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Manahawkin Parent Reviews & Testimonials

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Our Caring & Experienced Staff

Teacher quality remains the top reason why families choose The Learning Experience Manahawkin.

Katie C.

From the first time I walked here nearly 5 years ago, it felt like my second home to me. From meeting the staff, the children and families i felt welcomed with love, compassion. Friendliness. I was so happy to begin my journey here and to this day I feel so welcomed and I still feel the same way I did when I started working here nearly 5 years ago and TLE is still my second home! I am so Loved everyday by everyone. I love working here alot! It has changed my life and has helped me build better communication skills. Confidence and overcome my shyness! TLE is the best!

Jolie A.

I can not say enough good things about TLE in Manahawkin !! The staff are all amazing and most importantly I have peace of mind knowing my daughter is safe, well cared for, and learning in a structured environment every day. She has been there a year now, just turned 3, and I couldn't be happier with the choice we made and the progress we have seen in our daughter. She was quickly surprising us daily with new words and skills she learned. Interaction with Staff is always pleasant... And teachers are always understanding and supportive of changes or concerns. They genuinely care about parents and students as family. As a first time mom I hesitated to start daycare and leave my daughter with strangers, but if I could go back and do anything different I swear I would have started her sooner!!! I am so happy and impressed with TLE Manahawkin, I highly recommend their daycare/early education program for your family too!! I am already amazed at what my daughter has learned and how she has grown.. I can only imagine in 2 more years where this little learner is going to go!!

Nikka M.

Stepping into TLE - Manahawkin felt like entering a warm, nurturing environment where every child's happiness and growth mattered. The tour was exceptional; the day care administrator, Sara, gave us a firsthand look at the engaging activities and cozy spaces designed for kids to thrive. The owners, Colleena and Shaleen, radiate genuine care and dedication, evident in their personalized approach to each child's needs. The administrator's kindness and sincerity made us feel like part of the TLE family even before our daughter started attending. TLE happened to be the first day care on our list to check out. We were thoroughly impressed that we didn’t even bother to tour the other day cares on our list. Also as a new mom, the transition was seamless, thanks to the supportive staff who understood my concerns and offered reassurance every step of the way. And lastly the teachers…They're simply amazing—passionate, attentive, and overflowing with love for the children they care for. TLE - Manahawkin truly shines as a beacon of excellence in childcare.

Safety & Peace of Mind

Manahawkin families consistently report feeling secure about the supervision, entry protocols, and overall safety standards at our Center.

Jennifer R.

As a first time mom just returning to work, my anxiety to find the perfect place for my son was astronomical. But I knew from the moment I took a tour, and after reading so many amazing reviews, I found the perfect place. I’m able to work rest assured that my son is in great hands. From our first day on, I have felt always welcomed, and each teacher has always introduced themselves and told me fun stories about my sons day. We have only started attending a short time, but I already see my son reaching milestones so much more quickly then he was before, and I have never been happier! I’m so happy I found the perfect place for my son where I know he is cared for and loved while I am working.

Sara

As parents we are faced with so many difficult decisions. The decision to enroll my daughter at the TLE of Manahawkin was one of the best decisions I have made. Kacey started when she was about 20 months old and has been attending ever since. After she graduated. she stayed in the before and after school program and summer camp. When she start kindergarten she was very prepared for what she would be learning. TLE has a state of the art curriculum from sign language, phonics and the numerous enrichment programs. When she walked through the door for the first time, she not only entered her 1st school. but became part of a family. I am so thankful for the love and care that she has received over the years.

K

My daughter started at the Manahawkin location when she was 20 months old. We quickly not only had a peace of mind knowing she was being cared for, but became part of an extended family and support system. This is a saying"it takes a.village to raise a child" well I'm happy say my village includes the owners and staff of The Learning Experience!

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Cleanliness & Classroom Environment

Our parents regularly comment on the exceptional hygiene standards and welcoming atmosphere of our Manahawkin classrooms.

Karen D.

