The Benefits of Preschool

The Benefits of Preschool
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The Benefits of Preschool

Every parent wants their child to have a great education. Elementary, high school, and college learning are all undoubtedly important, but the path to a successful education can start as early as the toddler years—long before a child steps into a kindergarten classroom. 

Preschool learning—also known as early childhood education—is a great option for many families and can offer a strong foundation for a successful academic career.  

What is Preschool?

It seems like a silly question, but it’s important to define what preschool actually means these days. In the past, preschool was considered by many to be just a time for children to play.

Some critics have even referred to it as a form of “babysitting service.” While preschool can provide an excellent and enriching child-care opportunity for working parents, the belief that preschool is just a time for free play has changed. 

Nonetheless, play is extremely important for healthy child development.

“Preschool education is extremely important for children as they develop communication, problem solving, creative and essential social and emotional skills,” said Julie Anne Penn, an expert in elementary education and co-author of Team Supercrew, a book series for kids that is centered around cognitive-behavioral therapy and social-emotional therapy.

Benefits of Preschool Learning

Some parents grapple over whether to send their child to preschool or keep them home in their toddler years. Of course, every family has its unique circumstances and its own factors to consider when making this important decision. 

While there are definitely pluses to keeping your child at home, many social workers and education experts agree that preschool offers children many lasting benefits. 

In fact, children who attend high-quality preschool programs reap benefits that can last through school and their lives, according to a review of research by the Learning Policy Institute, a Palo Alto, CA, nonprofit that conducts research in the field of education policy and practice. 

An overarching benefit of preschool is the vital role it plays in the development of the whole child. The pre-kindergarten years provide a time in a child’s life where social, emotional and cognitive development needs to be nourished and developed equally, many educators say.

“One of the most important skills to foster at this age is self regulation – the ability to manage emotions and behavior,” Penn said. “Children who attend preschool will learn and develop these essential skills through play, early literacy, and interaction with their classmates. This sets them up for success in Kindergarten and beyond.”

It’s important to note that preschool is often the very first time a child is apart from his or her parents and in a group of peers, which as many parents know can be stressful for a child, but an experience that will pay off in the long run. 

Another similar benefit preschool provides is an opportunity to socialize in a group setting, which is something that most likely can’t be achieved at home.

“Preschool gives children an opportunity to practice social skills and develop those social skills in a real-world kind of way that also reflects what it’s going to be like once they enter into school,”  Michelle Felder, LCSW, a parenting therapist and founder and CEO of Parenting Pathfinders, said.

Problem-solving and negotiating are two important skills children start to acquire in preschool, Felder explained. 

Learning these two critically important skills at a young age will help provide a strong base for healthy and successful interpersonal, academic and professional relationships well into adolescence and adulthood. 

“Kids have the opportunity in preschool to practice negotiating time and space with other kids, which really helps them become more prepared when they enter kindergarten,” Felder said. 

“This sets a really wonderful foundation for learning how to interact with other people, how to negotiate, problem solve, cooperate and listen. Preschool also builds those foundational conversation skills for kids as they’re talking to peers and grown-ups. They get so much practice in preschool.”

Another benefit of preschool learning is that professional teachers on staff are trained to identify problems a child may have—problems that might go unnoticed by parents. 

Preschool Learning: It’s Not Necessarily About Academics

Parents shouldn’t expect their child to become a whiz at reading, writing and counting in preschool. Early childhood education is much more about socialization, cognitive and emotional development, curiosity and learning through play. 

Interestingly enough though, these early years are also a great time for children to form a base for another important life skill: Financial literacy. The preschool years, usually from ages 3 to 5, are an important stage when children can acquire prerequisite skills to learn about money later on, explained Jennifer Seitz, CFEI and director of education at Greenlight, a financial app for kids and teens. 

“It’s never too early to start teaching the basics — from simple counting to core math skills like adding and subtracting,” Seitz said. “They also can learn introductory financial concepts, like the use of currency, through pretend play. Preschool age children can  usually understand that spending will reduce the amount of money they have, and earning will increase it. Very importantly, kids should learn that money is a limited resource and therefore, it’s essential to have a plan for how it will be used.”

Preschool is often the age where kids may earn their first money by doing work or chores — whether the money is real at home, or pretend money in a classroom. 

