The Best Preschools in Fort Dix, NJ
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Fort Dix. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst Child Development Center
Department of Defense
This Department of Defense-operated facility serves military families at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst with a comprehensive early childhood program. The center follows developmentally appropriate practices and maintains high safety standards with secure access. Curriculum focuses on school readiness through play-based learning, social-emotional development, and structured activities. Staff includes certified early childhood educators with specialized training in military family support. The facility features modern classrooms, outdoor play areas, and nutritional meal programs.
Programs Offered:
The Goddard School of Pemberton
Goddard Systems, Inc.
Located just minutes from Fort Dix, this nationally accredited preschool offers a play-based learning approach with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience). The school features purpose-built classrooms, secure entry systems, and outdoor learning environments. Curriculum emphasizes literacy, STEM, art, and social development. Highly qualified teachers maintain low student-teacher ratios. The facility includes dedicated art, music, and movement spaces, with enrichment programs in yoga, Spanish, and technology.
Programs Offered:
Kiddie Academy of Pemberton
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
This established educational childcare center serves the Fort Dix area with a comprehensive Life Essentials® curriculum that balances academic preparation with character development. The academy features secure facilities with keypad entry, age-appropriate learning centers, and outdoor playgrounds. Program includes technology integration, character education, and hands-on learning activities. Staff maintains state-required certifications with ongoing professional development. The center offers flexible scheduling options and maintains strong communication with families through digital platforms.
Programs Offered:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Fort Dix, NJ:
What are the typical costs for preschool in the Fort Dix, NJ area, and are there any financial assistance programs available?
In the Fort Dix area, monthly preschool tuition typically ranges from $800 to $1,200, depending on the program's hours and curriculum. Many local centers offer military discounts for families stationed at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst. Additionally, New Jersey's state-funded preschool programs and the federal Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) provide subsidies for eligible families, which you can apply for through the NJ Department of Human Services.
How do I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool near Fort Dix?
All licensed preschools in New Jersey must be regulated by the state's Department of Children and Families (DCF). You can verify a center's license and review any inspection reports online through the NJ DCF Child Care Search portal. For an added quality indicator, look for programs accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), which several centers in the surrounding Burlington County area have achieved.
What should I consider regarding location and commute when choosing a preschool as a military family at Fort Dix?
Given the potential for changing schedules and deployments, prioritize preschools with flexible hours and proximity to the base gates, such as in Pemberton or North Hanover. Many families find on-base childcare through Child Development Centers (CDCs) or Family Child Care (FCC) homes to be most convenient, but waitlists can be long, so apply early. Also, consider programs along your primary commute route to civilian employment if applicable.
Are there preschools in the area that offer specific curricula or approaches, like Montessori or play-based learning?
Yes, the communities surrounding Fort Dix offer a variety of approaches. You can find traditional play-based, faith-based, and academic preparatory programs. While classic Montessori schools are less common directly adjacent to the base, several can be found within a 20-30 minute drive in towns like Mount Holly or Bordentown. It's best to visit and ask how their daily schedule balances structured learning with free play.
What are the enrollment timelines and key paperwork needed for preschools near Fort Dix?
Enrollment timelines vary, but for a fall start, many popular programs begin their registration as early as January or February. Military families should immediately get on the waitlist for the on-base CDC. Key required documents typically include your child's immunization records (per NJ state law), a recent physical exam, proof of residency, and military ID (for base access). Always confirm specific requirements directly with the preschool.
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