When we were looking for a new daycare for our older son, Jake, we were weary after our first daycare experience. After our first visit to TLE, we knew immediately that TLE was more than a daycare...it was a home away from home and a nurturing environment for the children and teachers alike. In July we welcomed Alex and like any mom, I was nervous on my first day back to work. As anxious as I was, Ms. Erin and Ms. Christina were equally as excited to welcome Alex. Anyone who has seen Alex at school knows he LOVES Ms. Erin and Ms. Christina! As parents, there's nothing more exciting than seeing your children grow into curious learners and little boys and girls that are encouraged to be themselves. For those reasons (and so many more!), we love TLE and especially the teachers and owners that make it so special!

Allie K.

My daughter Taylor attended TLE Manahawkin for 4 years and is now excelling in school both socially and academically. The curriculum and the love and guidance from the teachers has truly been a blessing. In January, we welcomed a son, Ryan, and there was no question about who we would trust to care for him. Christina and Erin are an absolute gift! We are never worried about how Ryan's day is going when he is with his TLE family!

Patricia D.

I can't say enough about this school & staff! Extremely well maintained, clean & well secured. My son loves going & actually requested we send him 5 days a week instead of the 3 days he initially was enrolled for. So we did & can't be happier. Shaleen, Colleena, Ms. Kelly & My sons teacher Ms. Jeannine are all wonderful, loving & caring. Oh & can't forget Ms. Kristen who prepares the provided lunch -how great is that?- She is the sweetest & has gotten my son to eat and or at least try a variety of healthy foods! Love you TLE Manahawkin !!!!!!!!!!

Learning, Development, & Child Growth

Some of the most meaningful feedback we receive is about the tangible growth and academic progress parents see in their children after enrolling at our Center.

Explore the L.E.A.P. curriculum
Travis M.

Both our children have been going here since they were about 8 weeks old; they are now 4 yrs and 1.5 years old. I cannot recommend a better place to take your children. Every day our children amaze us with the things they are learning. Our daughter was singing about the continents and explained to me how mommy is from Asia and had to come across the ocean to find daddy. She’s even been correcting some of the sloppy grammar we WERE using at home. We have a wall of projects that show how our children have progressed from simple scribbling to a drawing of the Rhode Island state bird (the Red Chicken….which my daughter now knows). Our son is now using sign language to tell us what he wants, and is ASKING to wash his hands when they get dirty. The teachers are very open and caring, keeping us informed of our children’s progression and areas that we may want to focus on at home. Overall we are very happy, and wholeheartedly recommend this center to our friends, family, and co-workers.

Jenn

My son started TLE about 2 months ago and this is one of the best decisions we have ever made for him. Prior to starting TLE my son had speech therapy 2x a week for approximately one year. In the less then 8 weeks he's been attending school on a part time basis we noticed his language skill improve immensely from 2-3 word sentences to 5-10 word sentences. This academic setting is exactly what he needed to help him learn new sounds and express himself better. The staff is friendly and caring and will always answer any questions I have about my sons day. Thank you for such an amazing experience!

Enjolic

My daughter Aliza started at TLE when she was 10 weeks old. From the moment we walked in on her first day I knew I had made the right decision bringing her there. As a working mom it is very important to me to know that my baby is being well taking care of. The infant teachers have been absolutely amazing and very accommodating to all of our needs. To know my child is so loved and in good hands is absolutely priceless. I also want to thank the owners and director of the center for all their dedication and love for all the children in their care. I feel so blessed to be apart of this TLE family and can't wait to see what the future holds for us at TLE of Manahawkin.

Kindergarten Readiness and School Preparation

One of the most common reasons families choose The Learning Experience Manahawkin is our whole-child approach to kindergarten readiness.

Sara

My daughter Kacey began attending The Learning Experience of Manahawkin when she was 20 months old. She recently turned 4 and I couldn’t be happier with the decision of sending her to TLE. Not only does she love going everyday to play with all her friends, but she is learning so much! She recently began reading! I have always loved sitting down every night for story time, but now she gets so excited when it is her time to read me one of her Phonics books. The curriculum at The Learning Experience is like no other school has to offer! I can go to work knowing that Kacey is learning and being loved by her wonderful teachers.

