Schools near Cranford, NJ

“Sending your child to daycare has to be the scariest decision you could make, especially at 6 months old. Before sending my daughter to Lightbridge we had toured other places as well - Lightbridge was the most responsive, accommodating, supportive. My daughter is in the young infants class for about 6 months now and the comfort I feel while she’s there is amazing. As a working mom it’s hard to work and worry about your child’s day to day needs are being fulfilled but I know with Lightbridge I have nothing to worry about. The young infant teachers are all amazing, Ms Destiny is my daughter’s primary teacher and God bless her because she really goes beyond the expectations of her. I never ever had an issue with communication-can always contact them for anything literally, the cameras are a great plus especially for a nervous mom like me, they set your child up with a great schedule to prepare them for setting up, most importantly they treat every child as an individual and understand their personality and need on an Individual basis. My daughter will be going to Lightbridge for a very long time and that makes me so happy as I know her growth will skyrocket here!”

“I’ve seen a clear improvement in my daughter’s executive functions while taking these classes. She has had to plan ahead to set aside time to get homework and practice done. Great way to practice accountability and personal responsibility. Miss Maria is so patient and an excellent teacher!”

“We as well as out two daughters had a great experience using the services at TLE Piscataway. Teachers and the staff were friendly and genuinely cared about the kids. Their Pre-K class and infant class were lead by amazing teachers who made a memorable experience for our daughters. Thank you TLE!”

“My son has been attending Lightbridge Academy since he was a year and a half old. This is his second home for the past 3 years. All his teachers and the administrators are outstanding. I can say that he has grown and learned a lot here.Like any parent, I was initially apprehensive about sending my young child to a daycare facility. But that was quickly alleviated. The center’s director and all the staff including the teachers are very attentive and caring. And the daily updates/feedback with photos, videos on their app also helps when you send your child to a new place.Overall, I would definitely recommend the Lightbridge academy at Edison.”

“Updating 12/23 to add that my daughter is now in her second year at Playhouse and continues to thrive. She has learned so much about how to treat others kindly and express herself constructively. I continue to marvel at the clever teaching methods. For example, they recently did a unit on germs and painted the kids hands with glitter so they could see how the glitter/germs spread around the room as they played.2/23: I am picky about daycares and preschools - most seem to be fine, but not amazing. Playhouse is one of those rare schools that is amazing and we feel so lucky to have found it. Our daughter is thriving - she loves going and she is engaged with the various activities. Every staff member is lovely and wonderful - they create a safe and supportive environment and they do such creative and incredible things with the kids. They have a great library for the teachers to pull from and I so appreciate my daughter's exposure to things (like her class pet) that she otherwise wouldn't be. Highly recommend!”

“This preschool is a absolute gem; we feel so lucky to have found it! Both of my kids attended from 2019-2023. The school (which has been open in Millburn for over ONE HUNDRED years) is still set in the original Victorian house on Taylor Street. There are only 2 classes--3's and 4's--so it is super small and intimate, and because of this, a very close-knit and friendly parent community.They have an amazing playground which backs up to the Millburn community garden. The school owns 3 large plots in the garden and they include it in the curriculum. So the kids get to plant seeds (which they also use for counting & math), watch & learn about the different stages of growth throughout the seasons (science/STEM), and best of all, harvest & eat the fruits & veggies they grow! The school is very tied in with the town, including field trips to the local fire station, the local farmers market (goes with the garden curriculum), and Paper Mill Playhouse.The head teachers and assistant teachers have all been there for 15-25 years I believe, which speaks volumes about the school. They are nurturing, kind, fun, and truly great at what they do. They also make good company at the school happy hours :)The other major selling point of the school for us was the flexible hours. Kids can attend half day, half day + lunch, or full day, anywhere from once a week to 5 days- you customize the schedule. I have never seen another school offer this. This year for the first time they also offered aftercare as yet another option. And of course they have summer camp too.Between my 2 kids and moving around we have attended 4 different schools/daycares in the area, but Neighborhood House is our absolute favorite, hands down.”

“Love Lightbridge Academy...as does my son! So, it's a wordy write-up:

As a parent who has experienced the Lightbridge Academy in Millburn from the infant room through the 3-year-old program, I'm thrilled to share our overwhelmingly positive experience with this exceptional childcare center.

From the moment you step into Lightbridge Academy, you're greeted with warmth and enthusiasm that immediately puts both parents and children at ease.

The staff's attentiveness and genuine care for each child is evident in every interaction. They take the time to get to know each family, understanding the unique needs and personalities of every little one in their care.

The center's rich array of activities and engaging curriculum is truly impressive. Every day brings new adventures and learning opportunities for the children. From sensory play for the infants to imaginative storytelling sessions for the toddlers, and interactive STEAM activities for the preschoolers, Lightbridge Academy ensures that each child's curiosity is nurtured and their developmental needs are met.

