Children at Step Ahead are offered an inclusive environment in which to learn. The program provides services to both special needs and typically developing children birth to five years old.

Through child-centered experiences, children are encouraged to explore and foster development in all areas including social/emotional, physical, language and cognition. The importance of stimulating the potential for growth is especially critical for children with special needs. In a curriculum tailor-designed to address specific areas of concern in a child's development, a child is inspired to achieve goals. The mission of the Step Ahead is to maximize the potential for growth in all children. Working together with parents, the staff can prepare a child so that the crucial first steps on the journey to learning is begun on solid ground.

Climbing, Jumping, Leaping!

In our newly renovated facility, children will have the opportunity to play in the indoor interactive playgym, romp in a brand-new outdoor playground, and learn in 4 new classrooms. The center is equipped with computers installed with various educational software.

A typical day is scheduled to include a balance of activities from morning circle, structured activity time, snack time, motor development/planning, messy play, lunch followed by a rest period/nap time as appropriate for the different age groups. An Aftercare program provides continued learning activities and extended playtime.

In addition to time spent in child-directed play, there are organized circles of small and large group activities in our brightly colored multipurpose room with a spectacular mural of painted jungle animals and other safari-type animals scattered throughout.

Developmental Programs

We offer programs according to age and ability from birth to five years.
Children will be grouped in the following manner:

• Koala Bears (Youngest and/or Medically Frail)
• Panda Bears (Intermediate Group)
• Polar Bears (Preschool)
• Zebras (Toddler Group)

Step Ahead participates in the Trenton Board of Education Abbott Program which offers free Preschool for 3 and 4 year olds in the Trenton School District.

The center offers extended childcare to all children. Program hours will be from 7:00 am to 6:00 PM, Monday through Friday. We also offer after-school programs for children up to nine years and a drop-off respite program for families on Saturdays.

A Saturday drop-off respite program is in the planning stages.

Become a Member of our Learning Safari

To enroll your child, an application must be filled out and submitted. We accept applications all throughout the school year until the classes are filled and then a waiting list is established.

Children ages birth through three with developmental delays are enrolled through Mercer County Special Childhealth Services. Parents of typically developing children must submit an application. The Center will be closed for all federal holidays and in-service teacher workshops.