“Teachers and parents can also introduce the idea of saving by explaining that they may have to wait and save up money for something they want, rather than getting it right away  or spending it on something else immediately,” Seitz said. “By introducing these concepts early on, children can develop a sense of financial responsibility and decision-making skills. They will begin to understand the importance of planning, making thoughtful choices and delaying gratification. The skills they learn from preschool activities can build a solid groundwork for their future financial skills and confidence with more complex financial concepts.”

Preschool also helps foster a child’s creativity, which is a big part of early childhood development. Teaching art to preschoolers nurtures an array of important skills. 

“Fostering creativity in preschool helps children develop the ability to think outside the box, an important skill for future academic success,” Christine Hernandez, an early childhood and parenting expert, play advocate and founder of a playspace and preschool in Saratoga, NY, explained. “Young children are very literal; art helps them flex their abstract thinking muscles and learn to see the world differently. Art allows young children to express themselves freely and learn to communicate their thoughts, emotions, and ideas. Children can visually represent their inner world and share it with others.”

While reading isn’t usually in a preschool curriculum, literacy skills are often taught through art. Since art is symbolic, children use art to represent real objects, events and feelings.

Tips for Choosing a Preschool 

Now that you have an overview of what preschool can offer, it’s time to choose a school. The search for the perfect preschool can be quite overwhelming, but education experts shared some tips to help make the process a little less daunting. 

To start, make sure the school aligns with what’s important to you as a parent, whether it offers indoor programming, opportunities for outside play, arts-and-crafts, among other activities. Many parents might also want to consider cost, location, and teacher credentials. 

Other tips for choosing a preschool include:

~Visit the school in person. Parents should have a warm and welcoming feeling when visiting a school and should feel free to ask questions.

~Look at the student-teacher ratio. Consider how important class size is to you. 

~Consider toys and materials. Ask the staff if there are toys available that encourage children to be creative. These can include dolls and plush animals to foster imaginative play, LEGOs of preschool complexity levels, puppets for storytelling, and easy-to-use drum sets, among many other options. 

Changing a Preschool Mid-Year

Sometimes, despite your best efforts to find a school that suits your family’s needs, the one you chose just isn’t the right fit. While your child might be blissfully happy, it can also be the case that sometimes their school isn’t working and you may be considering a mid-year jump to a new school.

The first step to switching schools is to figure out what isn’t working. Reach out to your child’s teacher or school principal. 

Be honest that you’re considering a change of environment and bring up your concerns about the school. Keep in mind that you only see one side of the story as a parent and that they might have valuable insights to share about your child’s life at school. 

Once you’ve laid out your concerns, listen carefully to their response and ask them whether they have any suggestions for improving the situation. 

If you aren’t convinced that change will be possible and still have the same desire to make a move, ask what the process for leaving mid-year might be. If you’re at a private school, understand your billing notice period and how you will retrieve school records.

Once a new school has been chosen, mentally prepare your child for the move. Alicia Sharpe, a New York City-based education consultant, says, “Mental preparation starts at home. Speak with your child about this new coming transition; even if the child is too young to communicate with you verbally, they will understand. If possible, bring your child to visit the new school, meet the teachers, and introduce them to their new classroom before the start of the new school term. If you have an older child, help them understand that moving schools is not abnormal, but it will be an exciting fresh start. Reassure them that it’s possible to maintain friendships even when they’re at a new school, and consider how you can help them to participate in activities that current friends take part in.”

Preschool Directory

Click on your region to jump to preschools near you:

Brooklyn

Battery Park Montessori

21 S End Ave.

New York NY 10280

212.235.2320

BatteryParkMontessori.com

[email protected]

Battery Park Montessori is New York City’s first trilingual Montessori school, offering Spanish and Mandarin language exposure, Nursery Ones through Kindergarten. Montessori-trained teachers nurture each child’s social, emotional, cognitive, academic, and physical needs, fostering their independence, natural curiosity, and problem-solving abilities. Expansive patios with riverfront views provide safe, secure play areas for children to explore. Partnered with MIT Media Labs Learning Beautiful’s hands-on, tactile, and age appropriate materials, students are introduced to STEM and coding without touching a computer.

