How to start a preschool in New Jersey

Starting a preschool or early-years setting in New Jersey involves navigating the licensing requirements set forth by the New Jersey Department of Children and Families (DCF) Office of Licensing (OOL). The OOL is the primary regulatory authority responsible for licensing and overseeing child care centers across the state. This guide will walk you through the essential steps, from understanding the different types of childcare facilities to adhering to specific staff qualifications, facility requirements, and health and safety standards. New Jersey law mandates that any child care center providing care for six or more children under 13 years of age for less than 24 hours a day must be licensed by the OOL. Family child care homes, caring for five or fewer children in a private residence, may voluntarily register through Child Care Resource and Referral Centers. Engaging with your local Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) agency can also provide invaluable technical assistance and guidance throughout the process, ensuring your program not only meets but exceeds the state’s high standards for early childhood education.

Regulations

Health safety: New Jersey child care centers must implement robust health and safety policies. This includes managing illnesses and communicable diseases, ensuring proper immunizations for children, and adhering to health requirements for staff members. There are specific procedures for the administration and control of prescription and non-prescription medicines. Centres must also have clear policies for reporting injuries to a child while in care and maintaining environmental sanitation. Safeguarding children from abuse and neglect is paramount, with strong emphasis on criminal background checks for all staff and a clear reporting pathway to the Child Abuse Hotline (1-877 NJ ABUSE). The 'Information to Parents' document highlights key information about health and safety that must be provided upon request.

Licensing overview: Child care centers in New Jersey caring for six or more children under 13 years of age who attend less than 24 hours a day are required to be licensed by the New Jersey Department of Children and Families, Office of Licensing (OOL). The OOL conducts annual monitoring inspections and renewal inspections every three years. They also investigate allegations of non-compliance. The application process involves demonstrating compliance with the comprehensive 'Manual of Requirements for Child Care Centers.' Family child care homes, caring for five or fewer children in the provider's private residence, can voluntarily register through Child Care Resource and Referral Centers, adhering to the 'Manual of Requirements for Family Child Care Registration.' Inspection reports and complaint investigation summaries are publicly available.

Licensing authority: New Jersey Department of Children and Families, Office of Licensing (OOL)

Staff qualifications: All child care providers and staff aged 18 and older, including volunteers, bus drivers, kitchen staff, and janitors, who are involved in a child’s care, supervision, or may have unsupervised access to children, must undergo comprehensive criminal background checks. This check includes Criminal History Record Information (CHRI) Fingerprint check, State and National Sex Offender Register Check, and Child Abuse Record Information (CARI) Check (for staff aged 14 and older). Disqualifying crimes include felonies such as murder, child abuse, sexual assault, and drug-related offenses within the preceding five years, as well as violent misdemeanors against a child. Staff must also complete pre-service health and safety trainings. Specific lead teacher and assistant qualifications would be detailed within the Manual of Requirements, but general staff must be 18 and pass background checks.

Facility requirements: Child care centers must demonstrate compliance with state building and fire codes and environmental sanitation requirements. The OOL conducts inspections to ensure physical plant requirements are met, as detailed in the 'Manual of Requirements for Child Care Centers.' These requirements cover aspects such as adequate indoor and outdoor environments, and general safety provisions. There are specific rule adoptions regarding the physical plant of all child care centers. Additionally, concerns like hazardous discharge sites are addressed, with a Child Care Facility Grant Application available through the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). Compliance with these regulations is essential for licensure.

Curriculum requirements: While New Jersey's Office of Licensing focuses on health, safety, and administrative compliance for child care centers, the 'Manual of Requirements for Child Care Centers' specifies the need for age-appropriate activities. It also mentions 'care, development, or supervision' of children, implying a developmental focus. Although not explicitly mandating a specific curriculum like EYFS or NQF, centers are expected to provide a program that supports children's development. IPC (International Primary Curriculum) can align by providing a structured, play-based approach that meets developmental goals, fostering essential skills and knowledge within a safe and engaging environment, thereby complementing New Jersey's general expectations for 'development' and 'activities.' Individual Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) agencies can offer technical assistance on curriculum development.

Startup costs

Startup costs for a New Jersey preschool can vary significantly. A small home-based operation or rented suite might incur lower initial costs, primarily for renovations, basic equipment, and initial licensing fees. A larger, purpose-built center designed for 60-100 children will face substantial expenses for property acquisition or long-term lease, extensive renovations to meet state codes, comprehensive equipment, and higher initial staffing and marketing. Factors driving this variation include facility size, location within New Jersey (urban vs. rural), existing infrastructure, and the scope of services offered. Expect ongoing costs for rent/mortgage, utilities, staff salaries, insurance, supplies, and continuous training.

Timeline

1. Initial Planning and Research (1-3 months): Begin by contacting your local Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) agency in New Jersey for technical assistance. Review the 'Manual of Requirements for Child Care Centers' thoroughly, available from the New Jersey Department of Children and Families. This stage involves familiarizing yourself with all regulations, zoning laws for your chosen location, and understanding the different types of programs. It is crucial to determine if you will operate a child care center (six or more children) or a family child care home (five or fewer children).

2. Facility Acquisition and Preparation (3-6 months): Secure a suitable location for your preschool, ensuring it meets New Jersey's state building and fire codes. This may involve purchasing, leasing, and renovating a property. Changes in licensing regulations regarding the physical plant of all child care centers were adopted in 2007, so ensure all construction or renovation plans adhere to current standards. Consult the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) if there are any concerns about hazardous discharge sites. The Office of Licensing cannot complete initial program inspections unless six or more children are present.

