The Best Preschools in Hillsdale, NJ
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Hillsdale. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
The Goddard School of Hillsdale
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Hillsdale is a highly-regarded early childhood education center offering play-based learning with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience). The school features state-of-the-art security systems, keypad entry, and comprehensive safety protocols. Their curriculum focuses on academic readiness, social-emotional development, and creative expression through dedicated learning zones including STEM labs and outdoor playgrounds. Teachers hold early childhood education degrees and receive ongoing professional development.
Programs Offered:
Kiddie Academy of Hillsdale
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Hillsdale provides comprehensive educational childcare with their Life Essentials® curriculum that balances academic preparation with character development. The facility features secure access systems, certified teachers, and age-appropriate learning environments. Their program includes technology integration, music and movement, and hands-on learning activities. The academy maintains small class sizes and emphasizes communication skills, problem-solving, and social development through structured and unstructured play experiences.
Programs Offered:
Bright Horizons at Westwood
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Westwood serves families throughout Bergen County, including Hillsdale residents, with their World at Their Fingers® curriculum that emphasizes emergent learning and project-based exploration. The center features secure facilities with comprehensive safety protocols, outdoor learning environments, and dedicated art and discovery areas. Their approach focuses on developing executive function skills, literacy, and STEM foundations through intentional teaching practices. The center maintains NAEYC accreditation and employs degreed early childhood educators with specialized training in developmental appropriate practices.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Hillsdale, NJ:
What is the average cost of preschool in Hillsdale, NJ, and are there any financial assistance programs available?
In Hillsdale, NJ, full-time preschool tuition typically ranges from $1,200 to $1,800 per month, depending on the program's philosophy and facilities. Some local centers may offer part-time options at a reduced rate. For financial assistance, you can inquire about need-based scholarships directly with individual schools and explore the New Jersey Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), which provides subsidies to eligible families in Bergen County.
How can I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in Hillsdale?
All licensed preschools in New Jersey, including those in Hillsdale, are regulated by the state's Department of Children and Families (DCF). You can verify a center's license and review any inspection reports through the DCF's online Child Care Search portal. Additionally, many high-quality programs in the area pursue voluntary accreditation from organizations like the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), which signifies a higher standard of care and education.
What are the typical enrollment timelines and "waitlist" situations for Hillsdale preschools?
Due to high demand in the area, many popular Hillsdale preschools begin their enrollment processes in January or February for the following September start. It is highly advisable to start your research and schedule tours the prior fall. It is common for well-regarded programs to have waitlists, so applying to multiple schools and submitting deposits promptly when offered a spot is a recommended strategy for local parents.
What types of preschool programs are most common in Hillsdale?
Hillsdale offers a mix of traditional, play-based, Montessori, and faith-based preschool programs. Many local parents also value the strong public school-integrated preschool programs offered by the Hillsdale Public School District, which include options for both typical and special needs learners. The town's community center and local churches also host popular cooperative and half-day programs that serve as an introduction to a structured setting.
What should I look for regarding safety and communication at a Hillsdale preschool?
Prioritize schools with secure, single-point entry systems, strict sign-in/out procedures, and clearly outlined emergency plans. Inquire about staff-to-child ratios (which in NJ are 1:10 for 2.5-year-olds and 1:12 for 4-year-olds) and background check policies. For communication, ask how the school provides daily updates (many use apps like Brightwheel) and the protocol for parent-teacher conferences, which are standard in Hillsdale's more structured programs.
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