 

BASIS Independent Brooklyn

405 Gold Street (PreK– Grade 2)

556 Columbia Street (Grades 3–12)

[email protected]

brooklyn.basisindependent.com

The Early Learning Program at BASIS Independent Brooklyn engages Pre-K and Kindergarten students in an advanced, comprehensive curriculum featuring Mandarin, STEM, literacy, music, art, and more. Students are led by nurturing, expert teachers who encourage intellectual curiosity, creativity, and independent thinking from day one.

 

Catholic Charities Family Child Care Brooklyn

Locations throughout Brooklyn 

718- 722-6001

In a licensed safe learning environment these Early Childhood Development Centers and Family Child Care Providers provide FREE Early Head Start and Head Start services to low-income eligible families with children ages birth to five years old. Through the Montessori approach, the programs ensure children are “school ready” by providing a variety of developmentally appropriate activities that promote cognitive, social, emotional, language-literacy and physical development in young children by experienced caring teachers.

 

Elemental Arts Montessori

364 Argyle Rd, Brooklyn, NY 11218

718-484-0942

elementalartsmontessori.com

A Full Member School with the American Montessori Society, for children from the age of 2.6 through 5.6 years old. EAM offers a small class size of only 12 children per program session and two Montessori trained teachers, providing a warm, nurturing, caring and stimulating environment and a unique experience for your child. Having fun through exploration and discovery allows each child to fully experience their natural joy for learning. Fully licensed by the NYC Dept. of Health.

 

Montessori Day School of Brooklyn

237 Park Place, Brooklyn

718398-2322

montessoridayschool.org

A warm and welcoming community serving children ages two to five. At MDS, they encourage every child’s natural curiosity and readiness to learn and create a nurturing and fun atmosphere that promotes independence and self-esteem, and creates life-long learners. They work to ensure that their school community is as richly diverse as the city we live in. Their tuition assistance program provides access to an MDS education for all children. Applications open up on September 1, 2023 and the deadline to apply for the next school year is December 31st. Please reach out with any questions about admissions.

 

Pine Street School

25 Pine St.

New York NY 10005

212-235-2325

PineStreetSchool.com

[email protected]

Pine Street School is an International Baccalaureate World School located in the heart of the financial district. For Nursery Ones through 8th Grade, they offer dual-language immersion tracks with Spanish and Mandarin. Their innovative approach and curriculum embodies transdisciplinary learning and integrates voice, choice, and agency into everything they do. Pine Street School students are capable, confident, passionate, and compassionate changemakers embracing technology, intellectual rigor and a global perspective.

 

Stepping Stones Center

44 1st Pl, Brooklyn, NY 11231

718-243-1432

Stepping Stones Nursery

245 86th St, Brooklyn, NY 11209

718-630-1000

Stepping Stones- The Next Step

9321 Ridge Blvd, Brooklyn, NY 11209

718-630-1001

steppingstones86.com

Stepping Stones is an early childhood facility offering programs for children ages two to five since 2002. Stepping Stones is a safe and secure early childhood center with an educational curriculum that focuses on developing a love of learning. Each age group is given opportunities that reflect their stage of development to assist them in reaching their milestones. Schedule a tour with us to learn about our creative curriculum or email [email protected] for more information.

 

VHG Early Childhood Language Schools

Located in West Harlem, UES, Brooklyn, and NEW LOCATIONS IN UES & DUMBO

vhggroupny.com

[email protected]

VHG Daycares and Preschools welcome students from all cultures and backgrounds. Their French, Spanish and English-speaking teams motivate and guide infants, toddlers and preschoolers to became independent, confident and caring, in a bilingual setting.

 

Long Island

Buckley Country Day School

2 I.U. Willets Road

Roslyn, NY 11576

516-472-2702

buckleycountryday.com

Buckley Country Day School is an independent, coeducational day school providing a superior elementary education to an intellectually capable and diverse student body. Buckley provides the foundation that enables students to achieve their full potential, excelling as educated, ethical, self-confident individuals. Their graduates are well prepared secondary schools and beyond. Opening the eyes and awakening the mind. . . that is the essence of education.” B. Lord Buckley, 1923.

 

Countryside Montessori School 

354 Lakeville Road, lower level, Great Neck

516-466-8422

[email protected]

Countryside Montessori School offers children, 18 months to 6 years, a well-balanced and enriched curriculum which includes traditional subjects, art, and music. They are located on an estate-like setting with an outdoor playground and nature walks. Classrooms are fully equipped and spacious. Countryside Montessori  is offering in-person camp for children ages 18 months to 6 years old. There are morning academics for the older children and playtime for all children.

