TLDR
Montclair has a strong preschool ecosystem. Most popular: Montclair Cooperative School (co-op model, waitlist), Hillside Montessori (public district program), and KinderCare Montclair (full-day daycare). Tuition for private preschool runs $1,200–$2,500/month. Apply early — the best programs have long waitlists.
Best Preschools & Daycares in Montclair NJ (2026)
Montclair's early childhood education options reflect the same diversity of philosophy you see in the K-8 magnet system. From co-op preschools to Montessori to traditional academic programs, families have genuine choices. The key: start looking early — good programs fill up fast.
Top Preschools in Montclair NJ
Montclair Cooperative School
Parent Co-op, Ages 2–5
One of the most beloved preschools in Montclair. Parent co-op model means families participate in classroom operations. Deeply community-oriented, play-based curriculum. The waitlist is long — apply as early as 6–12 months before your target start date. Strong alumni base in the community.
Hillside Montessori (Public)
Public Montessori, Ages 3–5
Part of the Montclair public school Montessori magnet program. Lottery-based enrollment — you apply through the district's choice process, not directly to the school. Highly regarded and oversubscribed. The Montessori approach means child-led learning, mixed-age classrooms, and minimal traditional assessment.
KinderCare Learning Centers
Full-Day Daycare & Preschool, Ages 6wk–5yr
The most accessible full-day option for working parents in Montclair. National chain with structured curriculum and reliable care. Less philosophy-driven than the co-ops or Montessori, but competent teachers and predictable schedules. Good for dual-income families who need full-day coverage.
St. John's Episcopal Preschool
Religious/Traditional, Ages 3–5
Part-day program with a warm, traditional approach. Not explicitly academic — focuses on social and emotional readiness for kindergarten. Welcoming to families of all faiths. One of the better-priced options among the independents.
The Primrose School
Private Full-Day, Ages 6wk–5yr
Newer addition to Montclair's preschool landscape. Structured curriculum with academic readiness focus. National franchise known for consistent quality. Good for families who want both full-day coverage and more structured academic preparation.
Preschool Enrollment Tips for Montclair
Apply 6–18 months early
The Montclair Cooperative School and Hillside Montessori (public lottery) are consistently oversubscribed. For a September start, begin inquiries the previous fall.
Understand the public lottery timeline
The Montclair district magnet lottery (including Hillside Montessori for Pre-K) opens in January for the following September. You must be a Montclair resident to participate.
Ask about transition to K-8
Consider how well the preschool's philosophy aligns with your target K-8 magnet program. Children from co-op schools often thrive in inquiry-based magnets; Montessori pre-K maps naturally to Hillside K-8.
Budget for extras
Even at 'affordable' programs, factor in supplies, enrichment, and childcare gaps (school holidays, sick days). Full-year childcare in Montclair often runs $18,000–$30,000+ for full-day programs.
FAQ
What is the best preschool in Montclair NJ?
The Montclair Cooperative School is the most beloved by the parent community for its co-op model and strong alumni network. Hillside Montessori (public) is the top pick for families who want a Montessori approach without private school tuition. Both have long waitlists.
Is there a public preschool in Montclair NJ?
Yes — Montclair runs a public Pre-K program as part of the Hillside Montessori magnet. It's lottery-based and free for Montclair residents. Apply through the district's magnet lottery in January for the following September.
How much does preschool cost in Montclair NJ?
Private preschool tuition in Montclair ranges from approximately $900/month for part-day programs to $2,500–$2,800/month for full-day options. Co-op programs can be lower with the parent participation offset. The public Hillside Montessori Pre-K is free.