Education center · Oradell, NJ · reviewed since 2018
iHow the Experts Score is calculatedEach factor is scored 0–100 on absolute terms (standing in the category can only raise it), then weighted; problems flagged in review highlights or a recent slide in ratings are subtracted:Satisfaction 59%96+56.3Reliability 26%92+24Value 15%93+14.2Craft & service penalty95−0.5Experts Score= 94Not enough data for replies to reviews; its weight is shared by the others.Grade A: A = 80+, B = 60–79, C = 40–59, D = 20–39. Needs 10+ reviews.94SCORE
AGradeiLetter from the Experts Score: A = 80+, B = 60–79, C = 40–59, D = 20–39, F = under 20.
#2 of 37 child development centersiPosition by Experts Score among all companies we track in this category. · better than 97%
5.0★★★★★40 Google reviews · 6 photos
100%five-star reviews
5.00★last 12 monthsiAverage stars on reviews from the last 12 months only.
0%1–2★, last 20 reviewsiShare of 1–2★ reviews in the last 24 months — or the 20 newest reviews when the company had fewer than 20 in that time.
Google reviewers rate Appletree Preschool five stars based on forty reviews, with the owner responding to a minority of comments. Parents consistently praise the staff's attentiveness, the structured curriculum, and the use of the Brightwheel app for daily updates and photos. The facility is described as clean and safe, supporting children's social and academic development from infancy through pre-kindergarten. One minor criticism notes that the building is older and less modern than competing centers, though this does not appear to affect the overall positive experience.
Google rating: 5.0 out of 5 from 40 reviews (100% five-star).
Reviews on this page: 40 Google reviews (39 with written comments).
Owner responses: the business replied to 38% of reviews.
Most recent review: August 25, 2026.
Service: Child Development Center serving Oradell, New Jersey.
Data from Google, last updated October 25, 2026.
Score profile vs other child development centers
Score per factor (100 = best)iEach factor is scored 0–100 on absolute terms (star average, share of 1–2★ reviews, price verdicts…); standing within the category can only raise it, never lower it.. Strongest: momentum and satisfaction; weakest: reliability.
This companyChild Development Centers median0 = centre, 100 = best
SatisfactioniSatisfaction · 54% of the scoreRecency-weighted star average (2-year half-life), shrunk toward the category mean by review volume; the company’s own lifetime average as the prior; absolute: 4.0★ = 0, 5★ = 100.Appletree Preschool - River Edge: 96/100 on this factor. Category median: 73.A
96
ReliabilityiReliability · 24% of the scoreHow rarely jobs go badly: share of 1–2★ reviews — 60% the last 24 months (or the 20 newest if fewer), 40% all-time; 0% = 100, 15%+ = 0; the category percentile can only raise it.Appletree Preschool - River Edge: 92/100 on this factor. Category median: 62.A
92
Craft & serviceiCraft & service · penalty only, up to −10 pointsGoogle review highlights: Quality, Professionalism, Responsiveness, Punctuality — how rarely reviewers flag them as a negative, per review since highlights began; 0% = 100, 5%+ = 0. Subtracted from the score (up to −10), never averaged in — clean highlights are the norm, not a bonus.Appletree Preschool - River Edge: 95/100 on this factor. Category median: 95.A
95
ValueiValue · 14% of the scoreCustomers’ own price verdicts (Great / Reasonable vs Overpriced) and Value highlights; 65% absolute (all “reasonable” ≈ 80, “great” = 100), the category percentile can only raise it.Appletree Preschool - River Edge: 93/100 on this factor. Category median: 88.A
93
MomentumiMomentum · penalty only, up to −10 pointsPenalises only a real slide: last-12-month average below lifetime (−0.5★ = 0). Still 4.8★+ over the last year, or steady/improving = 100. Subtracted from the score (up to −10), never averaged in.Appletree Preschool - River Edge: 100/100 on this factor. Category median: 100.A
100
Replies to reviewsiReplies to reviews · 7% of the scoreHow often the owner publicly replies to reviews under 5★ (1–4★). Needs 3+ such reviews, otherwise not counted; 65% absolute (80%+ replied = 100), the category percentile can only raise it.Not enough reviews for this factor yet. Category median: 59.–
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Bar = this company · dark tick = category median.
Star ratings
40 Google reviews we collected
5.0of 5
5 stars40100%
4 stars00%
3 stars00%
2 stars00%
1 star00%
Praise vs complaints
Phrases our text analysis found in 39 written reviews
98%praise
Praise6398%
Complaints12%
Topic share
How often each topic comes up in the written reviews
7topics
Staff & attitude2539%
Would recommend1219%
Communication914%
Speed & response813%
Quality & results69%
Honesty & trust35%
Price & value12%
What customers talk about
We read 39 written reviews and marked every phrase about these topics. The same colors are highlighted in the reviews.
