Mountain Lakes Country Day School
MOUNTAIN LAKES, NJ·Licensed Child Care CenterLicensed
Contact information
Address356 Route 46 E, Mountain Lakes, NJ, 07046
CountyMorris
Phone973-983-9831
Websitehttp://MLCDS.com
Operating details
Capacity90
Compliance snapshot
Last inspection: 1/22/2026 · Counts cover the full published inspection history; search results show the past 2 years.
- High9
- Medium-High10
- Medium5
- Medium-Low1
- Low0
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Location
Using Address for Location
Exact coordinates aren't available, but you can view this location at:
356 Route 46 E, Mountain Lakes, NJ, 07046, MOUNTAIN LAKES, NJ 07046
Questions to ask on a tour
Chosen for this facility's inspection history and profile — bring them along on your visit.
- 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
- Ask about their security measures, visitor policy, and pickup procedures
Violation summary
Last 2 years · Last inspection: 1/22/2026
- High9
- Medium-High10
- Medium5
- Medium-Low1
- Low0
2026
- Medium-High risk1/22/2026
N.J.A.C. 3A:52-5.3(p) — Ensure that all indoor equipment is sturdy, safe, free of hazards and used in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. Secure shelving in Toddler 2 room and remove excess storage on top of cabinet.
Ensure that all indoor equipment is sturdy, safe, free of hazards and used in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. Secure shelving in Toddler 2 room and remove excess storage on top of cabinet. 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 2/19/2026 - High risk1/22/2026
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's license renewal.
Ensure that CARI background checks are completed as required for the sponsor/sponsor representative and all regularly scheduled staff for the center's license renewal. 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 2/19/2026 - High risk1/22/2026
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. A named child in the Infant room, requires a physician signature for Health Action 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 2/19/2026 - High risk1/22/2026
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. A named child in the Preschool 2 room had expired Albuterol. The center shall send back the expired medication and obtain current medication for the child. 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 2/19/2026 - High risk1/22/2026
N.J.A.C. 3A:52-5.3(n)(1) — At the time of the inspection, a toy was observed inside of an evacuation crib. A discussion regarding evacuation cribs being empty was had with classroom staff and administration.
At the time of the inspection, a toy was observed inside of an evacuation crib. A discussion regarding evacuation cribs being empty was had with classroom staff and administration. Regulation: Fire prevention requirements are as follows: the center shall conduct fire drills at least once a month, as specified in the NJUFC. The center shall ensure that fire drills are conducted during each session provided at the center and that one fire drill per year is conducted during nap time, if applicable. The center shall ensure that all children present are evacuated from the building within three minutes during each fire drill.
Corrected 2/19/2026 - Medium risk1/22/2026
N.J.A.C. 3A:52-5.3(c)(1) — Provide adequate lighting as required. Ensure all fluorescent tubes and incandescent light bulbs have protective covers or shields. Replace light bulbs in MPR, Toddler 2 and Infant room.
Provide adequate lighting as required. Ensure all fluorescent tubes and incandescent light bulbs have protective covers or shields. Replace light bulbs in MPR, Toddler 2 and Infant room. 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 2/19/2026 - Medium-High risk1/22/2026
N.J.A.C. 3A:52-5.3(a)(3) — Ensure that all stairways are free of tripping hazards. Repair torn carpet seam in Toddler 2 room (near white shelving units).
Ensure that all stairways are free of tripping hazards. Repair torn carpet seam in Toddler 2 room (near white shelving units). Regulation: Indoor maintenance and sanitation requirements are as follows: stairways shall be free of tripping hazards, such as toys, boxes, loose steps, uneven treads, torn carpeting, raised strips, or uneven risers.
Corrected 2/19/2026 - Medium-High risk1/22/2026
N.J.A.C. 3A:52-5.3(a)(1) — Ensure all surfaces are clean and in good repair including
Ensure all surfaces are clean and in good repair including 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 2/19/2026 - Medium-High risk1/22/2026
N.J.A.C. 3A:52-5.3(a)(1) — Ensure all surfaces are clean and in good repair including Clean microwave in Preschool 1 room.
