How do I go about finding reputable nursery schools in NJ and when should I be looking?

DD is 13 months. The ladies in my Moms group are mostly Jewish and I am not, and we're not really religious at all, so I would like to send her to a non-religious school. But, we have only lived here 2 years and I don't know the first step to finding out about a good nursery school in the area. We're in NJ, so I know I can't get any recommendations from you ladies since you're mostly from LI, but I'm hoping to get suggestions on how to start looking??

When do MOST kids start nursery school and when should I have her signed up?

TIA!

Re: How do I go about finding reputable nursery schools in NJ and when should I be looking?

I really think word of mouth is the best way--especially since you have mom friends already.

It seems the majority of kids start school at age 3. I noticed the school I wanted to send DD to had a 1 day a week 2 year old program and then nursery for 3s and Pre-K for 4s. I asked my cousin if the 2 year old program was worth it (since my DH was dead-set against it) and she said absolutely because I would never get into the nursery program if I didn't enroll her in the 2s first.

Sure enough...this freakin' school filled all its spots up like immediately. I was first on the waiting list and made it in. Even being enrolled in the school this year...I still barely squeezed into the time slot I wanted for nursery in September.

So, the bottom line is...it's never too early to start looking!

Re: How do I go about finding reputable nursery schools in NJ and when should I be looking?

I think age 3-4 girlie..

so u have sometime ;)

Re: How do I go about finding reputable nursery schools in NJ and when should I be looking?

Re: How do I go about finding reputable nursery schools in NJ and when should I be looking?

I am also in NJ (Maplewood) and joined Mothers & more---its a nationwide group but they have local chapters---they have playgroups/gtgs/etc, but they also have an online site for members in that chapter that you can ask questions or read the recommendations section on different things (including daycare/nursery school/etc)---I would check to see if you have a local chapter. HTH!

Re: How do I go about finding reputable nursery schools in NJ and when should I be looking?

I agree with Erin on word of mouth. I met a mom by me who is sending her child to a preschool and decided to check it out since it was so close to me and they start at 2.5 yrs. I really like the school but I am going to wait until next year.
I actually asked a mom at the park one day. I know you said your friends are mostly jewish but they still might have some recommedations.

Re: How do I go about finding reputable nursery schools in NJ and when should I be looking?

i'm in Morris County. DS is 1. I send him to The Goddard School. Their focus is on early childhood development and are from 6 weeks to pre-k. So far I like what I see and would plan to keep him here but I really don't have much basis just yet because he's only 1. But even at 1 years old they really do a lot with the kids. I get a daily sheet of the activities and report cards twice per year on development. As he gets into the next room and older really is where I'd assess it a little better to see if there is where I want him to be.

I know their are other "daycares" like this who go all the way up to pre-k.

Re: How do I go about finding reputable nursery schools in NJ and when should I be looking?

I am a pro at this....Start doing the tours when school opens in September/October. Ask a lot of people in town for recommendations. Most schools around here (Chappaqua) open registration December 1st for the following school year, when Madison will be in the 2's program. November 1st the schools open to current members (those with siblings already in school), so they claim their spots.

My experience was different than the previous posters. My dd was in the 2 day 2's program 9:15-11:45 and benefited greatly from it, socially and academically. Seasons, Colors, Alphabets... It was a great program for her. Also, it got me first choice sign up for the 3's- a five day a week half day program, which I would have been shut out of otherwise.

Make a list of questions:

Years teachers have been teaching
Degrees that they hold
Typical Schedule for the day
2's Curriculum
Look at cleanliness and organization
Warmth of teachers
School philosphy (eg; Montessori)
Class makeup- so Madison can be in classes with people she may go to elem school with.

Good luck! I interviewed five schools and knew when I found it. Perfect for dd..

Message edited 7/23/2008 6:14:58 PM.

Re: How do I go about finding reputable nursery schools in NJ and when should I be looking?

Re: How do I go about finding reputable nursery schools in NJ and when should I be looking?

Re: How do I go about finding reputable nursery schools in NJ and when should I be looking?

Hi Alicia - I know you don't want a religious school but my friend recommended St. Pauls in Westfield. She said that even jewish kids go there because it's a great school. My other friend sends her kid to St. Rose of Lima in Short Hills. There is also a Goddard School in the area, plus I think a Montessouri.

Re: How do I go about finding reputable nursery schools in NJ and when should I be looking?

Where in Jersey are you?? I'm in Morris County & could offer some suggestions.

If all else fails, go through the phone book & schedule appointments.

Re: How do I go about finding reputable nursery schools in NJ and when should I be looking?

Re: How do I go about finding reputable nursery schools in NJ and when should I be looking?

I feel the best way to ask for reco is by asking people.

When you meet people who have kids, ask them where they went to school, etc.. Just start a conversation and they are usually more than thrilled to take about their kids and school.

Re: How do I go about finding reputable nursery schools in NJ and when should I be looking?

I thought of one more - in Millburn right in Taylor Park there is that little co-op nursery school. You have to be willing to help out there but I hear it has a good reputation. It's not centered around a religion either.

And no problem - call me when you get a chance.