Small Wonder
NORTH ARLINGTON, NJ·Licensed Child Care CenterLicensed
Contact information
Address9 Forest Street, North Arlington, NJ, 07031
CountyBergen
Phone201-246-7700
Operating details
Capacity65
Compliance snapshot
Last inspection: 2/6/2026 · Counts cover the full published inspection history; search results show the past 2 years.
- High9
- Medium-High10
- Medium4
- Medium-Low2
- Low0
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Location
Using Address for Location
Exact coordinates aren't available, but you can view this location at:
9 Forest Street, North Arlington, NJ, 07031, NORTH ARLINGTON, NJ 07031
Questions to ask on a tour
Chosen for this facility's inspection history and profile — bring them along on your visit.
- This facility has staffing or training findings on its state record - ask about background checks, required training completion, and staff turnover
- Ask how they keep enrollment, immunization, and emergency-contact records current - their state findings include documentation lapses
- Ask about teacher-to-child ratios and how supervision is maintained through the day
- Ask about their illness policy and which symptoms require a child to stay home
Violation summary
Last 2 years · Last inspection: 2/6/2026
- High9
- Medium-High10
- Medium4
- Medium-Low2
- Low0
2026
- High risk2/6/2026
N.J.A.C. 3A:52-4.11(a) — Ensure that CHRI background checks are completed as required for the sponsor/sponsor representative and all regularly scheduled staff.
Ensure that CHRI background checks are completed as required for the sponsor/sponsor representative and all regularly scheduled staff. Regulation: As a condition of securing a license or Certificate of Life/Safety Approval, the sponsor or sponsor representative shall ensure that a Criminal History Record Information (CHRI) fingerprint background check is completed for himself or herself, and for all staff members at least 18 years of age who are or will be working at the center on a regularly- scheduled basis, to determine whether any such person has been convicted of a crime, as specified in P.L. 2000, c. 77 (N.J.S.A. 30:5B-6.10 to 6.17). If a staff member refuses to consent to a CHRI background check, the sponsor or sponsor representative shall immediately terminate the staff member’s employment at the center.
Corrected 5/28/2026 - High risk2/6/2026
N.J.A.C. 3A:52-4.10(a) — Ensure that CARI background checks are completed as required for the sponsor/sponsor representative and all regularly scheduled staff for the center.
Ensure that CARI background checks are completed as required for the sponsor/sponsor representative and all regularly scheduled staff for the center. Regulation: As a condition of securing a new or renewal license or Certificate of Life/Safety Approval, the sponsor or sponsor representative shall provide for himself or herself, and shall obtain from all staff members who are or will be working at the center on a regularly scheduled basis, written consent for the Department to conduct a Child Abuse Record Information (CARI) background check to determine whether an incident of child abuse or neglect has been substantiated against any such person. If a staff member refused to consent to a CARI background check, the sponsor or sponsor representative shall immediately terminate the staff member's employment at the center.
Corrected 3/9/2026 - Medium-Low risk2/6/2026
N.J.A.C. 3A:52-4.1(d) — Complete and maintain on file, a current Staff Records Checklist designated by OOL.
Complete and maintain on file, a current Staff Records Checklist designated by OOL. Regulation: the Staff Records Checklist for the current director and all staff members currently working at the center shall be maintained on file at the center.
Corrected 5/28/2026 - High risk2/6/2026
N.J.A.C. 3A:52-7.5(b)(10) — Ensure Epi-pens are stored in their original boxes with the child's name and prescription, accompanied by a special care plan that includes procedures for contacting parents and emergency medical services, and both epi-pens are
Ensure Epi-pens are stored in their original boxes with the child's name and prescription, accompanied by a special care plan that includes procedures for contacting parents and emergency medical services, and both epi-pens are present when two are required. For two children missing Special Care Plan. Regulation: (9) The center shall develop and follow a policy on the administration of medication and health care procedures to children, which shall include the following provisions: before administering a health care procedure associated with a child’s health condition, such as the use of a blood glucose monitor, nebulizer, or epinephrine pen, the center shall ensure that all staff members who administer the procedure are taught to do so by the child’s parent or another appropriately-trained person. There shall be at least two staff members present at the center who are trained in such health care procedures. 10. The center shall store prescribed epinephrine pens in their original boxes with the child’s name and prescription. A special care plan or other documentation from a health care provider shall accompany the epinephrine pen. If two epinephrine pens are required, both shall be available. Each center under the jurisdiction of N.J.S.A. 18A:40-12.5 shall store back-up epinephrine pens on site consistent with the requirements stated at N.J.S.A. 18A:40- 12.5.e(1).