 

HASC/Hebrew Academy for Special Children

321 Woodmere Boulevard

Woodmere, New York  11598

Office: 516-295-1340

hasc.net

HASC, an early childhood licensed childcare program, can provide your child with a play-oriented, language-based classroom experience, a curriculum that aligns with the standards of the NYS Education Department, and a low student/staff ratio, with all classes taught by certified teachers who provide opportunities for sensory, motor, and language learning. HASC offers low tuition rate, licensed nurse on premise, and full-day classes. HASC students participate in weekly music class, daily playground time, and physical education.

 

A Work of Heart

3 Greenhills Road

South Huntington, NY 11746

Phone: 631- 673-7373

workofheartchildcare.com

At A Work of Heart, they believe that each child is unique, and they provide an environment that fosters each child’s individual abilities. They offer programs and camps from Infant – 8 yrs. old,  designed to instill a love of learning for young children.  Their programs immerse children with learning opportunities in literacy, science, math, music, movement, and culture. Children emerge with a confidence that comes from being in an affirming and respectful atmosphere.

 

YMCA of Long Island

855-2YMCALI (962254)

Bay Shore, East Hampton, Glen Cove, Holtsville, Huntington, and Patchogue

Email [email protected]

YMCALI.org

The YMCA of Long Island’s Early Childhood and Preschool programs provide a safe, nurturing environment for children to learn, grow and develop social skills. Their developmentally-appropriate curriculum is designed for ages 18 months – 5 years old and includes art, science, music, fitness and swimming, outdoor play, circle time, math & reading readiness skills, and so much more. Programs & ages vary by branch. Currently enrolling for the 2023-2024 school year – Register Now!

 

Manhattan

BASIS Independent Manhattan

795 Columbus Avenue (PreK– Grade 5)

556 West 22nd Street (Grades 6–12)

[email protected]

manhattan.basisindependent.com

The Early Learning Program at BASIS Independent Manhattan engages Pre-K and Kindergarten students in an advanced, comprehensive curriculum featuring Mandarin, STEM, literacy, music, art, and more. Students are led by nurturing, expert teachers who encourage intellectual curiosity, creativity, and independent thinking from day one.

 

Battery Park Montessori

21 S End Ave.

New York NY 10280

212.235.2320

BatteryParkMontessori.com

[email protected]

Battery Park Montessori is New York City’s first trilingual Montessori school, offering Spanish and Mandarin language exposure, Nursery Ones through Kindergarten. Montessori-trained teachers nurture each child’s social, emotional, cognitive, academic, and physical needs, fostering their independence, natural curiosity, and problem-solving abilities. Expansive patios with riverfront views provide safe, secure play areas for children to explore. Partnered with MIT Media Labs Learning Beautiful’s hands-on, tactile, and age-appropriate materials, students are introduced to STEM and coding without touching a computer.

 

The Bloomingdale Family Program

987 Columbus Avenue NYC 10025

212-665-4631

bloomingdalefamilyprogram.org

Bloomingdale is a longstanding nonprofit 3-k, Pre-k and Head Start preschool on Manhattan’s Upper Westside. They use the HighScope Curriculum, a renowned, comprehensive, research-proven curriculum that provides a rich academic foundation and fosters child creativity, confidence, and independence. Teachers are bilingual and speak English and Spanish throughout the day. The children explore, experiment, communicate, express their feelings, and become eager and confident learners ready for Kindergarten. They offer a 10 or 11-month program year.

 

The École

111 E. 22nd St., New York, NY

646-410-2238

theEcole.org

[email protected]

The École is an independent, French-American bilingual school serving an international community of Maternelle-to-Middle School students in New York City’s Flatiron District. Through their unique dual program, which incorporates both the French and American curricula, The École offers students the lifetime benefits of a bilingual education, empowering them to create and connect to a world filled with possibilities.

 

The First Presbyterian Church Nursery School

212- 691-3432

fpcns.org

The First Presbyterian Church Nursery School was founded in 1952 in the heart of Greenwich Village. The Nursery School is dedicated to the development of the whole child in a warm and nurturing environment, with an educational philosophy enhanced and inspired by the Reggio Emilia Approach. FPCNS serves children ages 2.0 to 5.3. The nursery school offers large airy classrooms, a rooftop playground, lending library and indoor play space for rainy day play.

