The Best Preschools in Glen Ridge, NJ
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Glen Ridge. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
The Ridge Street Cooperative School
Independent Cooperative Preschool
The Ridge Street Cooperative School is a highly regarded parent-run cooperative preschool that has served the Glen Ridge community for over six decades. The school emphasizes play-based learning, social development, and hands-on experiences in a nurturing environment. Parents actively participate in the classroom, creating a strong community bond. The curriculum focuses on developing early literacy, math, and social skills through creative play and structured activities. The school maintains excellent teacher-to-student ratios and has earned outstanding parent satisfaction ratings for its personalized approach to early childhood education.
Programs Offered:
The Goddard School
Goddard Systems, Inc.
Located just minutes from Glen Ridge in neighboring Bloomfield, The Goddard School offers a comprehensive early childhood education program serving families throughout the area. The facility features a F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic readiness with social-emotional development. The school maintains high safety standards, employs degreed teachers, and provides modern classrooms with age-appropriate learning materials. Parents consistently praise the school's communication, curriculum quality, and the professional development of their teaching staff, making it a popular choice for Glen Ridge families.
Programs Offered:
Rainbow Montessori School
Independent Montessori School
Rainbow Montessori School provides authentic Montessori education in the heart of Glen Ridge, serving children from toddler through kindergarten age. The school features certified Montessori teachers, carefully prepared classrooms with traditional Montessori materials, and a curriculum that emphasizes independence, practical life skills, and individualized learning. The school maintains small class sizes and mixed-age groupings typical of Montessori education. Parents consistently report excellent academic preparation and social development outcomes, with many noting the school's peaceful, focused learning environment and highly qualified teaching staff.
Programs Offered:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Glen Ridge, NJ:
What is the typical cost of preschool in Glen Ridge, NJ, and are there any local financial assistance options?
In Glen Ridge, monthly preschool tuition typically ranges from $1,200 to $2,000, depending on the program's hours, curriculum, and facilities. While the borough itself does not offer direct subsidies, many local preschools offer sibling discounts or flexible payment plans. It's also worth checking if you qualify for New Jersey's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), which can be used at state-approved providers in the area.
How do I evaluate the quality and licensing of preschools in Glen Ridge?
First, ensure any preschool you consider is licensed by the New Jersey Department of Children and Families (DCF), which mandates health, safety, and staff qualification standards. You can also look for programs accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), a mark of high quality. For local insight, schedule tours, ask about teacher tenure and student-to-teacher ratios, and speak with other Glen Ridge parents about their experiences.
What are the main types of preschool programs available in Glen Ridge?
Glen Ridge offers a mix of private, faith-based, and cooperative preschools. You'll find programs emphasizing play-based learning, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, and more traditional academic preparatory curriculums. The Glen Ridge Public Schools district also offers a special education preschool program for eligible children. Your choice will depend on your child's temperament and your educational philosophy.
When should I start applying for preschools in Glen Ridge, and what is the enrollment process like?
Due to high demand, you should begin researching and touring preschools a full year before your desired start date, with many applications opening in January for the following September. The process typically involves a tour, application submission, and sometimes a brief child visit or parent interview. Some popular local schools maintain waitlists, so early action is strongly recommended.
Are there preschools in Glen Ridge that offer extended hours or summer programs to accommodate working parents?
Yes, several preschools in and around Glen Ridge offer extended daycare hours before and after the standard preschool session, often from 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM. Many also provide summer camp programs for preschoolers, which can be a great continuity of care. Be sure to inquire about these options and their associated costs during your initial tours, as availability and structure vary by school.
Nearby Cities
Explore preschools in cities near Glen Ridge:
Looking for More Options?
Explore preschools in other cities across New Jersey or search our full directory of early learning centers nationwide.