The Best Daycare Centers in Shrewsbury, NJ
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Shrewsbury. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Shrewsbury
The Goddard School of Shrewsbury
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Shrewsbury offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic readiness with social-emotional development. Their state-of-the-art facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. Highly qualified teachers implement developmentally appropriate curriculum with low student-teacher ratios. The school emphasizes STEAM learning, literacy development, and character education while maintaining rigorous safety protocols and comprehensive communication with parents through daily updates and progress reports.
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Kiddie Academy of Shrewsbury
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Shrewsbury provides comprehensive educational childcare with their Life Essentials® curriculum that focuses on character development, literacy, and school readiness. The center features modern security systems including keypad entry, monitored classrooms, and secure outdoor play spaces. Their degreed teachers implement age-appropriate learning activities that promote cognitive, social, and physical development. The academy offers nutritious meals and snacks, regular parent-teacher conferences, and real-time updates through their communication app. Their program emphasizes hands-on learning, technology integration, and community involvement.
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The Learning Experience - Tinton Falls
The Learning Experience
Located just minutes from Shrewsbury in Tinton Falls, The Learning Experience offers a nationally-recognized early education curriculum with their L.E.A.P.® (Learning Experience Academic Program) and phonics-based programming. The center features bright, modern classrooms, multiple playgrounds, and advanced security systems. Their highly trained teachers focus on academic preparation while nurturing social skills and confidence. The facility includes dedicated learning zones for literacy, mathematics, and creative arts, plus enrichment programs in yoga, manners, and philanthropy. Parents receive daily communication and progress tracking through the center's mobile app and regular assessments.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Shrewsbury, NJ
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Shrewsbury, NJ?
In Shrewsbury and the surrounding Monmouth County area, daycare costs are typically higher than the national average due to the region's cost of living. For a full-time infant (under 18 months), parents can expect to pay between $1,600 and $2,200 per month at a licensed center. For toddlers, the range is slightly lower, often between $1,400 and $1,900 per month. Home-based daycare providers in Shrewsbury may offer more affordable options, generally ranging from $1,100 to $1,600 monthly. It's important to note that these are baseline costs; specialized programs, extended hours, or facilities with particular educational philosophies may charge more. We recommend contacting several local providers for precise quotes and inquiring about any available sibling discounts.
How do I verify that a daycare or preschool in Shrewsbury is properly licensed and inspected?
All childcare centers and registered family daycare homes in New Jersey are licensed and monitored by the state's Department of Children and Families (DCF), Office of Licensing. To verify a provider's status and review their recent inspection reports, you can use the state's official "Child Care Search" tool online. This public database allows you to search by provider name, city (Shrewsbury), or zip code. It will show the license status, capacity, ages served, and any cited violations. For the most thorough vetting, parents should also visit the facility in person, ask to see their current license, and request references from other local families. The Shrewsbury Public Library or community center may also have resources on reputable local providers.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Shrewsbury, and how far in advance should I apply?
Yes, due to high demand in this family-oriented community, many of the more popular daycare centers and preschools in Shrewsbury and nearby towns like Red Bank and Little Silver maintain significant waitlists, especially for infant rooms. It is highly advisable to begin your search and submit applications at least 6 to 12 months before your desired start date. For infants, some parents report applying as soon as they know they are pregnant. When touring facilities, always ask specifically about their waitlist process: Is there a fee to be placed on the list? How often is it updated? Do they give preference to siblings or local residents? Exploring a mix of centers and licensed home-based providers can increase your chances of securing a spot sooner.
What are some of the key factors to consider when choosing between a daycare center and a home-based provider in Shrewsbury?
This decision often comes down to your child's needs and your family's priorities. **Daycare Centers** in Shrewsbury (e.g., chains or local standalone centers) typically offer structured curricula, multiple classrooms segmented by age, larger peer groups, and may have more resources like on-site kitchens or playgrounds. They follow strict state-mandated staff-to-child ratios. **Licensed Family Child Care Homes** often provide a more intimate, home-like setting with mixed-age groups, which can be beneficial for siblings. They may offer more flexible hours and can be more affordable. Key considerations include: the provider's educational philosophy, daily routine, safety protocols (like outdoor play space), backup care plans for when the home provider is sick, and your comfort level with the environment. Touring both types in the local area is the best way to compare.
Are there any local resources or programs in Shrewsbury that can help with childcare costs or finding providers?
Yes, there are several resources. First, you may qualify for New Jersey's Child Care Subsidy Program (often called "child care assistance") through WorkFirst NJ, which helps eligible families with the cost of care. You can apply through the Monmouth County Board of Social Services. Additionally, the **Monmouth County Resource and Referral Agency**, 4C's of Monmouth County, is a fantastic local resource. They maintain a database of licensed providers in Shrewsbury and the county, offer parenting workshops, and can guide you through the selection process. Their services are free. Finally, local parent groups on social media platforms (like Facebook groups for Shrewsbury/Red Bank parents) are invaluable for getting personal recommendations and learning about less-advertised home daycare openings.
Nearby Cities
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