The Best Daycare Centers in Tenafly, NJ
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Tenafly. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Tenafly
The Goddard School of Tenafly
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Tenafly 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-licensed teachers hold degrees in early childhood education and receive ongoing professional development. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. Curriculum includes STEAM learning, language development, and character education. Parents appreciate the daily communication through the Goddard mobile app and the school's focus on individualized learning plans for each child.
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Bright Horizons at Englewood
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Englewood serves families throughout Bergen County including Tenafly with their World at Their Fingertips curriculum that emphasizes emergent learning and project-based activities. The center features secure facilities with coded entry, dedicated age-based learning environments, and outdoor nature exploration spaces. Their teachers typically hold bachelor's degrees in education and maintain low teacher-to-child ratios. The program includes Spanish language exposure, literacy development, and STEM activities. Parents consistently praise the center's professional staff, comprehensive safety protocols, and the way children develop strong foundational skills for elementary school.
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Kiddie Academy of Fort Lee
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Fort Lee provides educational childcare with their Life Essentials® curriculum that focuses on character development, literacy, and hands-on learning experiences. The center features secure electronic entry, modern classrooms with interactive technology, and outdoor playgrounds designed for different age groups. Certified teachers implement developmentally appropriate practices and maintain detailed progress reports for each child. The program includes meal service with nutritionally balanced options, regular parent-teacher conferences, and enrichment activities like music and movement. Families from Tenafly appreciate the consistent communication, structured learning environment, and the academy's commitment to preparing children for academic success.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Tenafly, NJ
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Tenafly, NJ, and what factors influence the price?
In Tenafly, the average cost for full-time infant daycare typically ranges from $1,800 to $2,400 per month. For toddlers, it's slightly lower, averaging $1,600 to $2,200 per month. These prices are higher than the New Jersey state average, reflecting Tenafly's desirable location in Bergen County, higher cost of living, and the quality of local programs. Factors influencing cost include the type of facility (corporate chain vs. private, in-home), staff-to-child ratios, the inclusion of enrichment programs (like foreign language or music), and whether meals and snacks are provided. Many centers in Tenafly also require an annual registration or materials fee, which can add several hundred dollars.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Tenafly, and when should I start my search?
Yes, waitlists for reputable daycare centers and preschools in Tenafly are common and can be quite long, especially for infant spots. It is strongly recommended that parents begin their search and tour facilities during the second trimester of pregnancy, if not earlier. Many popular centers have waitlists that extend 9 to 12 months. For a September start (a common intake period aligned with the school year), you should aim to apply by the preceding January or February. It's advisable to get on multiple waitlists and maintain communication with the centers. Some in-home family childcare providers may have more immediate availability but still require early inquiry.
What are the key state licensing requirements I should verify for a daycare in Tenafly?
All licensed childcare centers in Tenafly must comply with New Jersey's strict Department of Children and Families (DCF) Office of Licensing regulations. Key requirements to verify include: staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants under 18 months), comprehensive background checks (fingerprinting and child abuse record checks) for all staff, mandatory annual training in health, safety, and development, and proper facility safety inspections. Centers must also have written policies on health exclusion, emergency procedures, and parent access. You can verify a facility's license status and view any past violations on the NJ DCF Child Care Search website. Tenafly centers generally maintain high compliance standards.
What types of childcare options are most commonly available in Tenafly besides traditional daycare centers?
Beyond corporate and private daycare centers, Tenafly offers several alternative options. These include licensed family childcare homes (smaller, home-based settings often with mixed-age groups), part-time preschool programs (common for children 2.5 years and older, often running 9 AM-12 PM or 1 PM), and nanny shares (where two families hire one nanny, a popular option in local neighborhoods). Additionally, several local community organizations and religious institutions offer nursery school and early education programs. For school-age children, the Tenafly Public School District and local organizations like the Tenafly Nature Center provide after-school care and enrichment programs.
How does the local school district calendar and infrastructure affect childcare needs in Tenafly?
The Tenafly Public School District's schedule significantly impacts childcare planning. The district offers full-day kindergarten, but for younger children, parents often need to bridge gaps between preschool hours (which are often shorter) and work schedules. Many daycare centers offer "wrap-around" care to cover these hours. Furthermore, school closures for holidays, professional development days, and summer break create a demand for camps and holiday care programs. Local daycare centers, the Tenafly Community Center, and private organizations typically offer seasonal camps. Proximity to schools is also a factor, with many parents preferring childcare providers located near their home or along their commute route to simplify drop-off and pick-up.