Not every family starts daycare in September. Parents head back to work after leave, start new jobs, or move to town in the middle of the year. If you’re starting daycare in January, the next few weeks matter more than you might think.
The holidays shrink the calendar. Appointments can be harder to get, and there are New Jersey forms to finish before day one. This checklist walks you through what to do in November and December. It covers touring, the health forms New Jersey requires, the flu shot rule for January starters, and how to plan a calm first week.
Can you start daycare in January in Paramus?
Yes, starting daycare in January works at most centers. Many enroll all year long, not just in the fall.
Enrollment is ongoing if there’s space
At JJ Paramus Day Care, we enroll throughout the year as long as there’s space in your child’s age group. You can read more on our parent FAQ. Infant rooms need more teachers per child, so spots can be limited. It’s smart to ask early.
Ask which rooms have space
Openings can change from month to month. Call us to ask about January space for your child’s age group.
Your November checklist
November is the month to get the big pieces in place. Start with a tour, a doctor visit, and the flu shot.
Tour and ask about January openings
Visit in person and ask which rooms have space for January. Ask how the center shares daily updates with families, too.
This is also the time to ask about the first-week schedule. Bring a list of questions so you don’t forget any on the day. If you’re still comparing centers, our list of questions to ask on a daycare tour can help. When you’re ready, schedule a tour.
Book the pediatrician visit now
New Jersey requires a completed Universal Child Health Record when your child is admitted. Your pediatrician fills it out after a checkup. The checkup must be recent: within 6 months before the start date for children 2½ or younger, or within a year for older children. A checkup from last spring may be too old for a baby or young toddler.
You’ll also need an up-to-date immunization record. If your child is 6 months or older, ask for the flu shot at the same visit.
Get the flu shot in November
New Jersey requires this season’s flu shot for every child 6 months and older in child care. The deadline is November 30, so a January starter must show proof before the first day. Our guide to the NJ daycare flu shot requirement explains the rule.
Your December checklist
December is for paperwork and planning. Try to finish before the holiday week.
Turn in your enrollment paperwork
New Jersey centers keep a record for each child. Along with the health record, it includes an Emergency Medical Treatment Authorization that you sign.
The health record must be updated every year. You can see the full state list in the NJ child records checklist. Our registration packet is available at the center.
Check vaccine minimums for your child’s age
New Jersey updated its child care vaccine rules this school year, and new enrollees follow the updated state chart. For example, a child who starts at 11 months old needs at least 3 doses of DTaP, 2 of polio, and 3 of the pneumococcal vaccine. They also need 2 or 3 doses of Hib, depending on the brand, plus a flu shot. Your pediatrician can confirm your child is on track.
Starting daycare in January: the first week
The first week sets the tone. A little planning makes it smoother for everyone.
Plan around the holidays
Many families start right after New Year’s Day. After a holiday break, your child’s sleep and mornings may need a reset. Start moving bedtime back to normal a few days before the first day. Our guide to getting back into routine after the holidays shares simple ways to do it.
Ease in if you can
Some families start with shorter days in the first week. It gives your child time to get to know the room and teachers.
What to bring
Label everything your child brings, from bottles to spare clothes. For first-day tips and a packing list, see preparing for your baby’s first day at daycare and what to pack for daycare.
Frequently asked questions
How do I find out about January openings?
Call us at (201) 500-2951 to check space in your child’s age group. Openings can change from month to month, so it’s best to ask in November.
What forms does New Jersey require to start daycare?
New Jersey requires a Universal Child Health Record completed by your pediatrician after a recent checkup. Centers also keep an immunization record and an Emergency Medical Treatment Authorization you sign.
Does my child need a flu shot to start daycare in January?
Yes, if your child is 6 months or older. New Jersey’s deadline is November 30, so January starters must show proof of this season’s flu shot before their first day.
How recent does my child’s checkup need to be?
For children 2½ or younger, the exam must be within 6 months before the start date. For older children, it must be within a year.
How early should I tour for a January start?
Aim for November. That leaves time for the pediatrician visit, forms, and the flu shot before the holidays.
Do you offer a gradual start?
Ask your center about shorter first days. A few shorter days can help your child get used to the room and teachers.
Start the new year ready for daycare
Starting daycare in January works well with a little planning. Tour, book the pediatrician, and get the flu shot in November. Finish your forms in December.
Then plan a calm first week after the holidays. With these steps done, you can enjoy the season knowing day one is ready.
Ready to ask about January openings? Call JJ Paramus Day Care at (201) 500-2951 or schedule a tour. You can also read about the best age to start daycare or explore our programs by age.
