As we anticipate the arrival of summer, now is the perfect time to consider your child’s early educational journey. Whether you’re a first-time parent or exploring new options, finding the right preschool can feel overwhelming. Identifying programs that prioritize creativity, social interaction, and foundational learning is essential. But is a traditional preschool or a Montessori school—which offers a unique approach that encourages child-led exploration and independence—right for your little one? We’ve explored some local preschools and Montessori schools to give you a head start in securing a spot that aligns with your values and nurtures your child’s interests.
Buckely Country Day
2 I. U. Willets Road, Roslyn
516-627-1910
cfortuna@buckleycountryday.com
buckleycountryday.com
Buckley Country Day School is an inclusive community that nurtures the whole child, preparing students for success in high school, college, and beyond. The school’s mission, Opening The Eyes And Awakening The Mind, is at the heart of its curriculum, where Buckley’s youngest learners embark on a lifetime of discovery in a caring, positive environment. The Early Childhood program supports children’s physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development through play-based learning, laying a strong foundation for entry into Lower School. Buckley welcomes students as young as 2 years old in Pre-Nursery and admits students on a rolling basis through grade 7. Visit Buckley’s 28-acre Roslyn campus and discover the difference a Buckley education can make.
Countryside Montessori School
354 Lakeville Road, lower level, Great Neck
516-466-8422
info@cmsgn.com
cmsgn.com
Countryside Montessori School believes in creating a peaceful atmosphere where respect toward each other, community and the environment are an everyday occurrence. The school offers children ages 18 months to 6 years a well-balanced and enriched curriculum, which includes traditional subjects, art, and music. They are in an estate-like setting with an outdoor playground and nature walks. Classrooms are fully equipped and spacious. The school has two toddler classrooms and two primary classrooms. The toddler class is for 18 months to 3 years old. The primary class is for 3 to 6-year-olds and includes nursery, pre-K, and kindergarten. The primary class curriculum contemplates a three-year cycle. There are after-school programs offered throughout the school year.
Friends Academy
270 Duck Pond Road, Locust Valley
516-676-0393
admissions@fa.org
friendsacademy.org
At Friends Academy, a culture of
inquiry, engagement, and reflection begins in Early Childhood. Starting at this stage provides children with the foundation needed for success in the school’s rigorous academic programs in later years. The Reggio Emilia-inspired curriculum nurtures curiosity and builds essential skills in literacy, mathematics, and social-emotional learning. Rooted in Quaker values, the program encourages exploration, investigation, and inquiry as the basis for all learning. Friends Academy believes children learn best when they are passionate and motivated. Multi-sensory, hands-on experiences help students develop critical thinking skills, express themselves with confidence, and appreciate the voices and ideas of others.
The Green Vale School
250 Valentine’s Lane, Old Brookville
516-621-2420
admissions@greenvaleschool.org
greenvaleschool.org
The Green Vale School is Long Island’s preeminent private school for pre-nursery (age 2) through grade 8. Green Vale’s early childhood program, which includes pre-nursery through kindergarten, is designed to nurture young minds in a warm, kind, and cozy environment. Great emphasis is placed on developing the whole child and fostering academic, social, and emotional growth during these critical formative years. In addition to a vibrant and dynamic academic curriculum, students are introduced to a rich variety of specials—ranging from outdoor play, science, Spanish, music, technology, and physical education. With our expansive 40-acre campus as their learning playground, Green Vale’s youngest learners are encouraged to explore, discover, and grow in every way possible.
The Hagedorn Little Village School
750 Hicksville Road, Seaford
516-520-6000
littlevillage.org
The mission of The Hagedorn
Little Village School(HLVS) Jack Joel Center for Special Children is to provide the finest educational and therapeutic programs to infants, preschool and elementary school children with a wide range of developmental delays and disabilities. Staff strives to help each child they serve achieve their highest potential, educationally, emotionally and socially by creating a nurturing environment for the child and a supportive framework for their families. Further information can be found on the website: www.littlevillage.org.
Long Island School for the Gifted
815 Convent Rd., Syosset
631-423-3557
admissions@lisg.org
lisg.org
For over 40 years, the Long Island School for the Gifted (LISG) has offered an accelerated curriculum for students from pre-K through grade 9 in a nurturing environment where they will be both intellectually challenged and socially comfortable. LISG helps gifted students thrive by developing the knowledge, skills, and competencies needed for life by nurturing their unique abilities. With small class sizes and a low student-teacher ratio, the school emphasizes personalized instruction. Admission requires an IQ score of 130 or higher. LISG’s comprehensive approach addresses both academic and emotional needs, fostering the development of well-rounded individuals. Graduates often excel in higher education and beyond.
Portledge School
355 Duck Pond Road Locust Valley
516-750-3222
rsupple@portledge.org
www.portledge.org
At Portledge School, even the youngest students ask big questions. The Early Childhood Program offers a nurturing, engaging environment where children begin their educational journey with curiosity and confidence. Located on a picturesque campus, the program balances academic readiness with social and emotional growth through hands-on learning, creative play, and personalized attention. Experienced educators inspire a love of learning by encouraging exploration, critical thinking, and collaboration. The curriculum includes early literacy, math, science, and the arts, tailored to each child’s developmental stage. Outdoor play, music, and movement are part of the daily experience. With a focus on character, community, and discovery, Portledge prepares children for future academic success and a lifelong passion for learning.
Ready Set Grow Preschool
2200 Marcus Ave, New Hyde Park
516-775-5545, rsgpreschool2200@gmail.com
readysetgrownassau.org/
Ready Set Grow Preschool in New Hyde Park offers an enriching, child-centered learning experience that inspires young minds. The preschool features engaging themed rooms for math and science, reading, imagination, and art, allowing children to explore and grow in a dynamic environment that fosters creativity, critical thinking, and social-emotional development. Small class sizes ensure personalized attention and instructional gymnastics contribute movement and coordination to the daily schedule. The program emphasizes interactive, hands-on experiences that encourage confidence and independence, distinguishing it from standard programs. As K-3 programs expand, Ready Set Grow Preschool aims to maintain engagement and provide a nurturing environment where children can thrive academically, socially and emotionally.
