Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Stellar Academy located?

We have two schools. Stellar Academy of Bridgewater is located at 757 Route 202/206 in Bridgewater, New Jersey (one mile north of the Bridgewater Commons Mall), within minutes of Routes 287, 22, 78 and 28. Stellar Academy of Hillsborough is located at 51 US Highway 206 in Hillsborough, NJ (about 2 miles from the Somerville circle).

What programs does Stellar Academy offer?

Our youngest children, infant through 2 years old, are cared for and nurtured in a zone all their own. These zones (Infant and Toddler Heaven) are expertly equipped and designed to enhance a child's developing mind. Our older children, ages 2 through 6, take advantage of our Learning Zones, while maintaining the same low child to teacher ratio. We understand that tenderly responding to each child is essential for their physical and emotional growth.

As children grow, so does their curiosity and ability to explore. Our older children, ages 2 through 6, visit each of our eight Learning Zones. As the children visit each zone, they participate in activities that are carefully crafted to nurture every aspect of their intelligence. We believe that every child should grow socially, emotionally and academically during their time at Stellar Academy. They are our blossoming stars!

What are the eight intelligences?

Researchers have redefined the idea of a single static intelligence. Eight types of intelligence or ways people have of interacting and perceiving the world have been identified.

Musical/Rhythmic - recognition of tonal patterns and sensitivity to rhythm
Verbal/Linguistic - the ability to use written and spoken words effectively
Logical/Mathematical - the ability to reason, think deductively, and use numbers effectively
Visual/Spatial - perceive spatial aspects of the world
Bodily/Kinesthetic - knowledge of one’s body and its physical movement
Naturalist - the ability to observe, classify, and categorize the natural world
Interpersonal - the capacity to understand and relate to other people
Intrapersonal - knowledge of self

The Stellar Academy logo contains our 'eight-pointed' star as a testament to our commitment to nurture all eight intelligences of your child.

What benefits will my child recieve from attending Stellar Academy?

Our Learning Zones and specifically crafted activities are constructed with an extensive knowledge of child development, neuroscience, cognitive science and education. This means that every child in our care is receiving the most developmentally appropriate education possible. Our graduates are socially, emotionally, and academically ready to move on to the next level of education. We understand that the greatest gift we can give your child is a love for learning. Learning and exploration should be fun and exciting. At Stellar Academy, we never forget that we are building the foundation for a lifetime of learning.

Why is there a different room/zone for each intelligence?

For our children, immersion is the key to success. A principal ideal of brain-based learning states, "teachers need to orchestrate the immersion of the learner in interactive experiences that are both rich and real." At Stellar Academy, we offer an environment that is unmatched in that ideal. We believe to adequately stimulate and enhance our students' eight intelligences it is necessary for children to spend quality time in an environment dedicated solely to that intelligence. Brain research also indicates that children need movement and change to stay motivated. This leads to exploration and with exploration, comes learning. Children are excited and challenged as they move from Learning Zone to Learning Zone.

Why is there a need to nurture a child’s eight different intelligences?

We realize that the early years are a vital time to nurture and enhance all aspects of intelligence. In fact, research has shown that some skills are more easily learned in the early years. We know that the experiences a child has at an early age can set the stage for a life of successful learning and living. Awakening each intelligence at an early age, permits faster and further growth for that intelligence in the future.

Who developed the curriculum objectives for Stellar Academy?

The curriculum objectives at Stellar Academy were developed by Dr. Maggie Buley. Dr. Maggie has a Ph.D. in Education and an extensive knowledge of brain-based learning. She has studied at Princeton and Rutgers Universities. In addition, she has taught all ages from preschool through college. Creating the optimum learning environment has won her many accolades. She is a multiple recipient of Teacher of the Year and chosen to be a member of the USA Today’s All U.S. Teacher Team. Every aspect of Stellar Academy is based on her philosophy that every child can excel given the appropriate experience in a nurturing environment.

What teaching methods are used at Stellar Academy?

We utilize developmentally appropriate activities in our Learning Zones. Our knowledge of the developmental stages of children insures that our activities are matched to the child’s level of thinking. This is essential. Carefully crafted activities promote self-esteem. Children feel good about themselves when they complete tasks successfully. Experts agree that positive self-esteem should be established early because it becomes more difficult to change as the child gets older. In each of the Learning Zones at Stellar Academy, children take part in activities and participate in “play with a purpose” as they build knowledge in a risk-free environment. Brain research has uncovered that learning is achieved as the brain restructures itself with each experience. Play is an important part of a child’s experience. At Stellar Academy, we realize the importance and value of play in the cognitive and emotional growth of a child. We encourage spontaneous and unrehearsed dramatic play that allows children to construct knowledge and develop intellectually.

Will my child get to play with blocks, books, puzzles, etc.?

Every Learning Zone at Stellar Academy is equipped with developmentally appropriate toys and games that promote social, emotional and academic success.

Why are there Teaching Specialists and Developmental Specialists at Stellar Academy?

At Stellar Academy, at least two professionals staff each Learning Zone. Our Developmental Specialists are early childhood professionals that remain with our children throughout the entire day. We know that learning happens when children feel comfortable and happy. Our Developmental Specialists provide a sense of security and stability for our children. Our Teaching Specialists are professionals with an expertise in one of the eight intelligences. These professionals staff each Learning Zone and orchestrate the developmentally appropriate activities that allow each child to nurture and enhance every aspect of this intelligence.

Does Stellar Academy offer a part-time schedule?

Stellar Academy has a five, three and two day program designed to fit your needs.

What is the tuition at Stellar Academy?

Stellar Academy’s tuition is comparable to other high-quality child care learning centers.

How is the program at Stellar Academy more cost-effective than other preschool programs?

Parents want their children to experience music, art, dance, sports, science and technology. This demands time and money. Many preschools have add-on programs that are offered for an additional fee. These programs, for the most part, are simply half-hour sessions once a week. We believe children need more than a few minutes of exposure in these areas. Immersing children in activities that stimulate these intelligences are a vital part of our program. Your child spends every minute of every day involved in enrichment activities because these opportunities are a vital part of our day!

What happens on Special Program Days at Stellar Academy?

Speakers, group activities and field trips are just some of the events reserved for our Special Program Days.

How does Stellar Academy provide for the safety and security of the children?

Stellar Academy realizes that safety and security for its preschoolers is essential. Access into the academy can only be accomplished by using a finger print entry system (Bridgewater) and a Key Fob system (Hillsborough). Each zone is equipped with a glass front that allows every staff member to monitor our students. Webcam viewing of all classrooms from the office allow for additional security.