Corrected 4/13/2026 - High risk2/6/2026
N.J.A.C. 3A:52-6.4(a)(2) — Ensure that bibs are removed when placed in crib for sleeping in room 1.
Ensure that bibs are removed when placed in crib for sleeping in room 1. Regulation: For early childhood programs, the center shall ensure that blankets or pillows do not cover the child's face.
Corrected 3/9/2026 - Medium risk2/6/2026
N.J.A.C. 3A:52-6.1(g)(3) — Provide at least five different activity areas with at least five different types of supplies and equipment for children over 18 months of age. Room 5
Provide at least five different activity areas with at least five different types of supplies and equipment for children over 18 months of age. Room 5 Regulation: For early childhood programs, the following shall apply: centers serving children 18 months of age and older shall provide at least five types of children's daily activities including, but not limited to, language; science and mathematics; manipulative; large muscle; building; art; music; drama; or other comparable activities; and at least five types of supplies and equipment for each daily activity chosen by the center.
Corrected 4/13/2026 - Medium risk2/6/2026
N.J.A.C. 3A:52-5.3(q)(1) — Ensure all rooms are approved by the OOL prior to use; make unapproved space inaccessible to children. In room 2 there were 17 children present when the room is only licensed for 15 children.
Ensure all rooms are approved by the OOL prior to use; make unapproved space inaccessible to children. In room 2 there were 17 children present when the room is only licensed for 15 children. Regulation: Space and room requirements are as follows: all space and rooms within the center to be used by children shall be inspected and approved by the Office of Licensing prior to their use. In making its determination, the Office of Licensing shall consider whether the space is too far removed, remote, or isolated from other areas of the center to be used by children. Rooms or areas of the center that are not Office of Licensing-approved for use by children shall be made inaccessible to children.
Corrected 3/9/2026 - Medium-High risk2/6/2026
N.J.A.C. 3A:52-5.3(o)(1) — Ensure that at least two staff members who have current pediatric first aid and CPR certifications are present at the center at all times and that the training includes a hands-on component in addition to any online training.
Ensure that at least two staff members who have current pediatric first aid and CPR certifications are present at the center at all times and that the training includes a hands-on component in addition to any online training. Regulation: First aid requirements are as follows: at least two staff members who have current certified basic knowledge of first aid principles and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), as defined by a recognized health organization (such as the American Red Cross), shall be in the center at all times when enrolled children are present. The first aid and CPR training shall include a hands-on training component in addition to any online training coursework.
Corrected 3/9/2026 - High risk2/6/2026
N.J.A.C. 3A:52-5.3(m)(2) — Ensure that all exits and egress areas are unobstructed and that the emergency exit doors are easily operable in room 4. Remove snow from 2nd emergency exit on the 1st floor. Abated on 2/19/2026 Remove ice from steps on the seco
Ensure that all exits and egress areas are unobstructed and that the emergency exit doors are easily operable in room 4. Remove snow from 2nd emergency exit on the 1st floor. Abated on 2/19/2026 Remove ice from steps on the second floor exit. Abated on 2/19/2026. Remove children shelf from emergency exit on first floor by room 5. Abated on 3/9/2026 Regulation: Supplemental evacuation requirements are as follows: cribs, beds, playpens, and cots used for rest or sleep shall be arranged so as to provide access to a three-foot-wide aisle that leads to an unobstructed exit.
