Schools in Toms River, NJ

“I’ve taken both of my grandchildren to Gymboree Play & Music with Ms. Michele, and it’s been a wonderful experience. The facility is always clean, and the activities are thoughtful, engaging, and age-appropriate.

Over the past four years, what’s stood out most is Ms. Michele’s impact on families—especially first-time parents. It’s eye-opening to watch how naturally she reassures them during moments of concern or comparison. Her knowledge, encouragement, and positivity help parents feel confident that their children will grow, learn, and succeed at their own pace.

It’s a truly supportive and enriching environment for both children and their families.”

“Our son just started at this location in the summer and I can’t even begin to tell you how amazing it has been for him. This was our first time sending him to daycare so it was a big step for us and for him and the whole Kinder Care team has been incredible. We know each day that our son is well cared for and is excelling developmentally because of their learning programs. If you’re considering Kinder Care for your child’s early care, you are not going to be disappointed!”

“My daughter started midway through the school year and was truly made to feel that she's been at this school for years. All of the teachers and staff have been so supportive and have all taken the time to get to know my child on an individual basis making her feel so special. The growth that my child has made just in these few months is a true testament to the amazing staff, the curriculum the school uses, as well as all of the other engaging resources and events. We can't thank Peppermint Tree enough for building our daughter into a successful student and for preparing her for her future years in her academic career.”

“Cherry Lane has been an exceptional place for my children. The staff is caring, attentive, and genuinely invested in every child's growth and happiness. It’s been such a joy to watch my kids learn new things and gain confidence each day. The environment is warm, nurturing, and structured in a way that supports both education and play. I couldn’t ask for a better team to help guide my children through these important early years!”

“OKA has been a wonderful daycare / preschool for our little ones. My daughter went here for two years and our son for a couple of months before we moved out of town and had to move our kids elsewhere. We really miss it here.

The staff are kind and caring. Our infant refused a bottle and the girls worked tirelessly to get him to drink milk. It was because of them we were able to narrow down one specific sippy cup he would drink from. They kept me updated around the clock. The communication in this facility is unparalleled.

The girls in the preschool room were always very nurturing with our 3 year old who could sometimes get emotional. Always felt like she was given undivided attention even in a full classroom.

Veanna was always flexible and accommodating with our needs. She is honest about any issues with the kids. At one point another student was rough with our daughter on two occasions and unfortunately the child was expelled but I felt comfort knowing my daughter was safe.

Every experience is different but I’m happy to say ours was exceptional.”

“From the moment my first born toddled through the doors at age two, my little girl has called Goddard her home. Now, shes enjoying kindergarten, but still begs to come back to the Goddard School, her eyes sparkling at the thought of another summer coming soon of games, stories, swim, and the warm, familiar hum of her “second family.” Her younger sister, who arrived as a three‑month‑old bundle of curiosity, is about to turn three. Every day she bursts with new words, bright ideas, and laughter that fills the hallway, a testament to the nurturing, love‑filled environment that surrounds her. In the Goddard family we’ve found more than a school; we’ve found a community that celebrates each milestone, supports every stumble, and makes every child feel truly seen. It’s a place where learning feels like play and every goodbye is just a promise to return. And that promise? We can’t wait to keep keeping it. ❤”

“We could not be happier with our decision to send our son to VIP. Everyday our boy comes home smiling! He enjoys his teachers and his friends so very much. He also tells me things he’s learned daily. The staff is very engaged with their students and parents as well. Open lines of communication as well. This helps to make this Mommy’s heart feel better knowing he’s in a good center with great staff! Thank You to Stacy and the staff at VIP, we are so happy here!”

“We were skeptical because of course who isn't when trying to pick a daycare for your child. Our 3.5 year old is very hyper active and NEEDS constant stimulation. He is not rwccomended for a full day of special education day care through toms river but he does go in the morning. We've gone through early intervention and all that. I've had a sour taste in my mouth from the previous schools we've been to - the learning experience in toms river and the learning ladder in lacey. Both were not equipped to handle a hyperactive child whatsoever. I was getting called every single day to pick him up.
Sebastian is thriving at smart start academy after bring there almost 1 month ! Everyone here is so kind. He comes home and talks about his friends. He's happy to go to school and i think that means something coming from a 3.5 year old !! Thank you ♥️”

“Westminster Nursery School has been my daughters home away from home for the last three years. She truly loved every teacher she has had from Pre-K 3-Kindergarten. It is incredible how much she has learned and grown both academically and personally. She looked forward to going to school every day!
My son started pre-k 3 this year and he had a rough time adjusting at first. His teachers were INCREDIBLY patient and even administration spent some time making him feel more comfortable. By the end of the year, he is crying thinking about leaving his teachers.
From the teachers to the administration, I highly recommend this school to anyone. We had such a great experience and will truly miss it!”

“I enrolled my son in the infant room when he was 4 months old and he's now about to move to the toddler room at Creative Castle. I've been very happy with our experience there. The teachers genuinely care about his well being, have been great working with me on feeding and nap transitions, and I love that he happily runs into class in the morning excited to see his friends. The center is clean, has great teacher retention, and my son is learning so much! Definitely recommend!”