Kuei Luck Early Childhood Center 

132 W 112 Street, New York, NY 10026

212-931-9029

klpreschool.com

Brand new South Harlem location opening soon! Kuei Luck Early Childhood Center is a Reggio-inspired, Mandarin Immersion Nursery & Preschool and believes that early learning experiences have a profound impact on a child’s social, emotional, and intellectual development. Their student-led immersive language model is rooted in exploration, experimentation, and play. Students are encouraged to explore learning through art, music, play, and nature and their approach encourages young learners to deepen their knowledge of subjects they are most curious about. Now enrolling for 2023-2024.

Lycee Francais de New York

505 East 75th Street

212-369-1400

lfny.org/admissions

La joie means joy in French, joy in learning and joy in growing at one of NYC’s historic bilingual schools. In nursery, pre-k and kindergarten, each class is taught by both French- and English-speaking teachers. Preschoolers learn reading, math and writing, and self expression through art, music and movement – in both French and English, with plenty of time to play. No prior knowledge of French is needed to enter the Lycee’s Preschool.

The Montessori School of New York International 

347 E. 55th St., Sutton Place, Manhattan

212-223-4630

montessorischoolny.com

A multi-faceted program that inspires curiosity and develops a love of learning! Classes are equipped with didactic Montessori materials that encourage absorption of concepts through hands-on activities, leading children to become well-rounded and confident. Program includes science, music, foreign languages, swimming, dance, yoga, chess, and cultural events! A unique summer program, staffed by the year round teachers, offers a balance of academics and outdoor activities, from theme-based trips to sports activities!

Nord Anglia International School New York (NAISNY)

44 E 2nd St, New York, NY 10003

nordangliaeducation.com/nais-new-york

At NAISNY, every child benefits from the personalized approach which centers around small class sizes to allow maximum impact to learning. NAISNY is a part of 84 schools, students enroll from 2 years old to age 14.They thrive in their academics, develop their creative side with the innovative curriculum, and access to a range of languages. All students from the age of two benefit from the school’s collaboration with world-leading institutions: Juilliard, MIT and UNICEF.

 

Pine Street School

25 Pine St.

New York NY 10005

212-235-2325

PineStreetSchool.com

[email protected]

An International Baccalaureate World School located in the heart of the financial district. For Nursery Ones through 8th Grade, they offer dual-language immersion tracks with Spanish and Mandarin. Their innovative approach and curriculum embodies transdisciplinary learning and integrates voice, choice, and agency into everything they do. Pine Street School students are capable, confident, passionate, and compassionate changemakers embracing technology, intellectual rigor and a global perspective.

 

Trevor Day School

1 West 88th Street and Central Park West

212.426.3355

trevor.org

[email protected]

Trevor’s Preschool welcomes children starting at age 2.8 for half day, full day, and extended day programs. Two expert teachers in every classroom guide foundational and joyful learning through exploration, music, art, movement, inquiry, and indoor and outdoor play. Our preschool students are invited to grow with us through 12th grade in our college-preparatory independent school.

 

Twin Parks Montessori 

Central Park Montessori 

1 West 91st Street

Park West Montessori School 

435 Central Park West

Riverside Montessori School 

202 Riverside Drive

[email protected]

Twin Parks Montessori School serves families with children from 3 months to 5 years old. We are an authentic Montessori school, with three campuses on the Upper West Side. We are an accredited school, across the street from Central Park or Riverside Park. We offer summer and late-day programs.

 

Staten Island

Academy of St. Dorothy

1305 Hylan Boulevard

719-351-0930

academyofstdorothy.org

A private elementary school located in Old Town, Academy of St. Dorothy (ASD) offers a full time Pre-Kindergarten 4 program. Housed within its own building on the school’s 13-acre campus, ASD offers Pre-K instruction from 8:30 a.m. – 2:15 p.m. with early dropoff and aftercare options. The program is uniquely designed, with a UPK component from 9 – 11:30 a.m. and an optional, privately-administered afternoon session.