Mallory

Kennedy (27 months) has been attending school at The Learning Experience of Manahawkin since she was 8 weeks old. Not only does she still know and love her previous teachers from Infant A, Infant B, and Toddler, but they all love her and have provided and nurturing environment for my daughter. Management has been exceptionally caring and always ensures that my daughter's needs are being met and followed up on. Kennedy is now in the fun and exciting Twaddler room. She comes home everyday with a smile on her face when I pick her up. The curriculum is outstanding and the hot lunch program makes my life much easier when getting ready in the morning. They provide am and pm snack as well. All the food on the menu is healthy. I highly recommend this academy of learning to anyone who lives, or works in or around the Manahawkin area. Thank you TLE for all your love and devotion! Cha Cha, Sha Sha & Miss Kelly you are lovely and have put my mind at ease when I drop my baby girl off at school.

Ericka

Cameron (4.5) and Sydney (2.5) have been attending TLE Manahawkin since they were both 1 year. Sydney has special needs and TLE welcomed her with open arms. To see my kids thriving in this learning environment is such a wonderful feeling. I leave them every morning knowing they are safe and loved by their teachers and owners (Shaleen and Colleena). I am always amazed by the cirriculum and to see what they learn every day. Not only do they learn letters, phonics, math and science. But they are also learning about philantrophy and manners. The kids are always so excited when we get their and never want to leave at night. We Love TLE!

Is your child ready for kindergarten? Measured independently by COR Advantage during the 2025-2026 school year, our preschoolers achieve 97% kindergarten readiness.

Learn About L.E.A.P

Communication with Parents

Families consistently praise the responsiveness of our team, receiving daily updates through the Bubbles and Friends app, including photos, meal reports, nap times, and activity summaries.

  • Parent-teacher scheduling
  • Immediate incident communication
  • Open-door classroom visits
Christina

RJ started at TLE in the Prepper room. I was scared, sad and apprehensive about putting him into school after staying home with him since he was born but looking back I'm so glad that I did. I know that when I leave him in the morning he is loved, cared for and taught by an amazing group of people. The difference between TLE and other daycare centers is huge but the main thing that stands out to me is how much Shaleen, Colleena and Kelly truly love the kids as if they are their own as do all of RJ's current and past teachers. I want to thank all of you for all the hard work you've put into helping RJ grow into the boy he has become!

Samantha R.

Sending our two children to TLE was the best decision! Their preschool program has been phenomenal. My 4 year old is excited about going to school, learning new things, and most importantly, loves his teachers. Ms. Alison, Ms. Enjolic, and now Ms. Nicole are three amazing people. Andy has made leaps and bounds since his first day there. The toddler program is great as well. My 2 year old enjoys being there and has fun while learning. Ms. Tiffany is so fantastic with him. The front staff (Coleena, Shaleen, and Kelly) are professional, kind, and always greet you and your child by name. Even the teachers my boys do not have regularly always greet them by name and with a smile. It feels like a wonderful family here at TLE and I have no doubt that my boys are being well taken care of and are being prepared for school. Thank you TLE!

Nicole

Emily has been attending TLE Manahawkin since she was 3 months old and there is no other childcare that I would ever send her too. Everyone in the center knows who she is and greats her with a smile and good morning every day. I am so lucky to have such a loving "family" and support system at TLE. I know that when I drop her off each morning she will be loved and well cared for. I love all the new things she learns even as an infant!

Why Manahawkin Families Choose Our Center

Across 86+ reviews, Manahawkin families consistently highlight the same strengths.

  • Attentive, caring teachers

    Staff who know each child by name and build genuine relationships

  • Clean, organized classrooms

    High hygiene standards and well-maintained learning spaces

  • A strong learning environment

    Structured curriculum with measurable developmental outcomes

  • Children excited to attend

    Kids who look forward to school and ask to go on weekends

  • Noticeable developmental progress

    Parents see real growth in confidence, language, and social skills

  • Responsive communication

    Daily updates, open-door policy, and proactive parent outreach

*Reviews on this page are sourced from Google Business Profile and internal parent satisfaction surveys. We do not edit, filter, or fabricate reviews.

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Rated 4.7/5

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The Learning Experience Manahawkin | 1600 NJ-72, Manahawkin, NJ 08050
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