The Best Preschools in Garwood, NJ
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Garwood. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
The Goddard School of Garwood
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Garwood is a highly-regarded early childhood education center offering a play-based learning approach with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience). The facility features modern classrooms, secure entry systems, and outdoor play areas. Their curriculum focuses on academic readiness, social development, and creative expression, with all teachers holding degrees in early childhood education or related fields. The school maintains excellent safety protocols and has consistently high parent satisfaction ratings for its nurturing environment and comprehensive educational programming.
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Kiddie Academy of Westfield
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Located just minutes from Garwood in neighboring Westfield, Kiddie Academy provides comprehensive early education through their Life Essentials® curriculum. The academy emphasizes character development, literacy, and STEM activities in a safe, technology-enhanced environment. The facility features age-appropriate learning centers, secure monitoring systems, and qualified teachers with early childhood certifications. Parents consistently praise the academy's communication, clean facilities, and the developmental progress children make through their structured yet flexible learning approach.
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The Community Montessori School
Independent Montessori School
The Community Montessori School offers authentic Montessori education serving families throughout Union County, including Garwood residents. The school features certified Montessori teachers, carefully prepared classroom environments, and individualized learning plans. Their program emphasizes independence, practical life skills, and academic foundation through hands-on Montessori materials. The school maintains small class sizes with low student-teacher ratios and has earned exceptional reviews for its peaceful learning environment and the strong academic preparation children receive for elementary school.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Garwood, NJ:
What is the average cost of preschool in Garwood, NJ, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Garwood, monthly preschool tuition typically ranges from $800 to $1,200, depending on the program's hours and curriculum. While Garwood itself does not have a universal public preschool program, you can apply for New Jersey's Child Care Subsidy Program (NJ Cares for Kids) if you qualify based on income. Additionally, some local private centers may offer sibling discounts or limited scholarship opportunities.
How can I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in Garwood?
All licensed preschools in New Jersey, including those in Garwood, are regulated by the NJ Department of Children and Families (DCF). You can search for a specific center's licensing history and any violations on the DCF website. For quality indicators, look for programs accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) or those participating in New Jersey's Grow NJ Kids quality rating system.
What are the typical enrollment timelines and age cut-offs for Garwood preschools?
Most Garwood preschools follow a September start aligned with the school district calendar, with registration opening as early as January or February for the fall. The common age requirement is for children to be 3 or 4 years old by October 1st of the enrollment year, though some programs may accept 2.5-year-olds. Due to limited spots, especially for popular programs, early inquiry and registration are strongly recommended.
Are there preschool options in Garwood that offer extended hours for working parents?
Yes, several private preschools and daycare centers in and around Garwood offer extended care, often from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM, to accommodate working parents. These are typically full-day programs, as opposed to part-day nursery school models. It's important to confirm specific hours, as they vary by provider, and inquire about additional costs for early drop-off or late pick-up.
What types of preschool programs are available in Garwood, and how do I choose?
Garwood offers a mix of private preschools, faith-based programs (often at local churches), and Montessori-inspired schools. Your choice should depend on your child's needs and your family's values; consider visiting to observe the teaching philosophy, classroom environment, and play-to-instruction balance. Given Garwood's small size, many families also consider highly-regarded programs in neighboring towns like Westfield and Cranford, so expanding your search radius is a common practice.
Nearby Cities
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