Schools near West Caldwell, NJ

“Finding a school for your young child can be a stressful experience. You're entrusting people you may not know with taking care of your kid during some of their most formative years. Orchard School has been absolutely tremendous.We came to them after a negative experience at a chain daycare for our then-6-month-old. The difference was immediate - rather than crying when dropping her off, she would crawl to her teachers and wouldn't want to come home when we came to pick her up. Her growth since joining the 0-5 y/o class has been astonishing. We've enjoyed watching her become a part of the group - the older kids watch out for and play with the younger ones with a care that reminds us of siblings.The teachers do a great job combining play with educational enrichment activities, and the property has a delightful array of spaces for the kids to enjoy, ranging from a ball pit to a pool to mini-rooms with tiny furniture to a track for biking. The staff is super flexible and understanding; it feels like we have true partners in our child's care and understanding.The most important thing I have to say about Orchard is that its staff sees the kids for who they are. They understand each kid is an individual with their own personality and needs, and they do everything they can to encourage each child to be the best version of themself. Our daughter (now 18 months) is growing into a wonderful little person, and Orchard School has played a huge part.”

“I love this place it’s so colorful and vibrant with kids art work ,fun & learning activities for kids of all ages ..my daughter is 20months old she joined 5months ago in toddler class… her teachers Ms vira and Ms kirana are soo loving and caring she loves to go everyday happily carrying her school bag and says bye mommy when I drop her ? she loves to play ,dance with her friends .. the staff are super friendly, loving ..thanks to Ms Juliana and Ms Jen …I am confident that my baby is having good time with TLE learning experience by the way she learns and does the activities.. TLE is great place for kids to have fun and learning at same time …”

“The management team at Kindercare is absolutely the best! Ms Danielle, Ms Bianca, Ms Kimmy and Ms Barbara strive in providing a safe and happy environment for our children.”

“My twin girls started at New Generation Learning Center (NGLC) when they were 18 months old. After surveying several facilities this one by far proved to be the best!
The clean spacious rooms, on facility kitchen, fresh healthy meal options, 24x7 camera access, attentive as well as accessible staff makes this daycare facility unique.
Ms. Jamila Ylidiz, the current director of NGLC, is positive, enthusiastic and hardworking. She maintains a one on one relationship with the children and their parents. She is open to new suggestions and ensures they are promptly implemented. She along with her staff provides a safe, warm and nurturing environment for children’s growth.They have a wide range of exciting learning activities suitable for the all round development of a child’s personality.
We as parents are impressed with Ms Jamila’s efforts to raise the standards of NGLC. Her level of commitment and dedication is commendable. We couldn’t be happier.
Thank you for all that you do!”

“My kid currently attends Preschool Learn Time (prek 3) and is having the best time in school. She would always talk about her wonderful teacher, Ms. Ewa and all her friends. She always comes home feeling more confident each time and always surprises me with new words and even speaking in sentences. Because of PSL, she has become really good at tracing letters, knows her ABCs and numbers very well, and very social.We find PSL curriculum to be advanced and consistent. They care for their students and also encourage them to try new exciting things.We are very happy she attends Preschool Learn Time. We highly recommend it!”

“I have my 2 year old daughter at Mickey Academy and she’s been here for 9 months already and I can’t explain how happy I am to have my daughter taken care off at this place, the teachers are great, friendly and they truly care about your child! I’ve seen my daughter developed in so many ways, and most of it it’s all thanks to Mickey Academy! I will recommend this daycare to any parent, and God willing I would want my future kids at this place also!!”

“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!”

“We absolutely LOVE Gymboree!! I have been taking my daughter here since she was 4 months old and now she is 1. As a stay at home mom I wanted to join a class where my baby would be active, social and develop her skills. This place has been amazing for my daughter and myself as well. Big plus when I started in the babies class it was a great support system for me since you get to talk to other moms that might be going through the same thing and you don’t feel alone as a first time mom. We love going every week!! We started with Ms.Geri and we love her! We also go to class with Ms.Morgan as well and she is also great! We love our gymbo teachers and friends we made!!”

“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!”

