Click on this link to the NJ Div. of Fish and Wildlife. These are some places to consider. While it is not a complete listing of stocked waters, it is a start. Mac's Pond in Manasquan is stocked for preseason. It is small and usually is youngster friendly. It's only a short drive from Spring Lake. Spring Lake on opening day is also a kids' friendly event (if you can persuade some of the adults to move over). There is usually a kids' tournament sponsored by one of the local fishing clubs.
As for bait, the most productive baits have been Power Bait combined with a meal worm. That bait, rigged above a small sinker/split shot works well as long as the bait is allowed to float slightly up off the bottom. Adjust your rig to allow the bait to float a bit.
https://nj.gov/dep/fgw/accesscnty.htm#Monmouth
