.
Daycare Services:
Kiddie Academy of Ramsey
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Ramsey provides educational childcare through their Life Essentials® curriculum that emphasizes character development, social skills, and academic readiness. The program includes technology-enhanced learning, music, Spanish exposure, and hands-on STEM activities. The center features secure keypad entry, comprehensive security cameras, and USDA-approved meal programs. Staff members hold early childhood education credentials and receive continuous training. The academy is noted for its structured daily routines, clean facilities, and strong emphasis on creating a home-like, nurturing environment that prepares children for elementary school.
Daycare Services:
The Learning Experience - Allendale
The Learning Experience
Located just minutes from Ramsey in neighboring Allendale, The Learning Experience offers a comprehensive early education program with their L.E.A.P.® (Learning Experience Academic Program) curriculum. The center specializes in phonics-based reading readiness, mathematics, and social development through proprietary programs like Bubbles the Elephant® for manners and philanthropy. Facilities include interactive whiteboards, indoor gymnasium, and secure outdoor play areas. The center maintains excellent staff-to-child ratios with degreed teachers and emphasizes parent communication through daily reports and mobile app updates. Safety features include biometric entry and comprehensive background checks for all staff.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Ramsey, NJ
What are the typical costs for full-time infant daycare in Ramsey, NJ, and what factors influence the price?
In Ramsey, NJ, full-time infant daycare typically ranges from $1,800 to $2,400 per month. This cost is influenced by several local factors, including the type of facility (corporate chain vs. family-owned center or licensed home daycare), the staff-to-child ratio, the inclusion of amenities like organic meals or a specialized curriculum, and the age of your child (infant care is often the most expensive). Some centers in Ramsey may also charge an annual registration or supply fee. It's important to note that costs in Bergen County are generally higher than the state average due to the area's cost of living. We recommend contacting centers directly for their most current rates and inquiring about any available sibling discounts.
How long are waitlists for reputable daycare centers in Ramsey, and when should I start looking?
Waitlists for highly-regarded daycare centers in Ramsey can be significant, especially for infant and toddler programs. It is not uncommon for popular centers to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months, and sometimes longer. Given this, parents are advised to begin their search and get on waitlists as early as possible—ideally during the first trimester of pregnancy or even when planning for a child. When touring a facility, always ask for their specific waitlist policy, including whether a deposit is required to hold a spot and if the list is actively managed. Exploring a mix of larger centers, smaller preschools, and licensed family childcare homes can increase your options.
What are the key New Jersey state licensing requirements I should verify when choosing a daycare in Ramsey?
All childcare centers in Ramsey must be licensed by the New Jersey Department of Children and Families (DCF), Office of Licensing. Key requirements you should verify include: **Staff-to-Child Ratios** (e.g., 1:4 for infants under 18 months), **Background Checks** for all staff, **Health and Safety Standards** (including safe sleep practices for infants and emergency plans), and **Staff Qualifications** (directors and lead teachers must have specific education and experience). You can and should ask any center for their most recent licensing inspection report, which is a public document. Additionally, many Ramsey centers voluntarily pursue national accreditation (like NAEYC) or participate in NJ's Grow NJ Kids quality rating system, which indicates a higher standard of care.
Are there part-time or flexible childcare options available in Ramsey for parents with non-traditional work schedules?
While most traditional daycare centers in Ramsey operate on a standard Monday-Friday, 7:00 am to 6:00 pm schedule, flexible options do exist. Some centers offer part-time schedules (e.g., 2 or 3 days a week), though these spots are often limited. For more unconventional hours (evenings, weekends, or overnight), your best bet is to search for licensed family childcare homes in the area, as they may offer more personalized and adaptable schedules. Another growing option is to use reputable nanny share networks or agencies serving Bergen County. For drop-in or occasional care, you can check local community centers or gyms like the Ramsey Community Center, which may offer parent's night out programs or seasonal camps.
What resources are available in Ramsey to help me find and evaluate local daycare providers?
Parents in Ramsey have several valuable local resources. First, utilize the **New Jersey Child Care Search Tool** online, which allows you to filter by zip code (07446) and view licensed providers. Second, connect with other parents through community hubs like the **Ramsey Public Library** (which often has bulletin boards) or local Facebook groups (e.g., "Ramsey, NJ Moms & Dads"). Third, the **Bergen County Department of Human Services** can provide information on childcare subsidies and referrals. Finally, always schedule in-person tours. When touring, observe the environment, ask about daily routines, and request references from current parents. Many families in Ramsey also rely on strong word-of-mouth recommendations within neighborhood networks and school districts.