“After researching and visiting many daycares in Wayne , I found Primrose to be the standout option. From the moment I scheduled a tour, I had the pleasure of meeting April, who was absolutely delightful and professional in every aspect of her role. The experience from start to finish was impressive. Unfortunately, my toddler fell ill and couldn’t continue attending. However, the response to this situation truly set Primrose apart. The owner personally reached out to express her care and took every step to address our concerns, which was deeply appreciated. Nicole, too, was very sweet and handled our situation with utmost professionalism. This level of care and attention has made me seriously reconsider Primrose for my little one in the future. Their compassionate and professional approach has left a lasting impression”

“My family and I have had the absolute pleasure of sending our children to PSA for the past four years, and I cannot say enough wonderful things about this incredible school. From the moment we first stepped through the doors, we knew we had found a nurturing and enriching environment for our kids.Located in the heart of Montclair, PSA is a true gem in the community. What sets this preschool apart is its unwavering commitment to the growth and development of every child who walks through its doors. It definitely fosters a family environment.The teachers and staff are exceptional. They treat every child with love, respect, and individualized attention. It's evident that they genuinely care about the well-being and success of each student.The school is always clean, secure, and well-maintained. We are very pleased with their response to the pandemic and sent our kids back with ease. Additionally, the classrooms are filled with age-appropriate toys, books, and materials that encourage exploration and creativity. My little ones loved the imagination play!If you are looking for a preschool that values your child's growth, happiness, and overall well-being, I wholeheartedly recommend Park Street Academy. It truly is a place where families become part of a loving and supportive community. Thank you, PSA, for four amazing years, and for laying the foundation for a lifetime of learning and success for our children.”

“If I could give Redbirds 10 stars I would! I am so thankful for the team at Lightbridge Whippany. I’m a first time mom and my daughter has been there for almost a year. My husband and I feel they are a very important part of my daughter’s care team. In my experience, these are people who really know their stuff when it comes to early childhood development. Their actions show that they truly care about the children’s outcomes. They give me great advice and ideas and I trust them wholeheartedly. I have camera access, but I really only watch to cheer myself up at work! My daughter is always smiling, dancing and learning. If I have questions or concerns I bring it up with them. I feel supported. Ms. Yvette has always been there for us from day one, and soon after Ms Juwell; both of these ladies helped us care for our daughter during a very challenging year for our family. We’re so happy to have Ms Bryanna now and we also love the Goldfish teachers, Ms Estrella, and everyone else who watches over our kiddo! It means so much to us that she is happy, cared for, and loves going to school.”

“This daycare is clean and provides a positive space for our child. I've been most impressed with the preschool curriculum. My daughter is reading beyond sight words because her teacher's have given her the foundational steps to sound out words. Their patience and work with my daughter has given her confidence with reading I couldn't imagine. She is well prepared for kindergarten and I couldn't be happier.”

“We absolutely LOVE KinderCare Whippany. Our daughter is so happy there! The teachers are incredible and they have amazing lesson plans for the children. It’s safe, clean, and organized. Highly recommend!”

“My 2 year old started going to this school this year and he loves it, I am really happy with the outcome that I started to see in my child he’s learning colors counting ABC, the teachers are amazing and the staff from the main office are so nice!! I love it I’m so glad my son had the opportunity to get into this school ??!!”

“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.”

“Jennifer runs this place with SO MUCH care and attention.. she puts in 1,000% every single day in making sure the children are cared for and attended to in every situation. All the staff members that I've met are wonderful beyond expectation. Rebecca, especially has been so kind and helpful on numerous occasions. I can't thank everyone enough!”

“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!!”

“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 !”

“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 love Lightbridge Academy!! My daughter will be three and my son is one and we've been g attending Lightbridge since my daughter has been born. The staff is incredible and so caring for my children. I wouldn't send my kids anywhere else!!! Highly recommend this daycare”

“Absolutely love this daycare! The curriculum is fun and educational! The teachers are loving and caring. The owners are just as involved as the teachers and they are so nice! If you are looking for a preschool I would highly recommend sending your child! Couldn’t have brought my son to a better preschool! They will not disappoint!”

“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!”

“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!”

“Both my kids enrolled here and they went to super talkative from non verbs It is so great to trust Goddard family I know that my kids there are safe and teachers will do their best for them in all aspects”

“Our experience at TLE Roseland has been so amazing! As a first time mom starting your child at daycare at 4 months is scary. The staff at TLE from the admin team, owners, and her teachers Miss Nydia and Miss Marcie have really made this transition so easy. Our daughter is always happy to see her teachers in the morning and it has really created a positive space for her to spend her time playing and socializing. They do a wonderful job of focusing and working on development and encouraging them to meet their milestones. I am excited to watch her grow and continue to thrive in their care.”

“My 19mo has been attending Cresthill in East Hanover since he was 11mo, starting in the infant class then moved to one of the toddler rooms once he started walking. Everyday he wakes up and goes to our front door, saying let’s go school! He loves his teachers and all the activities they provide (and I love getting pictures of what he accomplished each day). He comes home having learned new words, concepts, dances, etc. constantly. The director and assistant director are so accommodating and easy to work with. As a mom that works a full-time job, it was not easy deciding where my child would spend the majority of his week. I’m so thankful to have found a place where I can feel confident he’s taken care of when dropping him off every morning! 10/10 highly recommend.Bonus: they offer military discount for those in service :)”