Corrected 4/13/2026 - High risk2/6/2026
N.J.A.C. 3A:52-4.8(d) — Ensure that all credentialed staff complete 20 hours of staff development annually.
Ensure that all credentialed staff complete 20 hours of staff development annually. Regulation: The director, head teacher(s), group teacher(s), and program supervisor(s) shall each complete 20 hours of staff development each year. Recommended topics of training for these staff include educational and physical activity; special needs programming and program development; social-emotional and behavioral development for young children; legal issues, including ADA guidelines and leadership and advocacy.
Corrected 3/9/2026 - Medium-Low risk2/6/2026
N.J.A.C. 3A:52-4.8(c) — Ensure that all staff complete 12 hours of staff development annually.
Ensure that all staff complete 12 hours of staff development annually. Regulation: The center shall ensure that all staff members who work at the center complete 12 hours of continuing staff development each year. Orientation training as specified in N.J.A.C. 3A:52-4.8(a) may be included for six of the required hours of staff development specified in N.J.A.C. 3A:52-4.8(c) and (d).
Corrected 3/9/2026 - High risk2/6/2026
N.J.A.C. 3A:52-4.8(a) — Ensure that all staff complete orientation training within two weeks of hire and annually, including
Ensure that all staff complete orientation training within two weeks of hire and annually, including Regulation: (a) Topics of orientation training shall include all of the following: 1. Supervising and tracking all children, as specified in N.J.A.C. 3A:52-4.3(a); 2. Understanding center operations, policies and procedures, as specified in N.J.A.C. 3A:52-4.5(b)3; 3. Implementing group size limits and primary caregiver responsibilities, as applicable, as specified in N.J.A.C. 3A:52-4.4; 4. Recognizing and reporting child abuse or neglect, as specified in N.J.A.C. 3A:52-4.9; 5. Evacuating the center and using the fire alarms, as specified in N.J.A.C. 3A:52-5.3(l); 6.Implementing the center’s release policy, as specified in N.J.A.C. 3A:52-6.5; 7. Implementing the center's statement of policy on the disciplining of children, as specified in N.J.A.C. 3A:52-6.6; 8. Implementing health practices, including medication administration and responding to symptoms of illness, as specified in N.J.A.C. 3A:52-7.1 through 7.11; 9. Implementing safe sleep practices to prevent Sudden Infant Death Syndrome; 10. Preventing Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma; 11. Recognizing and responding to injuries and emergencies, including the prevention of and response to emergencies due to food-related allergies and other allergic reactions; and 12. Including children with special needs in the center’s program.
Corrected 3/9/2026 - Medium-High risk2/6/2026
N.J.A.C. 3A:52-5.3(a)(1) — Ensure all surfaces are clean and in good repair. Repair tattered rug in room 5. Replace ripped children's blue sofa in room 6.
Ensure all surfaces are clean and in good repair. Repair tattered rug in room 5. Replace ripped children's blue sofa in room 6. Regulation: (a) Indoor maintenance and sanitation requirements are as follows: 1. The center shall be free of moisture resulting from water leaks or seepage. 2. Floors, carpeting, walls, window coverings, ceilings, and other surfaces shall be kept clean and in good repair. 4. Carpeting shall be securely fastened to the floor. 9. Toilets, wash basins, kitchen sinks, and other plumbing shall be maintained in good operating and sanitary condition.
Corrected 4/13/2026 - Medium-High risk2/6/2026
N.J.A.C. 3A:52-5.2(d) — Provide a current fire certificate as required. Expired.
Provide a current fire certificate as required. Expired. Regulation: An applicant seeking the renewal of a license or of a Certificate of Life/Safety Approval to continue operating a center shall obtain and maintain on file a fire safety inspection certificate for the building based on a fire inspection conducted within the preceding 12 months. If the center prepares meals, the applicant seeking renewal shall obtain and maintain on file a satisfactory Sanitary Inspection Certificate, as specified in N.J.A.C. 8:24, indicating that the kitchen is in compliance with the applicable requirements of the State Sanitary Code, based on a sanitary inspection conducted within the preceding 12 months.