Safety is clearly a top priority at Lightbridge Academy. The secure facility, stringent health protocols, and vigilant staff provide parents with peace of mind, knowing our children are in safe hands. The teachers and caregivers are not just attentive but proactive in ensuring the well-being of every child. We are constantly updated and never find ourselves wondering about anything. I truly appreciate the communication and effort to keep us updated.

What sets Lightbridge Academy apart is its exceptional leadership and management. The center runs like a well-oiled machine, with clear communication, consistent policies, and a commitment to continuous improvement. Parents are kept in the loop through regular updates, newsletters, and an easy-to-use app that provides real-time information about their child's day.

The classrooms are vibrant, colorful spaces that spark imagination and creativity. From the cozy reading nooks to the bustling art corners, every area is thoughtfully designed to encourage exploration and learning. The outdoor play area is a particular highlight, offering a safe space for children to burn off energy and develop their gross motor skills.

One of the most heartwarming aspects of Lightbridge Academy is the sense of community it fosters. The center organizes family events, holidays, Mothers Day, Fathers Day and opportunities for families to connect, creating a supportive network that extends beyond the classroom walls.

As parents, we've been incredibly grateful for the journey we've experienced at Lightbridge Academy. Watching our child grow from a tiny infant to a confident, curious 3-year-old has been a joy, made all the more special by the dedicated team at in every room.

The emotional support, educational guidance, and nurturing environment have been invaluable in our child's development. THANK YOU! ?

If I really had to think up some cons, here they are:

Parking is sometimes tricky so take time to figure out how things work and when the crossfit athletes are going to dart out of the gym in front of your car. Yikes!

If you have more than one kid daycare gets expensive.

We've had a few experiences with two other day cares in the area and hands down, love Lightbridge, the staff and Ms. Elizabeth and Ms. Nazu!”

“My daughter loves going to Small Blessings. Teachers and Director are very helpful and updates me her activities. She is excited saying and shows me what she did in school every day.”

“The Learning Experience in Livingston is a fantastic learning environment for all kids from infants to preschool! Our family has had the pleasure of sending both of our kids to The Learning Experience in Livingston, and we couldn't be happier with our choice. The teachers are exceptional - they're caring, attentive, and truly invested in each children’s development. The atmosphere at the daycare is warm, welcoming, and conducive to learning. Our kids have flourished here, both academically and socially. We highly recommend The Learning Experience in Livingston to any parent looking for a nurturing and enriching environment for their little ones!”

“I can say that I was extremely nervous to step into a classroom setting for the very first time. I wondered if I would be a good fit and if I had anything valuable to give growing and impressionable future leaders. When I started Primrose, I was taken in immediately as if I’ve always been there. I appreciate that administration and the teachers were so patient and understanding with me being new to a classroom setting. Before you knew it, I felt like I could take on any classroom or situation with the same grace and encouragement that I received from Primrose. I will always remember everything and I will always appreciate Primrose, so thank you for the experience and thank you for making me feel included.”

“I'm delighted to recommend RLDCC. My child has been attending for almost a year now and we couldn't be happier. The teachers, staff and principal are amazing, communicative and caring. There's a lot of communication with families and they are always open to talk and receive families with open arms. They provide 2 meals and a snack, always healthy and nutritious options. The curriculum is extensive and varied, and it is adjusted to the kids needs and likes. My kid has learned a lot, but most importantly has fun and enjoys spending time at RLDCC. I personally love the fact that there's little "technology" involved, it makes the kids' experience more authentic, hands-on and involved. We love RLDCC!”

“We have had 2 kids at Clark Kindercare and both have been equally happy there. We have been fortunate to have teachers that really care about our kids and treat them like their own. They have a variety of enrichment programs for the kids to participate in and you can’t beat the hours. We are lucky to have them as part of our “village”.”

“Brainiacs child care center has a phenomenal loving and caring staff and director . They cater to the needs of my child without hesitation! I have no concern when leaving my child in their care ! I know he is going to be taken very good care of ! The teachers are always loving and welcoming ! I wouldn’t trade this center in for anything else ! I HIGHLY recommend this center above ANYTHING ELSE !”

“I truly can’t say enough great things about marigold academy (formerly education station) in Bloomfield. It is such a special, well-rounded daycare with amazing, caring staff, exceptional + big outdoor playground space/toys, and tons of learning and toys inside. I was absolutely blown away with how much my child learned there and felt it was the perfect mix of play + lots of educational learning. My child absolutely thrived at marigold academy and we were SO sad to leave due to moving out of town. The child to teacher ratios are also amazing and small- much better than most other daycares. The staff does so many fun things to keep kids smiling and having fun such as weekly music class, holiday decorations and music, yoga, outdoor play, water play in the summer, etc. I love this place and recommend it so highly!!”

