The Best Daycare Centers in Stratford, NJ
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Stratford. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Stratford
The Learning Experience - Cherry Hill
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Cherry Hill serves the Stratford area with a comprehensive early childhood education program featuring proprietary curricula like L.E.A.P. (Learning Experience Academic Program). The center emphasizes both academic and social development through structured learning activities, character development programs, and advanced safety protocols. Features include secure entry systems, certified early childhood educators, age-appropriate learning environments, and nutritionally balanced meals. The facility maintains excellent staff-to-child ratios and offers flexible scheduling options for working families.
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Cadence Academy Preschool of Voorhees
Cadence Education
Cadence Academy Preschool serves Stratford families with a research-based curriculum that blends Montessori principles with structured academic preparation. The center features highly qualified teachers with early childhood certifications, comprehensive security systems including biometric entry, and developmentally appropriate learning centers. Their program includes Spanish language exposure, STEAM activities, and regular developmental assessments. The facility offers spacious indoor and outdoor play areas, nutritious meal programs, and emphasizes social-emotional learning alongside academic readiness.
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Kiddie Academy of Cherry Hill
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Cherry Hill provides educational childcare to Stratford residents through their Life Essentials® curriculum that focuses on character development, literacy, and STEM foundations. The center employs degreed early childhood educators and maintains low student-teacher ratios. Safety features include secured entry systems, comprehensive background checks, and emergency preparedness protocols. The academy offers technology-enhanced classrooms, structured learning activities, and regular parent communication through digital platforms. Their holistic approach balances academic preparation with social development and physical activity.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Stratford, NJ
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Stratford, NJ?
In Stratford, NJ, full-time daycare costs can vary significantly based on the type of facility. For center-based care, parents can expect to pay between $1,200 to $1,600 per month for an infant. Costs for toddlers are slightly lower, typically ranging from $1,000 to $1,400 per month. Licensed family daycare homes often offer more affordable rates, generally between $800 and $1,200 monthly. These prices are influenced by factors like staff-to-child ratios, curriculum, and facility amenities. It's important to note that Stratford, being in Camden County, may have access to state subsidy programs like New Jersey's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) for eligible families to help offset these costs.
How do I verify that a daycare in Stratford is properly licensed and what are New Jersey's key regulations?
All licensed childcare providers in New Jersey are regulated by the Department of Children and Families (DCF), Office of Licensing. You can verify a Stratford provider's license status and review any inspection reports by using the "Check Child Care License" search tool on the NJ DCF website. Key state regulations include: a staff-to-child ratio of 1:4 for infants (under 18 months), 1:6 for toddlers (18 months to 2.5 years), and 1:10 for preschoolers (2.5 to 6 years). All lead teachers must have a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential or equivalent, and providers must pass comprehensive background checks. Local Stratford providers must also comply with local health and safety ordinances.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Stratford, and when should I start looking?
Yes, due to high demand and limited slots, especially for infants, many reputable daycare centers in and around Stratford do maintain waitlists. It is highly recommended that expecting parents or families planning a return to work begin their search and tour facilities during the second trimester of pregnancy, or at least 6-9 months before their needed start date. Some of the more sought-after centers in the area may have waitlists exceeding a year for infant rooms. It's advisable to get on multiple lists (even if a deposit is required) and to check in periodically. Exploring licensed family childcare homes can also provide more immediate availability.
What are some of the specific enrichment or program options available at daycares in the Stratford area?
Daycares in Stratford often incorporate programs that leverage local resources and community partnerships. Many centers offer structured early learning curricula aligned with NJ's Preschool Teaching and Learning Standards. Specific enrichments can include: outdoor learning in local parks like James G. Atkinson Memorial Park, music and movement classes, introductory Spanish, and STEM activities. Some providers partner with the Stratford Public School District for smooth pre-K transitions. Given Stratford's location, several centers also organize seasonal activities and field trips appropriate for young children to nearby attractions like the Camden Children's Garden or the Garden State Discovery Museum.
What backup or alternative childcare options exist for Stratford parents if their regular daycare is closed?
Stratford parents have several options for backup care. First, some local daycare centers offer "drop-in" care on a space-available basis, though this often requires pre-registration. Second, networks of licensed family childcare providers in Camden County may have more flexible daily or weekly rates. Third, reputable national backup care services like Bright Horizons or local nanny agencies can provide in-home care, though this is a more expensive option. Additionally, parents can explore care cooperatives with other local families or utilize online platforms that vet sitters for short-term needs. It's crucial to vet any backup option with the same diligence as your primary care, ensuring they meet NJ state standards.