Ensure all surfaces are clean and in good repair including Clean microwave in Preschool 1 room. 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 2/19/2026 - Medium-High risk1/22/2026
N.J.A.C. 3A:52-5.3(a)(1) — Ensure all surfaces are clean and in good repair including Clean under changing mat in Infant room.
Ensure all surfaces are clean and in good repair including Clean under changing mat in Infant room. 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 2/19/2026 - Medium-High risk1/22/2026
N.J.A.C. 3A:52-5.3(a)(1) — Ensure all surfaces are clean and in good repair including Clean under changing mat in Toddler 1 room.
Ensure all surfaces are clean and in good repair including Clean under changing mat in Toddler 1 room. 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 2/19/2026 - Medium-High risk1/22/2026
N.J.A.C. 3A:52-5.3(a)(1) — Ensure all surfaces are clean and in good repair including Clean under changing mat in Toddler room.
Ensure all surfaces are clean and in good repair including Clean under changing mat in Toddler room. 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 2/19/2026 - Medium-High risk1/22/2026
N.J.A.C. 3A:52-5.3(a)(1) — Ensure all surfaces are clean and in good repair including Provide a more secure cabinet latch in MPR.
Ensure all surfaces are clean and in good repair including Provide a more secure cabinet latch in MPR. 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 2/19/2026 - High risk1/22/2026
N.J.A.C. 3A:52-4.10(a)(4) — Ensure staff without a cleared CARI are not left alone to supervise children at any time. Renewal CARI's for staff pending.
Ensure staff without a cleared CARI are not left alone to supervise children at any time. Renewal CARI's for staff pending. Regulation: When a person who is not required to complete a CARI background check is working with children at the center, the center shall ensure oversight of that person by another staff member and ensure that person is not left alone to supervise a child or group of children.
Corrected 2/19/2026 - Medium risk1/22/2026
N.J.A.C. 3A:52-7.7(a)(1)(ii) — Ensure a self-made solution of bleach and water is made daily and in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. Pre K room did not have the appropriate disinfecting solution.
Ensure a self-made solution of bleach and water is made daily and in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. Pre K room did not have the appropriate disinfecting solution. Regulation: Disinfectants shall be used as follows: the center shall disinfect those items specified in N.J.A.C. 3A:52-7.7(a)3 with a solution that shall be a self-made solution consisting of one-quarter cup of household bleach to each gallon of water (one tablespoon per quart), which shall be prepared daily and placed in a labeled, sealed container.
Corrected 2/19/2026 - Medium risk1/22/2026
N.J.A.C. 3A:52-7.7(a)(1)(i) — Ensure a commercially prepared disinfectant is used in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
Ensure a commercially prepared disinfectant is used in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. Regulation: Disinfectants shall be used as follows: the center shall disinfect those items specified in N.J.A.C. 3A:52-7.7(a)3 with a solution that shall be a commercially prepared disinfectant that indicates it kills bacteria, viruses, and parasites. This solution shall be used in accordance with label instructions.
Corrected 2/19/2026 - Medium-High risk1/22/2026
N.J.A.C. 3A:52-7.8(d)(1)(ii)(3) — Ensure that diapering surfaces are flat, smooth, clean, dry, non-absorbent and in good repair. Infant room: small tear in changing mat.
Ensure that diapering surfaces are flat, smooth, clean, dry, non-absorbent and in good repair. Infant room: small tear in changing mat. Regulation: the diapering surface shall be flat, smooth, clean, dry, non-absorbent, and in good repair.
Corrected 2/19/2026 - Medium risk1/22/2026
N.J.A.C. 3A:52-6.3(b)(3)(iv)(1) — Ensure that each child's bottle is labeled with the child's name and date. Infant room: named child had a sippie cup with milk and no old date on cup.
Ensure that each child's bottle is labeled with the child's name and date. Infant room: named child had a sippie cup with milk and no old date on cup. Regulation: Feeding requirements for centers serving children less than 18 months of age are as follows: for bottles, each child's bottle(s) shall be labeled with the child's name and dated.