 

Big Bird’s Playhouse

1859  Richmond Avenue

bigbirdsplayhouse.com

[email protected]

718-982-0550

Big Bird’s playhouse has been serving parents in Staten Island since 1991. Providing them with a safe environment where children feel loved, respected and safe. This is a place where they learn  grow, building a foundation for their future. They believe children can learn from play, stories, arts and crafts at their daily centers. All of their staff is warm and caring to each child’s specific needs. Serving children from 3 months to 12 years old.  Free PreK 3 and PreK 4.  Extended hours available, Open from 6:30 am to 6:30 pm

 

High Hopes Childcare and Preschool

1298 Woodrow Road

718-317-8143

[email protected]

facebook.com/HighHopesChildCare

High Hopes Childcare has offered quality childcare in a safe and loving environment since 1996. They are DOH licensed and have been collaborating with the DOE since the inception of UPK in 1996. The school offers programs for infants through age 5 and is open Monday-Friday, 7am-4:30pm.

 

JCC of Staten Island

1466 Manor Road 

2221 Richmond Ave. 

1297 Arthur Kill Road 

485 Victory Blvd. 

718-475-5230

Jayne Smith – [email protected]

sijcc.org

JCC Early Education Center offers a stimulating, individualized, age-appropriate curriculum. A developmental approach fosters social and emotional growth. Day care starts at 3 months, 3-K For All, and Pre-K For All. Special needs preschool available. Extended hours are also available.

 

Most Terrific Child

555 Tompkins Ave.

718-273-0334

[email protected]

mtcdaycare.com

At the Most Terrific Child Center, they believe that children learn best through exploration and hands-on experiences. They acquire the ability to relate to the world around them through active engagement with their environment. There is a balance between indoor and outdoor time, active and quiet activities, and individual and group routines. Each child is treated with love and respect.  They believe expressing oneself is a key value for all children. 

 

Prodigy Preschool

3080 Arthur Kill Road

718-948-4800

Sarah Tirro – [email protected]

Prodigy Preschool at the Staten Island Skating Pavilion is a Pre-K For All Department of Education 4-year-old specialty program in which children learn the fundamentals of ice skating and become academically prepared for kindergarten. Small classroom size provides an intimate setting where children are able to receive much one-on-one attention from NY State certified teachers. In small groups, children learn the techniques and foundations of ice skating during one hour of on-ice activities a few days per week. Prodigy is a home away from home for children where they can learn, laugh, grow, and have fun.

 

Staten Island Academy 

715 Todt Hill Road

718-303-7803

statenislandacademy.org

Programs available are coed college prep school beginning in Pre-K3 through Grade 12. Included with tuition is 7AM to 7PM Extended Day program. Full-day, 3-days or 5-days a week programs are offered for Pre-K3 students. Science, art, music and theater in addition to American Sign Language through Grade 4. Distinguished Patrick Academic Resource Center staffed by Orton-Gillingham trained specialists. Need-based financial aid is available from Kindergarten. 

 

St. Joseph Hill Academy

850 Hylan Blvd.

stjosephhillacademy.com 

St. Joseph Hill Academy Elementary school is a premier co-educational school. Students from Pre-K3 to 8th grade are nurtured in Catholic traditions and the students develop a lifelong love of learning. They are proud to be a PLTW Distinguished Gateway school.

 

Tender Care Preschool Catholic Charities of Staten Island

6581 Hylan Blvd.

718-317-2849

[email protected]

tendercarepreschool.com

Tender Care Preschool is a loving and caring place for children and families. The School supports children where they need it and challenges them when they are ready for the next step. At Tender Care Preschool, children become lifelong learners with a strong foundation and are well prepared for their educational journey. Full-day 2-year-old class. Free full-day 3K and pre-K. Extended hours: 7am-6pm.

 

Tiny Treasures University

396 Van Duzer Street

718-273-5157

[email protected]

Tiny Treasures Academy and University are a daycare, preschool, pre-kindergarten and wellness center with a twist on traditional ways of enhancing children’s development and supporting the modern-day parent. Both centers offer a holistic approach in body and mind to equip kids with a strong foundation. Custom schedules are available

 

Queens

Catholic Charities Family Child Care Queens

Locations throughout Queens

718-722-6001

In a licensed safe learning environment these Early Childhood Development Centers and Family Child Care Providers provide FREE Early Head Start and Head Start services to low-income eligible families with children ages birth to five years old. Through the Montessori approach, the programs ensure children are “school ready” by providing a variety of developmentally appropriate activities that promote cognitive, social, emotional, language-literacy and physical development in young children by experienced caring teachers.