Corrected 3/9/2026
2025
- Medium-High risk3/3/2025
N.J.A.C. 3A:52-5.3(q)(2)(i) — Operate within the center's licensed capacity and within each room's capacity. At the time of the inspection there were 8 children in room #3 wherein the licensed capacity is 6, 24 children in room #4 wherein the licensed ca
Operate within the center's licensed capacity and within each room's capacity. At the time of the inspection there were 8 children in room #3 wherein the licensed capacity is 6, 24 children in room #4 wherein the licensed capacity is 15, and there were 15 children in room #5 wherein the licensed capacity is 12. 3/21/2025: At the time of the inspection there were 17 children in room #4 wherein the licensed capacity is 15. Regulation: At no time shall a center: i. Allow more children in attendance than the licensed capacity as specified on the license or the Certificate of Life/Safety Approval; ii. Allow more children in attendance than the licensed room capacity;
Corrected 4/14/2025 - Medium-High risk3/3/2025
N.J.A.C. 3A:52-5.3(q)(2)(i) — Operate within the center's licensed capacity and within each room's capacity. At the time of the inspection, there were 67 children present in the center wherein the licensed capacity is 65.
Operate within the center's licensed capacity and within each room's capacity. At the time of the inspection, there were 67 children present in the center wherein the licensed capacity is 65. Regulation: At no time shall a center: i. Allow more children in attendance than the licensed capacity as specified on the license or the Certificate of Life/Safety Approval; ii. Allow more children in attendance than the licensed room capacity;
Corrected 3/21/2025 - Medium risk3/3/2025
N.J.A.C. 3A:52-5.3(c)(1) — Repair light ballasts in room #6 and in bathroom in room #4.
Repair light ballasts in room #6 and in bathroom in room #4. Regulation: Lighting requirements are as follows: all fluorescent tubes and incandescent light bulbs shall have protective covers or shields. During program activities, at least 20 foot-candles of natural or artificial light shall be provided in all rooms used by the children. This illumination shall be measured three feet above the floor at the farthest point from the light source. Parking areas, pedestrian walkways, or other exterior portions of the premises subject to use by center occupants at night shall be illuminated to provide safe entrance to and egress from the center.
Corrected 3/21/2025 - Medium-High risk3/3/2025
N.J.A.C. 3A:52-5.3(a)(5) — Ensure garbage receptacles are covered in rooms #4 and #6.
Ensure garbage receptacles are covered in rooms #4 and #6. Regulation: garbage receptacles shall be: made of durable, leak-proof and nonabsorbent materials; covered in a secure manner; emptied to the outdoor garbage receptacle when filled; maintained in a sanitary manner.
Corrected 3/21/2025 - Medium-High risk3/3/2025
N.J.A.C. 3A:52-5.3(a)(15) — Ensure that vents are free of dust throughout the center.
Ensure that vents are free of dust throughout the center. Regulation: Indoor maintenance and sanitation requirements are as follows: ventilation outlets shall be clean and free from obstructions, and filters shall be replaced when saturated.
Corrected 3/21/2025 - High risk3/3/2025
N.J.A.C. 3A:52-6.6(a) — Based on complaint #23938 staff need to use positive methods of guidance and discipline and not threaten food as a method of discipline. Staff member was heard saying that children will not receive a cupcake if they do not behave.
Based on complaint #23938 staff need to use positive methods of guidance and discipline and not threaten food as a method of discipline. Staff member was heard saying that children will not receive a cupcake if they do not behave. Regulation: (a) The methods of guidance and discipline used shall: 1. Be positive; 2. Be consistent with the age and developmental needs of the children; and 3. Lead to the child's ability to develop and maintain self-control. (b) Staff members shall not discipline children for failing to eat or sleep or for soiling themselves. (c) Staff shall not withhold active play time as a means of discipline unless the child's actions or behavior present a danger to themselves or others. (d) Children may be removed from a group activity to another area, provided that the child so removed is either under the supervision of another staff member or continuously visible to a staff member.
