Daycare Centers in The Heights, JSQ and Bergen-Lafayette neighborhood (update 2026)

Here is a breakdown of the daycare and preschool centers in the Heights, JSQ and Communipaw & Bergen-Lafayette neighborhood

The Heights

Parkside Preschool | 206 Central Ave

Parkside provides a balanced daily routine that includes plenty of time for both group learning and individual exploration. They offer unique scheduling options like "set time" or "short time" to help parents customize their childcare costs.

Price Range: Contact for full tuition

Age Group: 6 weeks – 5 years

Time: 6:30 AM – 6:30 PM

Little Smiles Preschool | 70 Beach St

Located conveniently for Heights residents, this center provides a nurturing "home away from home" atmosphere with multiple dedicated locations for different ages. They focus on early literacy and social-emotional growth through play.

Price Range: ~$1,200 - $1,500/month

Age Group: Infants – 5 years

Time: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Happy Face Day Care Center | 379 Palisade Ave

Happy Face is known for its long-standing presence in the community and its focus on preparing children for the transition to primary school. The center offers a mix of structured academics and creative play sessions.

Price Range: ~$1,200 – $1,700/month

Age Group: 18 months – 6 years

Time: 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM

Busy Bees of Palisade Daycare | 423 Palisade Ave

This center provides a comprehensive curriculum that includes homework support for older kids and a fun, sensory-based approach for infants. Their bright, modern facilities are a favorite for parents looking for a high-energy learning environment.

Price Range: $1,369 – $1,539 per month

Age Group: 6 weeks – 5 years (Plus aftercare for school-age)

Time: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Smart Start Academy | 502 Palisade Ave

Smart Start Academy offers an all-inclusive experience that includes organic meals and a STEM-focused curriculum.

Price Range: ~$1,200 – $2,600/month

Age Group: 6 weeks – 5 years

Time: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Journal Square (JSQ) & Central JC

Sweet Dreams Academy | 661 Montgomery St

Sweet Dreams Academy utilizes sensory techniques and early development milestones to guide infants and toddlers through their first educational steps. Their program is designed to be faster-paced as children grow to ensure they are "Kindergarten ready."

Price Range: $1,400 – $1,760/month

Age Group: 0 – 6 years

Time: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Happy Days Child Day Care Center | 102 Van Reypen Street

Conveniently located within walking distance of Path Station, Happy Days offers a stimulating environment.

Price Range: ~$1,410 per month

Age Group: Infants – School Age

Time: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Communipaw & Bergen-Lafayette

Three Little Birds | 130 Monitor St

Three Little Birds offers a warm, community-focused environment that emphasizes creative learning and social development. Their structured curriculum transitions smoothly from infant care to a robust Kindergarten program.

Price Range: $1,200 – $2,100/month

Age Group: 3 months – 5 years

Time: 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM

Small Discovery Preschool | 123 Monticello Ave

Small Discovery Preschool focuses on holistic child development, offering a blend of private Kindergarten and tutoring services. The facility is well-regarded for its flexible pickup options and dedicated staff.

Price Range: Contact for current rates

Age Group: Infant to 5 years old

Time: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Hudson Sprout Academy | 769 Montgomery St

This academy follows a "Creative Curriculum" designed to foster independence and critical thinking from a young age. They are known for their flexibility, accepting vouchers and offering various part-time schedules.

Price Range: ~$1,400–$1,800

Age Group: Infant – 5 years old

Time: 6:30 AM – 6:30 PM