The Riverdale Press' 2009 guide to child care

Amalgamated Nursery School
3980 Orloff Ave.
718-543-8688
E-mail: amalgamatedns@yahoo.com
Director: Lisa Wenz

The goal of the Amalgamated Nursery School is to help children grow cognitively, socially, emotionally and physically. Our philosophy provides a nurturing environment where children “learn how to learn.” Under the guidance of early childhood specialists, children are encouraged to develop their curiosity, explore their interests and realize their creativity. Through activities such as block building, dramatic play, art and music, our children develop the confidence and readiness necessary for their future education. Our school has proudly served the community as a parent cooperative for 75 years. It is a place where parents are encouraged to get involved with the school. We celebrate the diversity of our families and welcome the opportunity this affords us to learn about each other. Holiday art projects, cooking and stories are some of the ways that our children develop an awareness and respect for each other’s culture. We are proud to be voluntarily registered by the New York State Board of Regents and accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children, affirming our commitment to quality care in early childhood education.

Spaces are available for children from 2 years, 3 months to 4 years old. Classes begin the week of Sept. 14 and end June 2010. The teacher-student ratio is one to four in our Little Hands 2-year-old program; one to six in our threes program; and one to eight in our fours program. The Little Hands 2-year-old program runs from 9:15 to 11:15 a.m., either two or three mornings a week. Threeyear- old classes run five mornings a week with either 2, 3 or 5 full days available. Free Universal Pre-K classes for 4-year-olds, funded by the New York City Department of Education, are held five days a week, from either 9 a.m. to noon or from 1 to 4 p.m. Extended hours are available for 4-year-old students enrolled in UPK classes for tuition. Children may attend up to five full days a week, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Tuition is reasonable with partial scholarships available to families who demonstrate need.

Beth El Nursery School
North Field Road at North Avenue
New Rochelle, N.Y. 10804
914-235-2700 ext. 250
Director: Ronnie Becher

The Beth El Nursery School has designed a comprehensive program to enhance your child’s growth and potential, by creating a unique, non-competitive and nurturing atmosphere.

The Beth El environment is one where children can experience a sense of belonging, trust and encouragement.

Children are encouraged to take risks and explore in a nonjudgmental setting. Our goal is to provide a developmentally appropriate experience for all of our students. “Play” is fundamental to our program.

Through play, children investigate their world, discover how to get along with others, test their skills and muscles, try out new ideas and feel competent enough to try different activities. Curiosity, self-esteem, language, mathematics, cooperation, coordination and endurance are just a few of the many kinds of learning involved in play.

The nursery school offers classes for children 18 months to 5 years old. Two teachers and assorted enrichment specialists, including music, movement, creative dramatics and nature, staff all programs. The school features a state-of-theart facility and two outdoor year-round playgrounds. The school includes a Jewish curriculum, in which the Jewish Sabbath and holidays are celebrated.

The school year runs from September to June.

Chabad Early Learning Center
535 W. 246th St.
718-549-1100 ext. 11
E-mail: preschool@Chabadriverdale.org

The Chabad Early Learning Center of Chabad of Riverdale is dedicated to the education of children from a broad range of Jewish backgrounds and observances. At the center, emphasis is placed on the individual child and on encouraging each child’s inquisitiveness and thirst for knowledge. Our children are introduced to basic Jewish values and traditions through daily routines and interactive play. Our preschool was founded to provide a warm, nurturing environment where children are introduced to their Jewish heritage, discover the joys of learning and are gently acquainted with formal learning. The goal is to provide children with the early foundation and framework to prepare them for the transition to elementary school. In addition, we set to ignite a spark in each child to lay claim to his or her Jewish heritage and commit him or her to a lifetime passion for learning.

The school’s hands-on curriculum supports each child’s social, emotional, physical and intellectual development. Basic activities include music and movement, stories and discussions, various art activities, math, science, dramatic play, block building, Sabbath and Jewish holidays and neighborhood trips. Outdoor time in our beautiful, fenced-in playground is an important part of our program.

Registration for the school year is now open. We cater to children ages two, three and four years old. Please call Mrs. Tsipy Weiss to set up an appointment to take a tour of the school and hear more about our program.

Our preschool is located at the Chabad Youth Library. All the programs are under the supervision of Mrs. Weiss, who has 13 years of experience as an early childhood educator, with an M.A. in Early Childhood Education and a Judaic Diploma in Jewish Education.

Our class sizes are small with a great teacher-to-student ratio.

The following is our schedule of classes:

Two-year-olds: Monday through Friday, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. (We also have a two- and three-day option available.)

Three-year-olds: Monday through Friday, from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Four-year-olds: Monday through Friday, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

At Chabad we encourage and support parental involvement and provide parents with input into children’s growth and development through their participation in the parents’ association and parent/teacher conferences.

We have a few openings available for September 2009. To arrange an interview, call Mrs. Weiss at 718-549-1100 ext. 11.

Fieldston Lower School
3901 Fieldston Road
718-329-7313
Principal: George Burns

The pre-kindergarten (4s) program is the first year of entry into the Fieldston Lower School. The setting is small and nurturing — 18 children with two fulltime teachers. A unique, full-day program provides a balance of indoor/outdoor play, art, music, rhythm, block play and many age-appropriate activities that involve language, mathematics, social studies and science — all designed to allow the youngest children in the community to begin fostering a life-long love of learning.

