New Jersey Statutes Title 30. Institutions and Agencies 30 § 5B-2

The Legislature finds that it is in the public interest to license and regulate child care programs and facilities in order to insure the continuous growth and development of children. The Legislature further finds that comprehensive child care programs are of value to the health, safety, education, physical, social and intellectual growth and general well-being of the children served and that the programs strengthen and supplement the family unit. The Legislature further finds that child care programs provide places for preventive health measures, early detection of illnesses and handicaps and development of special talents and interests. The Legislature further finds that the State and parents have a responsibility in the education of children and that the role of the teacher as caregiver is essential to the continuous development of children. The Legislature further finds that experience indicates that the development of child care centers should be encouraged, whether publicly or privately supported, to provide a full range of services benefiting the child, parent and community and that there is a great need for expansion of existing centers and for the establishment of additional centers and other child care programs.