Countryside Montessori School 

354 Lakeville Road, lower level, Great Neck

516-466-8422

[email protected]

Countryside Montessori School offers children, 18 months to 6 years, a well-balanced and enriched curriculum which includes traditional subjects, art, and music. They are located on an estate-like setting with an outdoor playground and nature walks. Classrooms are fully equipped and spacious. Countryside Montessori  is offering in-person camp for children ages 18 months to 6 years old. There are morning academics for the older children and playtime for all children.

Forest Hills Montessori School

67-04 Austin St

Forest Hills, NY 11375

[email protected]

718 275-0173

Located in the heart of Forest Hills accessible to public transportation, the school has been in existence for over 45 years and services children ages 3-12.  3–5-year-olds are taught in the traditional Montessori philosophy and methodology. The elementary students (6-12 years) also follow the Montessori philosophy along with the New York State education curriculum.  All classes are small (12-15 with 2 teachers in each class). The students work at their own pace and level.  Extra-curricular subjects are also included.

Kuei Luck Early Childhood Centers 

LIC: 2-03 Borden Ave, Long Island City, NY

718-670-9919

Rego Park/Forest Hills: 99-39 66th Ave, Rego Park, NY

718-679-9909

klpreschool.com

Kuei Luck Early Childhood Center is a Reggio-inspired, Mandarin Immersion Nursery & Preschool and believes that early learning experiences have a profound impact on a child’s social, emotional, and intellectual development. Their student-led immersive language model is rooted in exploration, experimentation, and play. Students are encouraged to explore learning through art, music, play, and nature and their approach encourages young learners to deepen their knowledge of subjects they are most curious about.  Now enrolling for 2023-2024 at both locations.

 

Westchester

Ann and Andy Childcare  

2170 Saw Mill River Road, Elmsford, NY

914-592-3027

annandandychildcare.com

Each child is considered first as an individual and then as a member of the group. Regularly planned group activities meet the natural, physical, emotional, and cognitive needs of children at play. The staff is carefully trained to promote a positive environment and to keep a balanced routine that does not stress or overstimulate children. Ages infant to 5 yr old.

Ardsley Community Nursery School 

21 American Legion Dr., Ardsley

914-693-4932

acns.us

The Ardsley Community Nursery School has been serving families from the local area for more than 50 years with a fun-loving environment run by caring staff and a strong enrichment program consisting of music, soccer and yoga. Field trips are taken to the nearby police and fire stations, the library and the Greenburgh Nature Center. Children experience science and nature daily through taking care of plants, classroom pets, and hatching butterflies. Their goal is for every child to feel good about themselves, make friends and love school.

French-American School of New York 

Manor Campus (Nursery-Grade 3)

111 Larchmont Avenue, Larchmont 

914-250-0469

fasny.org

Live Locally, Learn Globally at FASNY! Founded in 1980, the French-American School of New York (FASNY) has offered the best in bilingual education for more than forty years. FASNY’s play-based preschool program begins at 3 years old with an emphasis on language acquisition and the development of fine and gross motor skills. In preschool, the curriculum is interconnected, between themes and languages and across age groups, adding skills, and increasing challenges over time. No French required!

German International School New York 

50 Partridge Rd, White Plains, NY 

914-948-6513

GISNY.org

At GISNY, pre-k and kindergarten children are welcomed into a bright and nurturing environment and enjoy most of their school day outdoors exploring, learning, and playing on the beautiful 20-acre campus. Entering pre-k and kindergarten children are not required to speak or understand German and will build the foundation for being bilingual by first grade. GISNY is Pre-K to Grade 12.

Kehillah School for Early Learning

1000 Pinebrook Boulevard, New Rochelle  

914-637-3808 

[email protected] 

Temple Israel’s Kehillah School provides care for children 6 weeks to Kindergarten Preparation, using Reggio Emilia approach to education. Their educational objective is to provide our children a love of learning, curiosity, respect for spirit, and a foundation of Jewish ethics, morals, and values. A developmentally appropriate curriculum, balances emergent and child-initiated approaches through play, nature, the arts, and music. Contact the School Director, Jen Pennucci, to schedule a tour of their Westchester location.