Corrected 2/19/2026 - Medium risk1/22/2026
N.J.A.C. 3A:52-5.3(e) — Provide protective coverings for all fans that are accessible to children. Secure shelving in Preschool room and remove excess storage on top of cabinet.
Provide protective coverings for all fans that are accessible to children. Secure shelving in Preschool room and remove excess storage on top of cabinet. Regulation: All fans that are accessible to the children shall have a grille, screen, mesh, or other protective covering.
Corrected 2/19/2026
2024
- High risk11/12/2024
N.J.A.C. 3A:52-7.5(b)(7) — Maintain medication records that include the following: child's name; parental authorization; name of medication or health care procedure; illness being treated; instructions for administration, including the dosage and frequenc
Maintain medication records that include the following: child's name; parental authorization; name of medication or health care procedure; illness being treated; instructions for administration, including the dosage and frequency; the date and time medication was administered and the name or initials of the staff member who administered it; and any adverse effect the medication can have or has had on the child. Regulation: 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: the center shall maintain on file a record of the following: the child's name and parental authorization for the center to administer medication or health care procedures; the name of the medication or health care procedure; the condition for which the medication or health care procedure is being used; the instructions for administration, including the dosage and frequency; the date and time medication or a health care procedure was administered to a child and the name or initials of the staff member who administered it; and any adverse effect the medication can have or has had on the child.
Corrected 12/10/2024 - High risk11/12/2024
N.J.A.C. 3A:52-4.8(d)(1) — Ensure that all credentialed staff complete 20 hours of staff development annually. The center shall ensure that all staff development records are completed: document Orientation training hours and obtain staff signatures. All r
Ensure that all credentialed staff complete 20 hours of staff development annually. The center shall ensure that all staff development records are completed: document Orientation training hours and obtain staff signatures. All regularly scheduled staff must have 20 hours of training. Regulation: In lieu of the child care staff development specified in N.J.A.C. 3A:52-4.8(b), 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 12/10/2024 - Medium-High risk11/12/2024
N.J.A.C. 3A:52-5.3(a)(16) — Repair and/or paint the walls, bathroom stalls, and other surfaces as required. Repair chipped/rusted black metal trim in bathroom located in Room 1.
Repair and/or paint the walls, bathroom stalls, and other surfaces as required. Repair chipped/rusted black metal trim in bathroom located in Room 1. Regulation: Indoor maintenance and sanitation requirements are as follows: walls shall be painted or otherwise covered whenever there is evidence of: excessive peeling or chipped paint; or heavily soiled conditions.
Corrected 12/10/2024 - High risk11/12/2024
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 or other equivalent documentation from a healthcare provider, and that two are present when two are r
Ensure Epi-pens are stored in their original boxes with the child's name and prescription, accompanied by a special care plan or other equivalent documentation from a healthcare provider, and that two are present when two are required by the plan. 1 named child's Health Action plan was not available for review at the time of the inspection. The center shall ensure that the Health Action plan is signed by the parent and physician. Regulation: 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: 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 12/10/2024 - High risk11/12/2024
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 or other equivalent documentation from a healthcare provider, and that two are present when two are r
Ensure Epi-pens are stored in their original boxes with the child's name and prescription, accompanied by a special care plan or other equivalent documentation from a healthcare provider, and that two are present when two are required by the plan. 1 named child's Health Action plan indicated that the child was asthmatic. The center shall verify if the child requires medication for asthma. Regulation: 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: 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 12/10/2024 - Medium-Low risk11/12/2024
N.J.A.C. 3A:52-4.8(c) — Ensure that all staff complete 12 hours of staff development annually. The center shall ensure that all staff development records are completed: document Orientation training hours and obtain staff signatures. All regularly schedul
Ensure that all staff complete 12 hours of staff development annually. The center shall ensure that all staff development records are completed: document Orientation training hours and obtain staff signatures. All regularly scheduled staff must have 12 hours of training. Regulation: The center shall ensure that all staff members who work at the center complete 12 hours of continuing staff development each year.
Corrected 12/10/2024
Showing the 25 most recent of 43 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: MOUNTAIN LAKES, Morris County
- Capacity: 90
- Type: Licensed Child Care Center
What parents actually pay
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