3. Licensing Application and Inspections (6-12 months): Submit your application to the New Jersey Department of Children and Families, Office of Licensing (OOL). This involves demonstrating compliance with all applicable provisions of the 'Manual of Requirements.' The OOL will conduct inspections of your physical plant and program. They may also request the appropriate State and local fire, health, and building officials to conduct examinations. Be prepared for renewal inspections every three years and annual monitoring inspections, as well as investigations into any allegations of non-compliance. A center becomes licensed after meeting all applicable conditions.

4. Staff Recruitment and Training (2-4 months): Recruit qualified staff, ensuring all individuals aged 18 and older, including volunteers, undergo comprehensive criminal background checks and Child Abuse Record Information (CARI) checks. These are mandatory in New Jersey for anyone involved in child supervision. Provide pre-service health and safety trainings. Your local Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) agency can offer professional development opportunities and support for early childhood staff to meet state licensing requirements and enhance program quality.

5. Program Implementation and Opening (1-2 months): Once licensed by the OOL, you can officially open your preschool. Ensure you provide the 'Information to Parents' document upon registration, highlighting key information about the center. Maintain proper records and prepare for ongoing compliance with all regulations, including those related to health, safety, and activities. Continuous engagement with your CCR&R can support ongoing quality improvement. Remember, centers are licensed for a three-year period and a copy of the license must be displayed prominently.

6. Ongoing Compliance and Support (Ongoing): After licensure, maintaining compliance with the New Jersey Department of Children and Families, Office of Licensing (OOL) 'Manual of Requirements' is continuous. Expect annual monitoring inspections and triennial renewal inspections. It is crucial to stay updated on any changes to regulations and to continue staff training and professional development. Utilize your local Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) for ongoing technical assistance, support services, and information on conferences and trainings to uphold a high-quality child care program.

Next steps: explore the IPC curriculum, read about preschool enrollment, or browse all start-a-preschool guides.

Frequently asked questions

How do I get licensed to open a preschool in New Jersey?

To open a preschool (child care center) in New Jersey, you must obtain a license from the Department of Children and Families (DCF) Office of Licensing (OOL). This legally mandates that any center caring for six or more children under 13 years old for less than 24 hours a day must be licensed. The process involves demonstrating full compliance with the OOL’s 'Manual of Requirements for Child Care Centers.' You will undergo inspections of your physical facility, program, and staff qualifications, and you'll need to submit an application. Contacting your local Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) agency is highly recommended for guidance and technical assistance throughout this process.

What are the staff background check requirements in New Jersey?

In New Jersey, all child care providers and staff members aged 18 and older, including administrative staff, volunteers, bus drivers, and kitchen staff, must undergo a comprehensive criminal background check. This includes a Criminal History Record Information (CHRI) Fingerprint check, a State and National Sex Offender Register Check, and a Child Abuse Record Information (CARI) Check (for those 14 and older). Certain felony convictions, such as child abuse, sexual assault, or drug-related offenses within the preceding five years, as well as violent misdemeanors against a child, are disqualifying. Your facility’s inspection reports will indicate compliance with these checks.

Where can I find information about health and safety regulations for my preschool?

The New Jersey Department of Children and Families (DCF) Office of Licensing's 'Manual of Requirements for Child Care Centers' specifies extensive health and safety regulations. These cover illnesses and communicable diseases, child and staff immunizations, medication administration, injury reporting, and environmental sanitation. The OOL conducts inspections to ensure adherence to these rules. Additionally, the Department of Health and Senior Services addresses public health, sanitation, and safety programs, while the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) covers environmental concerns like hazardous discharge sites. Parents are provided an 'Information to Parents' document detailing key health and safety policies.

Are there any grants or funding available for new preschools in New Jersey?

Yes, there are avenues for funding and financial support in New Jersey. The Hazardous Discharge Site Remediation Fund (HDSRF) offers a Child Care Facility Grant Application, which can assist with environmental remediation if your chosen site has such needs. For parents needing assistance with child care costs, the Division of Family Development (DFD) provides information about subsidies for child care programs, which can indirectly benefit your preschool by increasing enrollment. Your local Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) agency can also provide business technical assistance and information on becoming a child care subsidy vendor, allowing you to accept payments from families utilizing state subsidies.

What are the requirements for physical facilities for child care centers in New Jersey?

New Jersey's 'Manual of Requirements for Child Care Centers' outlines detailed physical facility standards for child care centers. These include adherence to state and local building and fire codes. The Office of Licensing (OOL) ensures compliance through inspections. There were specific rule adoptions in 2007 regarding physical plant requirements for all child care centers. These cover aspects such as adequate indoor and outdoor space, and overall environmental safety. The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) also has a Site Remediation Program's Child Care/Educational Facility Unit to address environmental safety concerns related to sites. Compliance with these physical standards is fundamental for obtaining and maintaining your license.

What is the role of Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) agencies in New Jersey?

Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) agencies in New Jersey are vital resources for both aspiring and existing child care providers. They offer technical assistance on how to establish a child care center or become a registered family child care provider. CCR&Rs provide information on New Jersey's licensing and registration regulations, offer professional development opportunities, and deliver support services for early childhood staff through various networks and coaching. They also assist with business technical assistance, Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) support, and guidance on becoming a child care subsidy vendor. These agencies work to enhance the quality and availability of child care across the state.