Corrected 3/21/2025 - High risk3/3/2025
N.J.A.C. 3A:52-4.3(c) — Ensure that adequate staff/child ratios are maintained at all times. At the time of the inspection there were 24 children with 1 staff member present in room #4 where 2 staff members are required and there were 14 children with 2
Ensure that adequate staff/child ratios are maintained at all times. At the time of the inspection there were 24 children with 1 staff member present in room #4 where 2 staff members are required and there were 14 children with 2 staff members in room #2 where 3 staff members are required. Regulation: (c) The following staff/child ratios shall apply, except as specified in (d) through (f) below: Under 18 months 1:4 18 months up to 2 ½ years 1:6 2 ½ years up to 4 years 1:10 4 years 1:12 5 years and older 1:15 (d) The following staff/child ratios shall apply during rest or sleep, when the criteria listed in (d) 1, 2, and 3 below are met: Under 18 months 18 months to under 2 ½ years 2 ½ years and above 1:10 1:12 1:20 2. A sufficient number of staff members shall be in the facility and readily accessible to ensure compliance with the awake staff/child ratios specified in (c) above.
Corrected 3/21/2025
2024
- Medium-High risk11/1/2024
N.J.A.C. 3A:52-5.3(a)(15) — Ensure that all vent covers are free of dust throughout the center.
Ensure that all vent covers are free of dust throughout the center. Regulation: Indoor maintenance and sanitation requirements are as follows: ventilation outlets shall be clean and free from obstructions, and filters shall be replaced when saturated.
Corrected 12/9/2024 - Medium-High risk11/1/2024
N.J.A.C. 3A:52-7.8(a)(4)(vi) — Ensure that staff wash their hands after coming into contact with nasal secretions throughout the center.
Ensure that staff wash their hands after coming into contact with nasal secretions throughout the center. Regulation: Handwashing requirements are as follows: staff members shall wash their hands with soap and running water immediately after coming into contact with blood, fecal matter, urine, vomit, nasal secretions, or other body fluids or secretions.
Corrected 12/9/2024 - Medium risk11/1/2024
N.J.A.C. 3A:52-6.4(i) — Cease the use of pacifier straps or other types of attachment devices. Staff member removed pacifier strap at the request of the inspector.
Cease the use of pacifier straps or other types of attachment devices. Staff member removed pacifier strap at the request of the inspector. Regulation: Children shall not use pacifiers with straps or other types of attachment devices.
Corrected 11/1/2024 - Medium-High risk11/1/2024
N.J.A.C. 3A:52-5.3(p) — Ensure that all bucket seats have straps in room #2.
Ensure that all bucket seats have straps in room #2. Regulation: Play equipment, materials, and furniture for indoor and outdoor use shall be of sturdy and safe construction, non-toxic, free of hazards, and used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. The center may not use play equipment intended for outdoor use indoors.
Corrected 12/9/2024
Showing the 25 most recent of 102 records on file; the full history loads with the interactive view.
Safety & Compliance Analysis
This daycare has multiple recorded violations. Review the details to make an informed decision.
(Past 6 Months)
Parent Recommendations
Based on the violation data, here are some recommendations:
- Review the detailed violations listed above.
- Ask the daycare about their response to these violations.
- Look at the correction status to see how quickly issues were addressed.
- Schedule a visit during regular hours to observe daily operations.
Note: This analysis is based on publicly available violation data and is intended as a tool to help parents make informed decisions. Always visit a daycare in person and ask specific questions about areas of concern.
Estimated monthly cost
$949/month
This is a modeled estimate — based on location, ages served, and program data — not the provider's actual tuition. Real prices vary by age group and services. Contact the daycare for current rates, fees, and availability.
Typical prices in New Jersey run about $1,247/month for infant care at a center (federal median) — see daycare costs in New Jersey by age group.
About this daycare
- Location: NORTH ARLINGTON, Bergen County
- Capacity: 65
- Type: Licensed Child Care Center
What parents actually pay
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