Since 1996, Little Tykes has been Lodi and Garfield’s trusted preschool, offering full-day Pre-K3 and Pre-K4 programs designed to help prepare children for Kindergarten. Our program follows New Jersey early learning standards using the Creative Curriculum® in a warm, child-centered environment that supports both academic and social development.
Little Tykes proudly uses The Creative Curriculum® for Preschool, aligned with NJ state standards and trusted by educators nationwide.
Each classroom is led by a certified teacher alongside a dedicated paraprofessional, giving children individualized support as they build confidence and foundational skills for their school journey. Families value our experienced educators, small class sizes, extended hours, and real-time parent updates.
With plenty of room to grow and a nurturing environment, our two-floor preschool center offers each child the care, comfort, and guidance they need.”
At Little Tykes, preschool is more than school readiness — it’s a full learning experience. With the Creative Curriculum®, caring teachers, and real-time parent updates, your child builds confidence, friendships, and the skills they need for Kindergarten success — in a safe, nurturing environment that feels like home
Our preschool schedule blends hands-on learning, structured routines, and joyful play. Every day builds on NJ early learning standards through circle time, literacy, math, outdoor movement, and social development. With before- and after-care included, your child stays engaged, supported, and thriving from morning to evening.
Our Preschool Program is designed for children approximately 3 to 5 years old, with classroom placement based on age, developmental readiness, and overall classroom fit.
Little Tykes offers a smaller, relationship-focused preschool environment with full-day care options designed to support working families. While district UPK programs may follow a shorter school-day schedule, our program provides extended care, personalized attention, consistent routines, and continuity of care in a nurturing setting that supports both early learning and family convenience.
Yes. Little Tykes offers full-day preschool care Monday through Friday from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM, including before and after care support for families who need extended coverage beyond a traditional school-day schedule.
Yes. Little Tykes accepts eligible childcare assistance programs, including CCAP support through approved agencies. Our team is happy to help families better understand available tuition assistance options and enrollment eligibility.
Our Preschool Program incorporates Creative Curriculum principles through hands-on learning, structured activities, play-based exploration, language development, early math and literacy experiences, music, movement, and social interaction designed to support school readiness.
Our Preschool Program focuses on building foundational academic, social, emotional, and classroom readiness skills that help children transition confidently into kindergarten. Children participate in structured routines, guided learning activities, communication development, peer interaction, and independence-building experiences throughout the day.
Our Preschool team is made up of experienced early childhood educators who are committed to creating a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment for every child. Many of our preschool staff are certified teachers and paraprofessionals, and all of our staff complete ongoing training and follow New Jersey childcare licensing requirements and educational standards.
As a family-owned center serving Lodi since 1996, Little Tykes focuses on building strong relationships with children and families through a more personal and community-centered approach. Our smaller environment allows families to experience consistent communication, familiar faces, and individualized attention in a warm and supportive setting.
Safety is a top priority throughout our Preschool Program. Little Tykes follows New Jersey state childcare licensing requirements, including secure classroom procedures, daily sanitation routines, supervised transitions, and staff members who are CPR and First Aid trained.
Yes. Weather permitting, children participate in supervised outdoor play and physical activity as part of their daily routine. Outdoor time supports gross motor development, social interaction, exploration, and healthy active play.
Real words from real families who trust us every day.
See why Lodi families have trusted Little Tykes since 1996. Book a visit today to explore our Preschool programs and meet our caring staff
Serving Lodi Families Since 1996 • Infant–Pre-K Programs
Summer 2026 Tuition Special
$290/week Full-Time
for 6 Months
7:00 AM–5:45 PM • Before & After Care Included
Special Ends:
*New families for immediate start only, valid for 6 months. Infant Program not eligible. Must enroll by 6/19/2026 and start by 6/29/2026. One-week tuition deposit due at sign-up. 30-day notice required for cancellations.