“The teachers across the board show so much care and kindness to the kiddos.”
“I highly recommend Appletree to anyone looking for a daycare.”
“Communication between the directors, teachers, and families has always been clear, transparent, and consistent.”
“Easy to communicate with and always responsive to parents.”
“Ms Courtney have done an excellent job ensuring the children get to learn in a safe environment.”
“For working parents, Appletree offers convenient hours, reliable availability, and flexibility when schedule changes are needed.”
“Proximity, facility, hours, cost, educational preparedness and most importantly - will our children be really loved and cared for.”
People customers mention
Courtney6 reviews
Sonja6 reviews
praise complaint · found by our text analysis, Google review wording unchanged.
What reviewers say about Appletree Preschool - River Edge
From 12 detailed written reviews; every point below is quoted in at least one review.
Mentioned most: Care with belongings (10 praise); Would recommend (9 praise); Friendly & courteous (6 praise); Communication (4 praise); Quality of work (4 praise); Place & ambience (2 praise, 1 complaint); Professionalism (2 praise).
Reported results: 1 exceeded expectations.
Returning customers: 7 reviewers say they used Appletree Preschool - River Edge before.
👍 “Teachers across the board show so much care”
👍 “I’ve referred other families here”
👍 “Cared for by nurturing, dedicated teachers”
👎 “Their elevators often have issue”
Recent reviews
EdwardLocal Guide · 13 reviewsiTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · 2 months ago★★★★★
We’ve sent our son since he was a bit over two years old. It’s been two plus years of attending and he loves it. The teachers across the board show so much care and kindness to the kiddos. I’ve referred other families here because of how good our experience has been. The down side is that the facility is older and…
Amanda2 reviewsiTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · 3 months ago★★★★★
Appletree Preschool in River Edge has been the best place for our children. All three of my kids have attended and started at 6 months old. The teachers are incredible, caring and truly love the children. The curriculum has been effective in teaching and keeping our children on track with meeting the appropriate…
PhilLocal Guide · 49 reviewsiTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · 3 months ago★★★★★
My son has been going to Appletree for the last 3.5 years. Their teachers are all tentative, caring and thoughtful. I hear from other parents that their older kids that have graduated Appletree was beyond ready for kindergarten. This is because this place actually has a strong learning curriculum. The Director Sonja…
ShaneLocal Guide · 14 reviewsiTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · 2 years ago★★★★★
Both my daughters go here and love their teachers and staff. Everyone is engaged and positive.
TLocal Guide · 13 reviewsiTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · 2 years ago★★★★★
Our oldest daughter is now just wrapping up her time in pre k4 at Appletree Preschool and I have to say it's been such a positive experience for her. She's been attending since Jan 2022 and she's loved every minute of it. From the teaching curriculum to the different activities throughout the day its been a fun…
Laura3 reviewsiTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · 2 years ago★★★★★
My twin boys have been at Appletree Preschool for about a year now. They are happy and thriving. All the directors, teachers and staff are amazing. You are informed with what is going on throughout the day. I highly recommend Appletree to anyone looking for quality care and education for their little ones.
We’ve sent our son since he was a bit over two years old. It’s been two plus years of attending and he loves it. The teachers across the board show so much care and kindness to the kiddos. I’ve referred other families here because of how good our experience has been. The down side is that the facility is older and not as fancy as others but my son could care less. He loves it, he learned how to read here, he can name his emotions, continues to learn how to socialize and work through situations with friends (sharing, turn taking, etc.).
German Velez3 reviewsiTotal number of Google reviews German has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
Our two sons are Appletree Preschool graduates. Our oldest started at age two, and our youngest began attending at just four months old. Choosing childcare is one of the most important decisions parents make, and from the beginning, we knew Appletree was the right choice. Over the past seven years, our sons have been cared for by nurturing, dedicated teachers who supported their growth and helped them reach their full potential. Both were very well prepared for kindergarten, academically, and socially. They consistently spoke highly of their teachers and formed meaningful connections with them, which reflects the quality of care and education Appletree provides. For working parents, Appletree offers convenient hours, reliable availability, and flexibility when schedule changes are needed. Communication between the directors, teachers, and families has always been clear, transparent, and consistent. We have known the directors, Ms. Courtney and Ms. Sonja, since our oldest son enrolled seven years ago. They are both incredibly caring, kind, and patient professionals who are genuinely passionate about child development and creating a positive environment for children and families. We cannot recommend Appletree Preschool highly enough!
