Welcome to Step By Step

Hello, Neighbor —
We're So Glad
You Found Us

A caring, home-like childcare center on Maplewood Avenue, right here in Woodbridge Township. Your child's first steps deserve a warm place to take them — and that's exactly what we offer every single day.

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Family-Owned & Operated
Home-Like Environment
Woodbridge Township Local
Happy children playing in a bright, welcoming childcare space
Children engaged in creative arts and crafts activities
Caring educator interacting warmly with a young child
Local Woodbridge Township

About Us

More Than a Daycare —
It's a Second Home

When we opened our doors on Maplewood Avenue, we had one simple conviction: every child deserves to feel like they belong. Not in a facility, not in a program — but in a home.

Step By Step Family Childcare Center is a small, family-run program where the atmosphere is as important as the curriculum. We keep our group intimate so every child gets the attention they need, the kindness they deserve, and the gentle guidance that helps them grow at their own pace.

Our home is your child's home away from home. The meals are homemade. The routines are predictable and soothing. The adults are patient, present, and genuinely invested. And the learning? It happens naturally — through play, through exploration, through the kind of unhurried moments that let a child's curiosity lead the way.

Nurturing, patient care
Home-style meals included
Small, intentional groups
Safe, clean, and welcoming

Programs

Growth at Every Stage

Age-appropriate care designed around how children actually develop — not around a calendar.

Ages 6 weeks – 18 months

Infant Care

Gentle, responsive care for your youngest. Feeding on demand, plenty of tummy time, soft singing, and a calm environment where your baby builds trust and security.

  • Individualized feeding & sleeping routines
  • Sensory play & motor skill development
  • Attachment-focused caregiving
  • Daily communication with parents
Ages 18 months – 3 years

Toddler Program

Big feelings, big curiosity, big adventures. Our toddler program channels that energy into safe exploration, early language, and the beginnings of social connection.

  • Language-rich environment & story time
  • Guided outdoor play & gross motor activities
  • Early art, music & sensory exploration
  • Potty-learning support
Ages 3 – 5 years

Pre-Kindergarten

Building the foundation for school and for life. Our pre-K program nurtures early literacy, numeracy, and social skills through play-based learning that feels like fun.

  • Early literacy & phonics introduction
  • Number sense & hands-on math
  • Collaborative projects & group activities
  • School readiness & independence skills

Our Approach

Learning Through Living

We don't believe in rushing childhood. Our curriculum follows the child — not the other way around. Every activity, every conversation, every moment is an opportunity for genuine learning.

01

Play-Based Learning

Children learn best when they're engaged, curious, and having fun. We design experiences that feel like play but build real skills — problem-solving, creativity, language, and emotional intelligence.

02

Emotional Development

We help children name their feelings, regulate their emotions, and build empathy. A child who feels understood is a child who can learn, connect, and thrive.

03

Nature & Outdoors

Fresh air, sunshine, and unstructured outdoor time are non-negotiables. Whether it's a walk around the block or time in our yard, the outdoors is always part of the day.

04

Family Partnership

You're the expert on your child. We partner with parents through daily updates, open communication, and genuine collaboration to make sure every child gets what they need.

Children playing outdoors in a sunny yard
Children engaged in arts and crafts at a table

A Day at Step By Step

Predictable Routines,
Endless Wonder

Our days follow a gentle rhythm — enough structure to feel safe, enough flexibility to follow the children's interests.

Morning

Arrival & Free Play

Children arrive, settle in, and choose their own activities — blocks, books, puzzles, or pretend play. No rush. Just a warm welcome.

Mid-Morning

Group Time & Learning Centers

Songs, stories, and themed activities. We might explore colors, count objects, or listen to a story together — always led by the children's energy and interest.

Noon

Homemade Lunch & Quiet Time

A wholesome, home-cooked lunch followed by rest or quiet activities. We respect each child's sleep needs and never rush the transition.

Afternoon

Outdoor Play & Snack

Time outside — fresh air, movement, and exploration. Back inside for a healthy snack, then more creative play before families arrive.

Late Afternoon

Pickup & Goodbyes

Every day ends with a chance to share what happened, what was learned, and what made your child smile. We love hearing about their day.

Get In Touch

We'd Love to Meet You

Every family is different, and we want to understand what matters most to you. Reach out to schedule a visit — there's no pressure, just a chance to see our home and ask questions.

Visit Us
375 Maplewood Ave
Woodbridge Twp, NJ 07067-3707
Call Us (201) 214-8827

Schedule a Visit

Fill out the form below and we'll get back to you within 24 hours to arrange a tour.

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