The Best Daycare Centers in South Hackensack, NJ
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in South Hackensack. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in South Hackensack
The Learning Experience - Hackensack
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Hackensack offers a comprehensive early childhood education program with proprietary curriculum including phonics, foreign language, and manners programs. The center features state-of-the-art security systems, certified early childhood educators, and age-appropriate learning environments. Their L.E.A.P. curriculum focuses on developmental milestones through play-based learning, with dedicated infant, toddler, and preschool programs. The facility includes modern classrooms, outdoor play areas, and nutrition programs. Parents consistently praise the structured educational approach and excellent communication from staff.
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Kiddie Academy of Lodi
Kiddie Academy
Kiddie Academy of Lodi provides educational childcare with a Life Essentials curriculum that balances academic preparation with character development. The center features highly qualified teachers with early childhood education credentials, low student-teacher ratios, and secure facilities with electronic entry systems. Their approach includes STEAM activities, literacy development, and social-emotional learning. The academy offers nutritious meals, indoor gym facilities, and age-appropriate playgrounds. Parents highlight the caring staff, clean environment, and strong educational foundation provided to children.
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The Goddard School of Hasbrouck Heights
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Hasbrouck Heights offers a play-based learning approach through their F.L.EX. program that encourages creativity and problem-solving. The school features highly educated faculty with ongoing professional development, secure facilities with surveillance systems, and comprehensive safety protocols. Their curriculum includes language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies integrated through thematic units. The facility includes multiple playgrounds, enrichment programs, and technology-integrated classrooms. Parents consistently rate this school highly for its educational quality, experienced staff, and excellent communication with families.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in South Hackensack, NJ
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in South Hackensack, NJ?
In South Hackensack and the surrounding Bergen County area, daycare costs are among the highest in New Jersey due to the region's proximity to New York City and high cost of living. For a full-time infant (under 18 months), you can expect to pay between $1,400 and $1,900 per month at a licensed center. For toddlers (18 months to 3 years), costs typically range from $1,200 to $1,600 per month. Home-based daycare programs (family childcare) may be slightly less expensive, often ranging from $900 to $1,400 monthly. It's important to note that these are base rates; additional fees for registration, supplies, or early/late pickup are common. We recommend contacting providers directly for their most current pricing and inquiring about any available sibling discounts.
How can I verify if a daycare in South Hackensack is properly licensed and check its inspection history?
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 history, you can use the official "Child Care Search" tool on the NJ DCF website. This public database allows you to search by provider name, location (including South Hackensack), or zip code (07606). The report will show the license status, capacity, ages served, and any serious violations or complaints from the last three years of inspections. You can also call the DCF Office of Licensing at 1-877-667-9845. Always ask to see a provider's current license during your tour.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in South Hackensack, and when should I start looking?
Yes, waitlists are a common challenge in South Hackensack and throughout Bergen County, especially for infant care spots, which have strict staff-to-child ratios. For highly sought-after centers, waitlists can be 6 to 12 months long, or even longer. It is strongly advised to begin your search and get on waitlists as early as possible—ideally during your second trimester of pregnancy if you are expecting. For toddler or preschool openings, starting your search 4-6 months in advance is recommended. When contacting centers, ask specific questions about their waitlist process: Is there a fee to join? How often is the list updated? How are spots offered (e.g., by date added or priority to siblings)?
What are some of the key differences between a daycare center and a family childcare home in South Hackensack?
The two main licensed options in South Hackensack offer distinct environments. **Licensed Childcare Centers** are facilities dedicated solely to childcare, often with multiple classrooms divided by age. They typically have more structured curricula, multiple staff members, and may offer amenities like dedicated playgrounds or commercial kitchens. They operate under strict state ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants). **Registered Family Childcare Homes** are run out of a provider's residence, serving a smaller group of children (up to 5, with conditions for more). They often provide a more home-like, mixed-age setting which can be beneficial for siblings, and may offer more flexible hours. Both are licensed by the state, but the scale, daily structure, and social environment differ significantly. Your choice will depend on your child's temperament and your family's needs for schedule and setting.
Does South Hackensack or Bergen County offer any financial assistance programs to help with childcare costs?
Yes, there are several programs that can help eligible families. The primary state program is **NJ Child Care Subsidy Program (formerly called Work First New Jersey)**, administered by the county. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and reason for care (work, school, etc.). You apply through the Bergen County Board of Social Services. Additionally, many daycare centers in the area participate in the **New Jersey Cares for Kids** program, which provides subsidies. Some employers in the region, particularly those in the corporate corridors near Routes 80 and 46, may offer Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) or other benefits. It's also worth asking individual providers if they offer any sliding scale fees or scholarships. For the most current information and application details, contact the Bergen County Board of Social Services directly.
Nearby Cities
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