The Best Daycare Centers in Washington, NJ
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Washington. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Washington
The Learning Experience - Washington Township
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Washington Township offers a comprehensive early childhood education program with proprietary L.E.A.P. curriculum that focuses on both academic and social development. The center features state-of-the-art security systems including keypad entry and surveillance cameras, along with highly qualified teachers who receive ongoing professional development. Their programs include phonics, foreign language introduction, manners and etiquette, and fitness activities. The facility includes age-appropriate classrooms, indoor play areas, and outdoor playgrounds designed for different age groups. Parents particularly praise the consistent communication through daily reports and the center's clean, organized environment.
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Kiddie Academy of Hackettstown
Kiddie Academy
Kiddie Academy of Hackettstown serves the Washington area with their Life Essentials curriculum that emphasizes character development, STEM learning, and literacy. The center maintains low student-to-teacher ratios and employs degreed early childhood educators. Their safety protocols include secure entry systems, comprehensive background checks for staff, and regular safety drills. The academy features modern classrooms with natural lighting, age-appropriate learning centers, and outdoor nature-inspired play spaces. The nutrition program provides balanced meals and snacks. Parents consistently highlight the warm, nurturing environment and the strong academic preparation children receive for kindergarten.
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The Goddard School of Washington
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Washington provides a play-based learning approach through their F.L.EX. (Fun Learning Experience) program that balances academic readiness with social-emotional development. The school features highly educated teachers with bachelor's or associate degrees in early childhood education, and maintains small class sizes for individualized attention. Their facility includes multiple playgrounds, a dedicated art studio, and technology-enhanced learning spaces. The curriculum incorporates literacy, mathematics, science, and creative arts while emphasizing problem-solving and critical thinking skills. Health and safety measures include rigorous cleaning protocols, secure access systems, and comprehensive staff training. Parents appreciate the school's strong communication and the visible progress children make in their development.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Washington, NJ
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Washington, New Jersey, and how can I verify a facility's status?
In Washington, New Jersey, all childcare centers and family childcare homes must be licensed by the New Jersey Department of Children and Families (DCF), Office of Licensing. These regulations cover staff-to-child ratios, staff qualifications (including background checks and training in CPR/first aid), health and safety standards, and facility requirements. To verify a provider's license status, you can use the NJ DCF's "Child Care Search" tool online or contact the Office of Licensing directly. It's crucial to ensure any provider you consider is in good standing, as this is your primary assurance of meeting state-mandated safety and quality benchmarks.
What is the average cost of full-time infant daycare in Washington, NJ, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Washington (Warren County), the average cost for full-time infant daycare typically ranges from $1,100 to $1,500 per month, though prices can vary based on the center's amenities, curriculum, and staff credentials. For financial assistance, New Jersey families can apply for the state's Child Care Subsidy Program (often called "child care assistance") through the Department of Human Services. Eligibility is based on income, work/training status, and family size. Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts. It's recommended to contact the Warren County Social Services agency for guidance on local application processes and to inquire directly with providers about any private assistance options.
How long are waitlists for reputable daycare centers in Washington, NJ, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Waitlists for highly-regarded daycare centers in Washington, NJ, can be significant, especially for infant and toddler rooms. It's not uncommon for families to wait 6 to 12 months, or even longer. To improve your chances, start your search during pregnancy or as early as possible. Contact multiple centers to get on their lists, and be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist fee. Follow up politely every few months to confirm your spot. Also, consider expanding your search to nearby towns like Hackettstown or Phillipsburg, and explore licensed family childcare homes, which often have shorter wait times and can provide a more intimate setting.
What types of childcare options are most commonly available in Washington, NJ, besides large daycare centers?
Beyond traditional daycare centers, Washington, NJ, offers several alternative childcare options. Licensed Family Child Care Homes are popular, where care is provided in a provider's residence for a smaller group of children, often with more flexible hours. There are also preschool programs, often affiliated with churches or community organizations, that may offer part-day options for children ages 3-5. For school-age children, before and after-school care programs are available through the local Washington Borough School District or private organizations. For more flexible or occasional needs, you can search for registered babysitters or nannies through local networks or online care platforms, ensuring they have undergone background checks.
Are there any unique seasonal or community-based childcare resources available to parents in Washington, NJ?
Yes, Washington, NJ, and the surrounding Warren County area offer several community resources. The Washington Borough Recreation Department often runs seasonal camps and programs during school breaks and summer, which can provide childcare for school-age children. The Warren County Community College may offer parenting workshops or occasional children's programs. Additionally, local churches and organizations like the YMCA (with branches in nearby Hackettstown/Phillipsburg) frequently host parents' day out programs, vacation camps, and early enrichment classes. For the most current listings, check the community bulletin boards at the Washington Public Library, the municipal website, and local Facebook parenting groups specific to Warren County.