Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Peppermint Tree: Trusted Child Development Center in Toms River
Established in 1975, we provide warm, nurturing, and educational childcare for children starting at age 2. Our program utilizes The Creative Curriculum, aligned with the Toms River School System, ensuring children are well-prepared for elementary school. Our four-star rating by the New Jersey Department of Education reflects our commitment to high-quality early education. Our credentialed teachers deliver a research-based, developmentally appropriate curriculum that emphasizes social-emotional growth, hands-on learning, and exploration in both indoor and outdoor environments. Our facility features a park-like playground, in-ground swimming pools, and gardens that support experiential learning about nature and healthy eating.We are proud to be an Implementation Site for the Pyramid Model, which supports children in developing emotional regulation and social skills. Our community extends beyond the classroom through regular parent meetings, workshops, and family events. With over 45 years of experience, we combine deep expertise with a passion for early childhood education. Our team is dedicated to creating a safe, joyful, and stimulating environment where every child thrives. We prioritize transparency, communication, and partnership with families to ensure the best outcomes for each child.
Services
Childcare
Preschool
Summer Camp
After-School Programs
Parent Workshops
Details
- Year established: 1975
Highlights and features
- We are a four-star rated early childhood program by the New Jersey Department of Education.
- Our teachers are credentialed and use the same preschool curriculum as the Toms River public schools.
- We are an Implementation Site for the Pyramid Model supporting social-emotional development.
- Our facility includes a park-like playground, in-ground swimming pools, and educational gardens.
- We offer a seamless transition to elementary school with a research-based, developmentally appropriate curriculum.
What people say
Kind and caring staff
Developmentally appropriate curriculum
Clean and safe environment
Excellent social-emotional support
Seamless transition to elementary school
Services
Childcare
Our childcare program provides a nurturing environment for children aged 2 and up. We focus on social-emotional development, hands-on learning, and school readiness through structured activities and free play. Our credentialed teachers use a research-based curriculum to support each child's growth. The program includes access to outdoor playgrounds, gardens, and enrichment activities.
Preschool
Our preschool program follows The Creative Curriculum, aligned with the Toms River School System. Children engage in art, science, pre-reading, and math activities designed to foster curiosity and critical thinking. Daily outdoor play and garden exploration enhance learning. The program prepares children for kindergarten with a focus on social skills and emotional development.
Summer Camp
Our summer camp offers themed activities, swimming in on-site pools, and field trips for children aged 2 through 5th grade. Daily schedules include arts, sports, science experiments, and nature exploration. Optional activities like field trips are available. The program emphasizes fun, friendship, and continued learning throughout the summer months.
After-School Programs
After-school programs provide structured activities for elementary students, including homework help, arts, athletics, and cultural enrichment. Children participate in age-appropriate projects, games, and service activities. The program supports academic growth and social development while offering a safe, engaging environment after school hours.
Parent Workshops
We offer workshops to help parents support their child's development and education. Topics include nutrition, social-emotional learning, and school readiness. Workshops provide practical strategies for fostering growth at home. These sessions strengthen the partnership between families and our educators to ensure consistent support for each child.
People
Valerie Frost-Lewis
Director
Valerie Frost-Lewis, MS Ed., leads Peppermint Tree with over 45 years of experience in early childhood education. She is dedicated to creating a nurturing environment that prioritizes social-emotional development and school readiness. Her leadership ensures alignment with state standards and fosters a strong sense of community among families and staff.
Questions
What age groups do you serve?
We serve children aged 2 through pre-kindergarten and offer after-school programs for elementary students.
Is your curriculum aligned with school readiness standards?
Yes, we use The Creative Curriculum, which aligns with the Toms River School System for kindergarten readiness.
Do you offer summer camp programs?
Yes, our summer camp includes daily swimming, themed activities, and field trips for children aged 2 through 5th grade.
Are meals provided?
Children bring lunch and snacks from home; we provide milk and emphasize healthy eating habits.
What safety certifications do your staff hold?
Our staff is CPR and First Aid certified, with lifeguards on duty during swimming activities.
How do you support social-emotional development?
We use the Pyramid Model framework to teach emotional regulation, empathy, and pro-social behaviors.
