Facts and Questions

Below you will find frequently asked questions about Shepherd Center for Child Care. If you have a question that is not answered, please call
(732)946-4323 and the Director will be happy to help you.

How will Shepherd Center prepare my child for school?

Will my child be challenged?

What is your approach to discipline?

What is the child to teacher ratio?

What are the teacher's qualifications?

What will it cost? What does my fee include?

How often is there a fee change?

How do you safely administer medication?

What is the environment like?

Can parents be involved?

Is part-time care available?

How will Shepherd Center prepare my child for school?Physical, cognitive and language development are part of many everyday activities that follow a developmental continuum. The curriculum involves literacy, mathematics, science, social studies, the arts, technology and process skills. The content is taught with the children's developmental stages in mind so that children are more likely to be successful learners who feel excited about and challenged by what they are learning.
Top

Will my child be challenged?The learning environment is divided into several interest areas which offer multiple opportunities for children to explore, discover and grow within a small group setting. The periodic introduction of activities just beyond their level of mastery keeps children challenged and interested.
Top

What is your approach to discipline?
By keeping the environment organized and helping children understand that every action has a logical consequence, children develop self-discipline and learn to manage their conflicts in a constructive way. At no time is discipline used that will hurt, humiliate or frighten a child.
Top

What is the child to teacher ratio?
Shepherd Center's ratios are better than those required by the State of New Jersey. In addition to the regular full-time and part-time staff, the assistance of several volunteers enable the teacher more one-on-one interaction with the children.
Top

What are the teacher's qualifications?
Your child's teacher will meet all the qualifications required by the State. The teacher is also certified in first aid and C.P.R. All Shepherd Center teachers complete an extensive orientation program and are required to participate in regular training sessions. They are kept up to date on research about early childhood. In turn, they are able to make decisions that promote learning and development that positively impact the lives of the children and their families.
Top

What will it cost? What does my fee include? How often is there a fee change?
Monthly fees include meals, snacks and the materials used by the children during the day. Additional fees may be charged for special projects, programs or trips. Fees are adjusted annually. Optional linen service, diaper service and sibling care are available.
Top

How do you safely administer medication?
Written authorization from the parent and physician is required. A medicine log is kept and only designated individuals can administer medication.
Top

What is the environment like?
Shepherd Center creates a sense of family in a home-like setting that is surrounded by 260 acres of country property away from traffic, noise and public access. It is a community where children feel safe and valued.
Top

Can parents be involved?
We seek input from parents to aid us in giving the best possible care and learning experiences that meet the specific needs of their child. Parents are encouraged to visit anytime and to take part in their child's daily activities. Parents are also welcome to join class trips and outings. Shepherd Center offers annual family events so that parents can get to know each other.
Top

Is part-time care available?
Shepherd Center offers part-time and flexible schedules. Our part-time care consists of two, three or four full days per week. There are no half-days. We will work with you to develop a schedule of days and drop-off and pick-up times that best meet your family's needs.
Top