A Local Mom's/Dad's Guide to Preschools in Closter, Demarest, Haworth, Cresskill and Tenafly, NJ
Buying a home is about more than bedrooms, bathrooms, and square footage—it's about finding the right community and the right opportunities for your family. As a Closter resident for more than 20 years, a Northern Valley mom, and a local real estate professional, one of the questions I hear most often from families relocating to Bergen County is:
"What preschool options are available in the area?"
Fortunately, families moving to Closter, Demarest, Haworth, Cresskill, and Tenafly have access to an exceptional variety of early childhood programs, from play-based learning environments to Montessori programs and full-day options with extended care.
While every child and family has unique needs, here are some of the area's most popular preschool options to help you begin your search.
Closter Preschool Options
Palisades Preschool
A longtime favorite among local families, Palisades Preschool offers a warm and nurturing environment with a strong emphasis on play-based learning, creativity, and social development. The program encourages exploration and helps children build confidence and independence.
Lindgren Preschool
Known for its experienced educators and engaging curriculum, Lindgren Preschool focuses on developing foundational academic and social skills through hands-on learning and interactive activities that prepare children for kindergarten and beyond.
Everbrook Academy
Everbrook Academy offers a modern approach to early childhood education with an emphasis on developing the whole child academically, socially, emotionally, and physically. Many families appreciate the flexibility of its programs and extended care options.
Jack in the Box School
Serving children from infancy through age five, Jack in the Box provides a nurturing environment where children learn through discovery, creative play, and structured educational experiences. The school focuses on cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development during these important early years.
Demarest Preschool Options
Teens-N-Tots Preschool Program
Located within Northern Valley Regional High School, this unique program has served local families for more than 25 years. Preschool children benefit from instruction by certified educators while also interacting with high school students enrolled in child development courses, creating a truly distinctive learning environment for children ages 3-5.
Cresskill Preschool Options
Cresskill Cooperative Nursery School
This community-centered program emphasizes social and emotional growth through cooperative play and family involvement. Children develop important early learning skills while building friendships and confidence.
Cresskill Montessori School
Families seeking a Montessori education appreciate the school's child-led philosophy, which encourages independence, curiosity, and self-directed learning in a carefully prepared environment.
All About Me Preschool
All About Me Preschool offers a nurturing atmosphere with individualized attention and hands-on learning experiences designed to foster creativity, confidence, and a love of learning.
Tenafly Preschool Options
Tenafly Chabad Preschool
Tenafly Chabad combines a warm, nurturing environment with a well-rounded educational experience that supports each child's intellectual, social, and emotional growth.
JCC on the Palisades Early Childhood Center
One of the largest and most well-known early childhood programs in the area, the JCC offers a wide variety of educational and enrichment opportunities in a vibrant community setting. Families often appreciate the extensive programming and amenities available through the center.
The Spring School
The Spring School is known for its child-centered philosophy and strong focus on creativity, exploration, and social development in a supportive learning environment.
Temple Sinai Preschool
Temple Sinai Preschool offers a welcoming and engaging program that blends academics, creativity, and social growth while fostering a strong sense of community among families.
Choosing the Right Preschool
What to Look for Before You Tour
A few questions worth asking at every school, before you fall in love with the cutest bulletin board in the lobby:
- Philosophy fit — play-based, Montessori, or academic-leaning? There's no “best” one, only the best fit for your child.
- Ratios and group size — smaller isn't always better, but you should know the number before you commit.
- Drop-off/pick-up hours — does it match your work schedule, or will you need a nanny share or aftercare?
- Waitlist timing — several of the most popular programs here fill up 9–12 months ahead. If you're relocating for a summer or fall closing, start calling in the fall/winter before.
- Licensing — NJ child care centers are licensed by the state; it's worth confirming current status directly with the school.
Public School Preschool Programs: What Parents Should Know
Many families moving to Closter, Demarest, Haworth, Cresskill, and Tenafly are surprised to learn that several local public school districts now offer preschool programs for resident children. These programs provide an excellent opportunity for children to become familiar with their future school community while developing important social, emotional, and academic readiness skills.
However, unlike kindergarten enrollment, preschool spots are often limited and are not always guaranteed for every resident child.
Is Public Preschool Free?
The answer varies by district. Some programs are tuition-based while others may receive state funding or offer subsidized tuition options depending on the program structure and district requirements.
Is There a Lottery?
In many Bergen County districts, preschool enrollment is determined through a lottery process when applications exceed the number of available seats. Children selected through the lottery are offered placement, while additional applicants are placed on a waiting list if spots become available.
How Many Classes Are There?
Most Northern Valley districts offer only a limited number of preschool classrooms each year, which is one reason demand can exceed availability. The number of classes and available seats may change annually based on district funding, staffing, and enrollment trends.
What Is an Integrated Preschool Program?
Many public preschool programs are "integrated classrooms," meaning they combine general education preschool students with children receiving special education services. This model creates a diverse learning environment that supports social growth, inclusion, and peer learning opportunities for all students.
What Are the Age Requirements?
Most public preschool programs require children to be either three or four years old by October 1 of the school year and fully toilet trained before the start of classes. Age requirements and eligibility vary by district.
Closter Public Schools
Closter currently offers a Full-Day Integrated Preschool Program for resident children. As with many public preschool programs, space is limited and families should apply early and monitor district announcements for application timelines and enrollment details.
Demarest Public Schools
Demarest offers preschool opportunities for resident families and has expanded its early childhood programming in recent years. Availability and enrollment procedures may vary from year to year, so families should check directly with the district regarding class sizes, tuition, and admissions procedures.
Haworth Public School
Haworth currently offers a public Pre-K program, but enrollment demand has been high enough that registration has filled quickly in recent years. Families interested in the program should apply as early as possible once registration opens.
Cresskill Public Schools
Cresskill has expanded its preschool offerings in recent years as New Jersey continues to invest in early childhood education. Families should contact the district directly for current enrollment procedures and availability.
Tenafly Public Schools
Tenafly families should check with the district regarding current preschool offerings, eligibility requirements, and whether enrollment is based on available seats, tuition, or lottery placement.
Because preschool programming can change from year to year, I always encourage families to contact the individual district directly for the latest information regarding tuition, class sizes, lottery procedures, and registration deadlines.
Every child learns differently, and the "best" preschool is ultimately the one that best fits your child's personality, your family's schedule, and your educational goals. Some families prioritize play-based learning, while others seek Montessori programs, full-day schedules, religious education, or extended care options.
The good news is that families in Closter, Demarest, Haworth, Cresskill, and Tenafly have access to an outstanding selection of early childhood programs.
If you're considering a move to the Northern Valley or surrounding town and would like insight into neighborhoods, schools, commuting options, or what it's really like to raise a family here, I would be happy to share my perspective as both a local mom and real estate professional.
Thinking about making a move to Bergen County? Feel free to reach out anytime — I'd love to help you find not just the right home, but the right community for your family.
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