As a per diem occupational therapist who works all over northern New Jersey and a mom to two energetic little ones, finding flexible, high-quality childcare has always been a real priority for our family. Add in my husband Jason’s ever-changing schedule in law enforcement, limited external help, and our need for something beyond just traditional daycare, and you can imagine the challenge!

That’s why we were so excited to discover Celebree School of Branchburg‑Somerville, conveniently located at 1005 US-202, Somerville, NJ 08876, practically a perfect fit for families like ours who don’t always need full-time care (though that is offered for ages 6 weeks through 13 years).

A Location That Works With Our Busy Life

One of the biggest advantages of Celebree School of Branchburg‑Somerville for us is how accessible it is. Being right off US-202 makes drop-offs and pick-ups easy whether I’m heading into a work shift at a nearby nursing home or squeezing in a quick Costco run or yoga class between early intervention clients. Its Hours, typically 6:30AM to 6:30PM, perfectly accommodate the unpredictable hours of healthcare and law enforcement work.

More Than Just Childcare: A Supportive, Enriching Environment

During our tour, we immediately noticed the intentional, thoughtful design of the space. As an occupational therapist, I couldn’t help but appreciate:

• Safety and security – with cameras throughout the building and a nut-free policy to protect kids with allergies.
• Bright, clean classrooms full of natural sunlight which is ideal for engagement and mood. The cleanliness is unparalleled. I have worked with many children at schools and daycares and Celebree takes cleanliness and sanitization very seriously.
• Calming privacy cubes – similar to calm-down corners where kids can choose tools like regulating cards (“I am peaceful”), worry stones, or sensory toys to help them regain composure when needed.
• Open-ended play materials – sensory stations, musical instruments, blocks, games, light tables, figures; everything that helps promote child-led exploration and learning.

Both of our kids were instantly occupied and happy in the classrooms. It was actually fascinating to watch which stations they gravitated toward, which games held their attention, and of course which new musical instruments they suddenly needed me to buy. Hard no. They can enjoy those at Celebree School of Branchburg‑Somerville. Just kidding, readers. 😉

Conscious Discipline: Learning Emotional Skills That Matter

What truly stood out to me was Celebree School of Branchburg‑Somerville’s use of Conscious Discipline, a curriculum that helps children learn crucial social-emotional skills including things like:

• Positive intent
• Composure and assertiveness
• Choices and encouragement
• Consequences and empathy

These are real life skills that help kids regulate behavior, communicate how they feel, and interact respectfully with others and it’s woven into daily activities, not just an add-on.

Our Summer Plans: Drop-In Care That Lets Life Flow

With summer fast approaching, we’re planning to drop the kids off at Celebree School of Branchburg‑Somerville so I can get a full shift in at a nearby nursing home, see a child for early intervention, and Jason can work as per usual without worry. Afterward, maybe I’ll sneak in a yoga class, run errands, or just grab a quiet coffee. The peace of mind that our kids are in a warm, loving, bright, and enriching environment is truly priceless.

Special Offer for Realm of Vibes Readers

Make sure you schedule a tour with Celebree School of Branchburg‑Somervilleand don’t forget to mention my name — Danielle Gould from Realm of Vibes — you’ll receive 1 week of childcare FREE on top of whatever promotion Celebree is currently offering (that’s approximately a $500 value!). So, whether you’re looking for full-time, part-time, or drop-in childcare, Celebree should absolutely be considered!

To learn more, visit Celebree School of Branchburg‑Somerville’s website and be sure to follow them on Instagram to see daily classroom moments, enrichment activities, and updates. My reel on Celebree is posted here.

Here is a Pinterest pin to save to your board!