Choosing a daycare in New Jersey is one of the biggest decisions you will make as a parent. This checklist covers everything you should verify before enrolling — from licensing status to curriculum quality to gut-feel on your tour.
Before You Tour: Research Checklist
- Verify NJ DCF license — Search nj.gov/dcf to confirm the center is licensed and has no serious recent violations. This takes 2 minutes and is non-negotiable.
- Check Google reviews — Read the most recent 10-15 reviews. Look for patterns, not outliers. Pay attention to how (or whether) the owner responds to negative reviews.
- Confirm CCAP acceptance — If you may qualify for NJ childcare subsidies, confirm the center is an approved provider before you fall in love with it.
- Check hours vs. your schedule — Does the center open early enough and close late enough? What is the late pickup fee?
- Confirm age acceptance — Not all centers take infants. Confirm they serve your child’s age group before touring.
On Your Tour: What to Look For
- Are children visibly happy and engaged? — Trust your eyes. Happy, busy children are the best indicator of program quality.
- Is the environment clean and organized? — Not sterile, but clean. Toys should be age-appropriate and in good repair.
- Do staff interact warmly with children? — Watch how teachers talk to kids. Are they on the floor with them? Are they on their phones?
- Is there a real curriculum posted? — Look for lesson plans, weekly themes, or a curriculum board. If there is nothing, ask what children learn each day.
- Is the outdoor space safe? — Check the play area for hazards. Is there shade? Age-appropriate equipment?
- What does drop-off and pick-up look like? — Is there a secure entry system? Do they check IDs? What is the sign-out process?
Questions to Ask the Director
- What is the current staff-to-child ratio for my child’s age?
- What is your average staff tenure? How do you handle staff turnover?
- What curriculum do you use, and how is it implemented daily?
- How do you communicate with parents — app, daily sheets, or calls?
- What is your sick-child and illness exclusion policy?
- What happens if my child has an accident or injury?
- Are all staff CPR and first aid certified?
- Do you conduct background checks on all employees and volunteers?
- Can I visit unannounced once my child is enrolled?
- What is your policy on discipline? How do you handle challenging behavior?
Red Flags: Walk Away If You See These
- Staff on phones instead of engaging with children
- Director unable to tell you the current staff ratios
- No posted license or expired license
- Children sitting in front of screens for extended periods
- Strong unpleasant odors (signal of cleanliness issues)
- Staff who seem stressed, rushed, or unfriendly
- Reluctance to answer questions or let you see all rooms
- Serious violations on the NJ DCF inspection history
After the Tour: Final Checklist
- Did the director answer all your questions openly?
- Did you feel comfortable leaving your child there?
- Were the children you observed happy and engaged?
- Does the schedule work for your family?
- Did you understand the tuition, deposit, and payment terms?
- Do you know what documents are required for enrollment?
Enrollment Documents Typically Required in NJ
Most NJ licensed daycares require the following at enrollment:
- Child’s birth certificate
- Immunization records (NJ Schedule of Immunization Requirements)
- Physical exam form completed by pediatrician
- Emergency contact information
- Authorized pick-up list
- CCAP voucher or subsidy paperwork (if applicable)
- Enrollment contract and deposit payment
See our enrollment page for Little Einstein’s Academy specific requirements, or call us with any questions.
Ready to Tour Little Einstein’s Academy?
We welcome walk-in tours Monday through Friday, 9-11:30 AM and 3-5 PM at both our Edison and Roselle locations.
Edison: 334 Plainfield Ave, Edison, NJ 08817 — (732) 985-4700
Roselle: 528-530 E 2nd Ave, Roselle, NJ 07203 — (908) 241-6200
Schedule a Free Tour | See if You Qualify for Free Daycare
FAQ
How many daycares should I tour before choosing?
Tour at least 2-3. Seeing multiple centers gives you perspective and helps you trust your gut when one feels right.
What documents do I need for a NJ daycare tour?
Nothing for the tour itself — just show up. You will need the enrollment documents listed above once you decide to enroll.
How far in advance should I start looking for daycare in NJ?
Start 3-6 months before your target start date. Infant spots fill fastest. If you are pregnant, begin touring in your second trimester.
