Daycares & Preschools in Montclair NJ (2026)
Finding quality childcare in Montclair is competitive — the best programs have waitlists that start before your child is born. Here is what is available, what it costs, and how to navigate the process.
Heads Up
The most sought-after Montclair daycares and preschools fill up 12–18 months in advance. If you are pregnant or just had a child, start researching and reaching out now.
Daycare Costs in Montclair NJ
| Age Group | Weekly Cost (Full Time) | Annual Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Infant (6 weeks–12 months) | $500–$700/week | $26,000–$36,000 |
| Toddler (1–2 years) | $450–$600/week | $23,000–$31,000 |
| Preschool (3–4 years) | $350–$500/week | $18,000–$26,000 |
| Pre-K (4–5 years) | $300–$450/week | $15,000–$23,000 |
Note: NJ Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) provides subsidies for qualifying families. Check eligibility at state.nj.us/humanservices.
Top Daycare & Preschool Programs in Montclair
Montclair Community Pre-K
Public Pre-K (Free) · Ages: 3–4 years
Montclair Township offers free public Pre-K through the Montclair schools. Seats are limited and allocated by lottery. This is the most sought-after option because it is free and feeds directly into the magnet system. Apply early — the lottery typically opens in winter for the following fall.
Waitlist: Yes — lottery system, apply by February
The Nest Montclair
Private Childcare Center · Ages: 6 weeks–5 years
Well-regarded full-service childcare center in Montclair. Takes infants through pre-K. Play-based curriculum, good staff-to-child ratios, clean and well-organized facility. One of the top choices for families returning to work with infants.
Waitlist: Yes — add to list ASAP, especially for infant rooms
Chabad of Montclair Preschool
Jewish-affiliated Preschool · Ages: 2–5 years
High-quality preschool program with a warm, nurturing environment. Jewish values integrated into curriculum but open to all families. Strong reputation among Montclair parents across religious backgrounds. Half-day and full-day options.
Waitlist: Moderate — apply 6–12 months ahead
KinderCare (Bloomfield, near Montclair)
National Chain · Ages: 6 weeks–5 years
Corporate childcare option just over the Montclair border in Bloomfield. More available capacity than local independent programs — a good fallback if local waitlists are full. Consistent standards, predictable curriculum.
Waitlist: Often available — good backup option
Montclair YMCA Child Watch & Camps
YMCA Programs · Ages: 6 weeks–12 years
The Montclair YMCA offers childcare, after-school programs, and summer camps. Not a full-time daycare replacement but excellent for drop-in care, summer coverage, and after-school pickup. Members get priority registration.
Waitlist: Summer camps fill by March
What to Look for When Choosing a Daycare
- ✓NJ licensing — all daycares must be licensed by NJ DCF. Verify at nj.gov/dcf
- ✓Staff turnover rate — high turnover is a red flag in childcare settings
- ✓Teacher-to-child ratios — NJ requires 1:4 for infants, 1:6 for toddlers, 1:10 for preschool (minimums — better programs beat these)
- ✓Communication style — how do they update parents during the day? Apps, photos, daily reports?
- ✓Curriculum philosophy — play-based vs. academic; know your preference before touring
- ✓Trial visit — any reputable program will allow a short trial day before full enrollment
After-School Care in Montclair
For school-age children, after-school options in Montclair include:
Montclair Public Schools After-Care
The district runs an official after-school program at most elementary schools. Priority for enrolled students. Apply through the school district office in spring for the following year.
YMCA After-School
The Montclair YMCA provides after-school pickup and programming. Buses from several Montclair schools. Good option if the district program is full.
Private Tutoring / Nanny Share
Common arrangement in Montclair — families with compatible schedules share a nanny for after-school pickup and care. Montclair parent Facebook groups are active for finding matches.