Liberty Montessori Schools        

155 Beechmont Dr., New Rochelle

914-636-3461

631 W. Boston Post Road, Mamaroneck

914-777-1382

libertymontessorischools.com

An amazing waterfront facility offering programs for toddler to Grade 3 with an updated enrichment curriculum that incorporates special music programs. Liberty’s unique  curriculum includes their special Science programs leading advanced students to a Challenger Program with special multilingual programs in Chinese, French, German, Spanish and Japanese. A tour of the facility to meet with the school director can offer more details about the Montessori environment.

Montessori School of Pelham Manor    

1415 Pelhamdale Avenue, Pelham, New York

914-738-1127

[email protected]

montessorischoolpelhamny.com

Upholding a “tradition of excellence” since 1992, this school firmly holds to the principles of child development devised by Dr. Maria Montessori. Children ages 3 to 5 work with Montessori materials and exercises in a prepared environment progressing at their own rate, developing confidence, independence all while gaining a love of learning which is the hallmark of Montessori. Their small class sizes make it easy to find out how to best cater to a child’s unique learning needs. Prepare your child for a lifetime of learning. Call or email to schedule your personal appointment.

Purchase Children’s Center

3095 Purchase St, Purchase

914-949-2636

[email protected]

purchasechildrenscenter.com

Conveniently located near White Plains, The Purchase Children’s Center provides a hands-on learning environment where children are free to explore, play, and learn. They offer integrated programs that facilitate social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development. Their child-centered curricula support a flexible routine which respects the individuality of each child’s growth. They believe that building and sustaining a bond between child, parent, and teacher is the foundation of a quality preschool education.

Rye YMCA’s Nursery School in Mamaroneck 

St. John’s Church, 122 Fenimore Road

914-446-3908

Kristen Sidari – [email protected] 

ryeymca.org/nursery-school

With classrooms for toddlers (ages 18-35 months) and pre-school-age children (3-5 years old), the program offers a choice of morning or afternoon sessions with three, four or five-day options. Children will learn foundational skills, develop healthy relationships, and build self-reliance through activities such as music, literacy, movement, STEM, sports, art and cooking. Register now for Fall 2023 and receive the first month free. 

Rye Playschool

882 Boston Post Rd, Rye

914-967-6334

[email protected]

ryeplayschool.com

Rye is where children learn through play! Providing morning classes of supervised play and learning for children ages 12 months to 4. Children socialize in a warm, nurturing environment led by qualified teachers. There’s always time for social interactions, art, activities, music, reading and free play. Their loving atmosphere helps ensure each child’s first separation experience is a positive one. Their activities stimulate growth; physically, socially, emotionally and cognitively. Unifying the families into the Rye Playschool Family is of utmost importance.

World Cup Schools

160 Hunts Lane, Chappaqua

914-238-9267

worldcupschools.com

World Cup’s reputation for excellence in early childhood education has been built by its dedicated teachers who keep up-to-date on new approaches to learning and are devoted to the students they teach. Great teacher/child ratios, special guests/theme days, Spanish, creative movement, two outdoor playgrounds, indoor bike track, music and a huge gymnastics facility where children receive coaching from USAG-safety-certified instructors. Ages infant to 5 yrs old. Full and partial-day programs are available.

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Long Island Speech

<p>At Long Island Speech, we recognize the value of every person and are guided by our commitment to excellence. We believe that everyone has the right to better communication in order to improve their quality of life. Our mission is to provide exemplary speech/language and feeding services for each of our patients by our highly qualified clinicians, making a positive difference in the lives of our patients so that they may achieve their highest potential. Through the commitment of our staff, we can maintain a quality of presence and tradition of caring; which are hallmarks for Long Island Speech. Our vision is to be the absolute best speech therapy service provider throughout both Nassau and Suffolk counties. We aspire to be the provider of choice in our industry. We have 9 affiliated offices across Long Island, all participating with most major health insurance companies. We also offer evening and weekend hours. Call 844-5-SPEECH to schedule your first appointment.</p>

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<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; color: #000000;" data-sheets-value="{" data-sheets-userformat="{">A tuition-free charter middle school on the Lower East Side of Manhattan. We prepare our students for success in college through excellent teaching and tutoring. <br /></span></p>

Lyceum Kennedy French American School

<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; color: #000000;" data-sheets-value="{" data-sheets-userformat="{">An independent school that provides students with an outstanding bilingual and bi-cultural education based on the principles of self-expression and differentiated pedagogy.</span></p>