For Parents
Programs
Young Preschool / Toddler Program 2 ½ to 3 years old
Our Young Preschool Program provides a caring, developmentally appropriate environment where young children can learn through play, build relationships, and develop skills for preschool and beyond.
Designed with working families in mind, the program is open 12 months a year, Monday through Friday, from 7:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Our small classroom serves up to 12 children.
Private-Pay Enrollment
Families who live or work in Passaic and surrounding communities may privately enroll their child. This option offers a full-day preschool experience with extended hours and year-round care.
New Jersey Child Care Assistance Program
Eligible families may receive tuition assistance through New Jersey’s child care subsidy program, administered locally by 4C’s of Passaic County. Eligibility and family co-payments are based on state requirements, household income, family size, and other qualifying factors.
Our Family Services team can help families understand the application process and connect with 4C’s. The administering agency makes the final determination of eligibility and subsidy amounts.
NJ Preschool Program
Children’s Day partners with the Passaic Board of Education’s Early Childhood Department to provide the NJ Preschool Program to 105 children.
The program is free to eligible City of Passaic residents and follows the Passaic Public School calendar. The school day runs from 8:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., and children are expected to attend for the full program day.
Families must meet Passaic City residency requirements.
Collaboration with Passaic Family Head Start
Children’s Day has partnered with Passaic Family Head Start for more than 20 years to provide additional support to children and families.
Currently, 75 children in our NJ Preschool Program are also designated as Head Start participants based on federal eligibility criteria. This partnership helps Children’s Day provide enhanced services to children and families throughout the center.
Wraparound Program (School Year)
Our Wraparound Program provides extended care for NJ Preschool families during the school year, from September through June. Care is available as early as 7:00 a.m. and until 5:30 p.m.
We are also open for children enrolled in the program on most days when public schools are closed, such as during spring break.
Families may apply for assistance through 4C’s of Passaic County to cover all or part of their school-year and summer wraparound costs. Depending on eligibility, some families may have a weekly co-payment. Families who do not qualify for a subsidy may enroll through private pay.
The school-year and summer Wraparound Programs are also available to children in kindergarten and first grade, up to age 7. Transportation is not provided.
Summer Program July/August
Our Summer Program offers children a safe, nurturing, and engaging place to learn and play while providing working families with dependable full-day care.
Children enjoy age-appropriate activities that encourage creativity, movement, social-emotional development, and continued learning. Summer experiences may include outdoor play, water activities, arts and crafts, music and movement, themed activities, picnics, scavenger hunts, and special classroom events.
The program is available to eligible current families and private-pay families seeking summer care in the Passaic area. Enrollment is based on available space. Private-pay rates and subsidy options may be available depending on family eligibility.
Curriculum
Learning Through Play with HighScope
At Children’s Day, we believe children learn best when they are actively involved in their learning. We use the HighScope Curriculum, an approach that encourages children to explore their interests, make choices, solve problems, and reflect on their experiences.
Our teachers build on children’s natural curiosity and love of play. They create hands-on learning opportunities that support each child’s growth while helping them develop independence, confidence, and a love of learning.
A Classroom Designed for Discovery
Our classrooms include carefully arranged interest areas where children can explore materials, practice skills, and learn alongside their friends. These areas may include:
Blocks: Building, problem-solving, and exploring shapes and space
Books: Enjoying stories and developing language and early literacy skills
House: Using imagination and practicing social skills through pretend play
Art: Expressing ideas and exploring creativity
Discovery: Asking questions and investigating the world around them
Teachers plan learning experiences that reflect the interests and needs of the children in their classrooms.
A Predictable Daily Routine
A consistent routine helps children feel secure and know what to expect throughout the day. Our HighScope daily routine includes:
Greeting Time: Children and teachers welcome one another and begin the day together.
Planning Time: Children share what they would like to do and choose activities that interest them.
Work Time: Children explore, play, and carry out their plans with support from their teachers.
Recall Time: Children reflect on and share what they did during work time.
Small- and Large-Group Time: Children participate in activities that encourage learning, movement, and connection with others.
Mealtime Together
Meals are served family style, with children and teachers sitting together at the table. Children have opportunities to serve themselves using appropriately sized bowls and pitchers, building independence and confidence.
Mealtime conversations also help children practice social skills, learn about nutrition, and see healthy eating habits modeled.
Rest and Relaxation
After lunch, children have time to rest in a calm, quiet classroom. Children’s Day provides a cot, sheet, and blanket for each child. Teachers dim the lights and play soft music to create a relaxing atmosphere.
Quiet activities are available for children who do not sleep.
Forms
Communication
Class Dojo
Your Privacy & Peace of Mind
Children’s Day uses ClassDojo as a secure communication tool to keep families informed. ClassDojo is used for school communication only, and family information is shared thoughtfully and responsibly.
How We Use ClassDojo
Share classroom updates, photos, and special moments
Communicate important school announcements and reminders
Support ongoing communication between families and teachers
Celebrate children’s learning and positive experiences