The Best Half-Day Preschool & Daycare Programs in Jersey City (updated 2026)
- Oct 9, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: 3 days ago
For many families, a full day of school can be a bit much for a toddler, or perhaps you just need a few hours of focused time while your child socializes. Jersey City is home to a fantastic variety of schools offering half-day programs that prioritize everything from Montessori independence to language immersion and outdoor play.
Here is a guide to the top schools in the area offering half-day schedules for the 2026 school year.
Downtown & Paulus Hook Area
Hudson Montessori School - 10 Regent Street
Hudson Montessori provides a nurturing environment where children are encouraged to explore at their own pace using scientifically designed materials. Their "Bridge" and Primary programs focus on building a strong foundation in STEAM through hands-on discovery.
Website: https://www.hudsonmontessori.net/
Price: 19,250 per year (yearly contract) + $500 registration fee
Age: 2 years – Kindergarten
Hours: 8:45 AM – 12:00 PM
The Waldo School | 110 1st St
The Waldo School follows the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum, fostering global-mindedness and critical thinking from a very young age. Their AM program offers a structured yet engaging morning filled with social-emotional lessons and inquiry-based play.
Website: https://waldoschool.com/
Price: $19,250 per year (yearly contract)
Age: 2 years and up
Hours: 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Key Element Learning | 207 Van Vorst Street
Key Element Learning utilizes a creative curriculum that integrates music, movement, and play-based academics.
Website: https://www.keyelementlearning.com/
Price: ~1,850 per month
Age: 3 months – 4 years
Hours: 8:30 AM – 12:00 PM
The Liberty School | 203 Christopher Columbus Dr
The Liberty School offers a gentle, Reggio-inspired atmosphere with a focus on process-based art and sensory development. It is highly regarded for its flexibility, allowing parents to choose between various schedules to fit their family's needs.
Website: https://www.thelibertyschooljc.com/
Price: $1,975/month (5-day half-day)
Age: 18 months – 5 years old
Hours: 8:30 AM – 12:00 PM
Early Beginnings | 109 Christopher Columbus Dr.
Early Beginnings offers a structured yet loving environment with a heavy emphasis on organic nutrition and physical development. Their half-day program is a popular choice for families looking for a community-oriented school in the downtown area.
Price: ~$1,275/month
Age: 19 months – 5 years
Hours: 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Albrich Academy of Excellence | 159 2nd St
This academy focuses on a STEAM-based curriculum to spark early curiosity and critical thinking skills. It prides itself on a values-driven education that balances academic readiness with social growth.
Website: https://www.albrichacademy.com/
Price: 21,600 per year
Age: 4 months to 4 years old
Hours: 8:30 AM – 12:00 PM
Hamilton Park Area
The Scandinavian School of Jersey City | 210 9th St
Known for its "forest school" influence, Scandi emphasizes outdoor play and child-led exploration in a plant-forward, eco-conscious setting. The curriculum is heavily inspired by Reggio Emilia, focusing on the "hundred languages of children" through art and nature.
Website: https://www.scandischool.com/
Price: ~$25,000 per year + $600 registration and material fee (yearly contract)
Age: 1 – 4 years old
Hours: 8:30 AM – 1:00 PM
Hamilton Park Montessori School | 1 McWilliams Pl
Situated right by the park, this school offers a classic Montessori experience with multi-age classrooms that foster peer-to-peer learning. Their "Bridge" program is specifically designed for toddlers who are beginning their transition into a school environment.
Website: https://hamiltonparkmontessori.com/
Price: ~$22,000 per year + $1,000 registration fee (yearly contract)
Age: 2.5 years (Bridge) – 5 years (Early Childhood)
Hours: 9:00 AM – 12:45 PM
Fast Track Language School | 242 10th St
If you want your child to learn a second language early, Fast Track offers immersive programs in Spanish, Italian, and French. Their half-day sessions combine standard early childhood education with natural language acquisition through songs, games, and art.
Price: 15,460 per year + $1,200 registration fee for 4-days a week program (yearly contract)
Age: 18 months – 3 years
Hours: 8:45 AM – 12:00 PM
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