“Our son has been attending Apple Montessori since July. He started with summer camp, later continued with the school year.Its always wonderful to see our son eager to go to preschool in the morning. Staff are great, take lot of effort to keep the kids engaged with various activities, setting a solid foundation for his academic life. We also noticed huge difference in social skills, vocabulary since he joined Apple. We highly recommend Apple for anyone looking for preschool in Metuchen area.”

“I can’t speak highly enough of this school. The teachers and staff are caring, attentive, creative and fun. The school is safe, clean and puts my mind at ease knowing my 15 month old daughter is in their care. My now 7 year old attended preschool here and it still feels like a family after all these years. The staff are the same, which speaks for the atmosphere and support they are given by the thoughtful and highly knowledgeable owners.”

“When we moved to Scotch Plains, the first thing I thought about was a language immersion program. Jump Immersion has been so great to our son! Amazing teachers and Miss Leyla always has a smile to greet us. Thank you!”

“We are absolutely thrilled with MELC! The teachers are warm, caring, and genuinely invested in our four-year-old's development. We are very happy to see our child making significant strides socially and academically. The location is highly convenient too. We're in GR and it takes less than four minutes to get to. We wholeheartedly recommend MELC to parents seeking a nurturing and academically enriching environment for their kids.”

“We absolutely love the Goddard School of West Orange! Our oldest has been there since they opened and has learned a great deal. We are fully confident she will be very well prepared for kindergarten in the fall! Our second child has also been there for a year and half and is doing amazing. Not only have both of our children learned a great deal and have developed excellent social skills but they are truly loved by all of the teachers/staff at the school. It feels like a family and we couldn't be happier with our experience at Goddard West Orange!”

“Lightbridge Academy Iselin has become part of our family. Our family was very nervous in putting my 6 month old colicky baby into daycare. Within just a short period of time, we realized this was the best decision for my daughter. My daughter is now a year and three months old and she's learned so much. She is very verbal, loves to play and has excelled in every milestone. Ms. Kelly, Ms. Jenn, Ms. Sobina and Ms. Sangita really are the absolute best. I am known to voice my concerns but anything that comes up, the staff quickly answers and assures me things will be handled and addressed. I'm very thankful my little one attends Lightbridge, can't wait to see what the future holds.”

“My daughter has been attending previous gems since she was 18 months. She loves all her teachers and has made tremendous progress. They focus on life skills and academics teaching children numbers, words, writing skills, counting and more. My daughter is safe, happy and thriving eroding all my worries.”

“We sent both our sons to the Goddard School for 8 years and could not have loved it more. The teachers and facilities were wonderful and my children grew so much during their time there. I highly recommend it for anyone needing a school for their children.”

“Great place for your children to learn and grow! Great staff! Loving and caring. Special thank you to Rene, Chris , Anna and Daisy. They make it feel like family ”

“Gingham Giraffe is a wonderful preschool and now has a full day Kindergarten program. We are so impressed with the program, teachers and curriculum. Our children are receiving a well-rounded school experience.”

“My girls have been at Applecore for the past school year and have had a wonderful experience. Everyone who works there cares so much about the kids, and my girls say "yay" every morning when they ask if it's a school day and it is!”

“Westminster Nursery School has been such a welcoming and nurturing environment for my family since 2018. I can not say enough good things about the teachers and staff. My children absolutely love their teachers and have thrived at Westminster, having learned essential social skills and more importantly, having fun learning! I highly recommend this program!”

“I cannot express enough how grateful I am for the outstanding care my child receives at Little Genius Academy. From the moment we walked in 2019, we felt welcomed and reassured that we had made the right choice for our little one.The staff at LGA are a group of dedicated and caring professionals who go above and beyond to create a safe and nurturing environment. Their genuine love for children is evident in every interaction, and it's clear that they prioritize the well-being and happiness of each child in their care.The facility itself is clean, organized, and well-equipped with age-appropriate toys and learning materials.Communication is key for us as parents, and LGA excels in keeping us informed about our child's daily activities, milestones, and any concerns. The regular updates and open lines of communication have fostered a strong sense of trust between us and the daycare team.What sets LGA apart is the personal touch they bring to childcare. Birthdays are celebrated, achievements are acknowledged, and there's a genuine sense of community among the families. It truly feels like an extended family, and that sense of connection is invaluable.I highly recommend LGA to any parent seeking a nurturing and enriching environment for their child. Our family is grateful to have found such a wonderful daycare, and we are confident that our child is in the best hands. Thank you, LGA, for making a positive impact on our child's early years!”

“My kids love it ! They been here for over 5 years. I’m very grateful for the TLE staff and everything they have taught my kids. They have a very clean facility and are very attentive with the kids. Definitely recommend any new family into the TLE.”