Sarah Chung1 reviewiTotal number of Google reviews Sarah has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
We love Appletree! We are so thankful of Ms Sonja, Ms Courtney, and all the lovely teachers including Ms Sophia, Ms Aster and Ms Alanna! All the administration, teachers and staff LOVE on the kiddos so much and you can tell. Our kiddo looks forward to going to “school” everyday, to play with friends, interact with teachers, and learn new things everyday. He has truly blossomed academically, socially, in his independence, and with his voice. I especially appreciate their attention to each child according to their personality and they truly nurture each child. The staff is super available and reachable for any request or concern, big and small. They never made me feel like my nuanced and anxious questions were out of the ordinary. We even referred a friend and their toddler loves it here also! If you’re in this River Edge area, do not pass on the opportunity to have your child grow at Appletree.
Amanda Gregov2 reviewsiTotal number of Google reviews Amanda has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
Appletree Preschool in River Edge has been the best place for our children. All three of my kids have attended and started at 6 months old. The teachers are incredible, caring and truly love the children. The curriculum has been effective in teaching and keeping our children on track with meeting the appropriate milestones from ages 1-5. I highly recommend Appletree to anyone looking for a daycare. They are the best!!!
Ismarlyn CosmeLocal Guide · 12 reviewsiTotal number of Google reviews Ismarlyn has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
I can't say enough wonderful things about Apple Tree. My firstborn is the reason I started searching for what I thought would be the perfect daycare, and after looking around, I found Apple Tree. It has been one of the best decisions for our family.
The staff and teachers are truly incredible.
They treat every child with so much love, patience, and genuine care. Their dedication goes far beyond the classroom. They create such a fun, nurturing environment with amazing activities not only for the children but for the parents as well. They make us feel involved and part of a community.
My oldest is now moving on to Pre-K 4, and my youngest is in the infant class. I honestly don't know what I would have done without these amazing teachers. I could name every one of them and tell you exactly why they're so special. Ms. Mel, Ms. Sophia, Ms. Shirley, and Ms. Alanna have all made such a positive impact on my children's lives.
I also have to recognize the incredible supervisors, Ms. Sonja and Ms. Courtney. Their leadership shines through in everything they do, and it shows in the warm, welcoming environment they've created.
AppleTree truly feels like a gift from Heaven. I am so thankful God led my family here. Thank you for loving and caring for my children as if they were your own. We will always be grateful for everything you've done for our family.
Phil ChenLocal Guide · 49 reviewsiTotal number of Google reviews Phil has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
My son has been going to Appletree for the last 3.5 years. Their teachers are all tentative, caring and thoughtful. I hear from other parents that their older kids that have graduated Appletree was beyond ready for kindergarten. This is because this place actually has a strong learning curriculum. The Director Sonja and Asst. Ms Courtney have done an excellent job ensuring the children get to learn in a safe environment. My kid scored an 90% of the kindergarten screen test with flying colors. I would highly recommend Appletree for your child. One thing to note is their playground isn’t as big as other schools and their elevators often have issue so you may need to take the stairs once in a while. These are the issues with the building they rent from.
Shane McQuaidLocal Guide · 14 reviewsiTotal number of Google reviews Shane has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
Our oldest daughter is now just wrapping up her time in pre k4 at Appletree Preschool and I have to say it's been such a positive experience for her. She's been attending since Jan 2022 and she's loved every minute of it. From the teaching curriculum to the different activities throughout the day its been a fun journey. All of the teachers and staff have been so kind and amazing and its been so great seeing her always coming home with a smile on her face because the day at Appletree was so enjoyable. While I'm sure it's not easy and it will be a big change, I think Appletree definitely prepares kids well for the next journey into Kindergarten. We're looking forward to having our youngest daughter enroll in Appletree in a couple of years.
Laura Chan3 reviewsiTotal number of Google reviews Laura has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
My twin boys have been at Appletree Preschool for about a year now. They are happy and thriving. All the directors, teachers and staff are amazing. You are informed with what is going on throughout the day. I highly recommend Appletree to anyone looking for quality care and education for their little ones.
Kristen Genchi4 reviewsiTotal number of Google reviews Kristen has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
When we first started looking for pre-schools my husband and I had a list of things we needed to consider. Proximity, facility, hours, cost, educational preparedness and most importantly - will our children be really loved and cared for. AppleTree River Edge has absolutely exceeded our expectations in all areas. There is no doubt that my kids are given plenty of attention and comfort when they need it. Our oldest is timid and when she started at 4 years old, they made her feel so welcome and at home. Our youngest is now a student there and he cannot wait to go every morning. If you are considering AppleTree, Ms. Courtney, Ms. Sonja and ALL of the staff are incredible, loving, kind, accepting and phenomenal educators. Your child will benefit from being with these women.