Pre-kindergarten is the first year of an ongoing, 14-year program. There are also two classes per grade from kindergarten through fifth grade. The average number of students per class is 18 to 19 in kindergarten and 22 in grades one through five.

There are about 275 students in the entire lower school (pre-K to grade five).

The private school is non-denominational.

Gan Miriam Early Learning Center
3700 Henry Hudson Parkway
718-543-2553 or 718-796-4730
E-mail: ganrjc@aol.com
Director: Nurit Bacharach

Gan Miriam Early Learning Center is a licensed early childhood center for very young children — 20 months to 5 years old (pre-kindergarten). Gan Miriam provides its very young students and their families with a warm, stimulating and supportive traditional atmosphere. All families are welcome regardless of background and religious affiliation.

Gan Miriam’s environment is carefully structured to cater to the intellectual, emotional and physical needs of each of our young students. Our purpose is to expose children to age and developmentally appropriate growthproducing experiences. The Gan staff is made up of experienced, outstanding, dedicated, warm, nurturing professionals. Our teachers are organizers of experiences that enable our children to grow and learn in a play-based environment.

Jewish education is an integral part of the curriculum at Gan Miriam. In order to succeed in transmitting Jewish values to our young children, we set up their environment not only as a learning experience but a way of life. Through the Jewish holidays, Shabbat celebrations, outreach Tzedakah projects and intergenerational programs, we foster the growth of Jewish values from within.

The Gan is a “home away from home” for our children and their families. Parents feel encouraged to participate in their child’s life at Gan, becoming partners in raising children. Parental support and involvement fosters the success of the school. In addition to the Early Learning Center, Gan Miriam runs a “Mommy and Me” and summer camp programs. The Gan Miriam Early Learning Center is located at Riverdale Jewish Center, 3700 Independence Avenue, Bronx, New York.

For registration information, please call the director, Nurit Bacharach, at 718-543-2553 or e-mail GanRJC@aol.com.

Herbert G. Birch Early
Childhood Center
475 W. 250th St.
718-549-4753
Principal: Donna Fitzsimmons

The Birch Early Childhood Center is a 12-month program (180 school days and a 30-day summer session) that provides services for children with special needs from 2.6 to 5 years old. Our interdisciplinary team includes special educators, speech and language therapists, social workers, occupational and physical therapists. School hours are from 8:15 a.m. to 1:15 p.m., five days a week. In the context of a developmental framework, the school utilizes language-based programming. We focus on developing the communication, social, functional, behavioral and academic skills required for maximum independence of our students.

The number of students in each class ranges from 8 to 12, with one special education teacher and two teaching assistants. The approximate number of students in the school is 74.

The school is a private school with no religious affiliation. It is a not-for-profit school and funded through the Committee on Pre-School Special Education.

Kingsbridge Heights
Community Center
Child care options
3101 Kingsbridge Terrace
718-884-0700

The Kingsbridge Heights Community Center (KHCC) offers high-quality programs for children and young people, from toddlers to tweens, featuring close personal attention from highly trained staff. Parental involvement is encouraged. All programs accept private pay as well as ACD and HRA vouchers for children in the appropriate age groups.

Head Start/Early Head Start is a comprehensive child development program that is free for low-income families with children aged birth to 5 and/or pregnant women. It consists of half-day 3’s and 4’s classes, full-day 4’s and family- centered services, all based on the tenet that parents are their children’s primary educators and nurturers. In addition, Family Child Care Services are available.

The Family Child Care Network features licensed family child care providers who are trained to offer high-quality, affordable care for children in their homes. (Each business is licensed for children up to age 12, but sets its own age range.)

KHCC’s After School Program offers children ages 6-12 a full slate of educational, cultural and recreational experiences, including homework assistance, cooking, computers, arts, literacy enrichment and recreation. There is also a special Tween Program for students ages 12 to 14. Both are open Monday through Friday, from 3 to 6 p.m.

Free After School Respite Care is available for eligible families with mentally retarded or developmentally disabled children ages 5-21. (Students come directly from school.) Activities include arts and crafts, reading and computer literacy, music and basic life skills.

Summer Day Camp at KHCC features 6 weeks of safe, exciting fun for children ages 6-14. It is a diverse camp that values individuality and community awareness, promotes positive self-esteem and exposure to a variety of skills and experiences.

Call 718-884-0700 to schedule a visit to KHCC and find the program that is right for your family. KHCC is located at 3101 Kingsbridge Terrace between Perot and Summit streets, just east of the Deegan. Take 230th to Bailey Ave, right on Albany Crescent, merge with Kingsbridge Terrace.

Kinneret Day School
2600 Netherland Ave.
The Century building
718-548-0900
E-mail: kinneretday@aol.com
Web site: www.kinneretdayschool.org
Principal: Asher Abramovitz

Kinneret Day School provides early childhood education for 3-, 4- and 5-year-olds in a stimulating environment. It aims to help children gain self-confidence with reading and numerical skills; an introduction to song, dance, music and art; and have a celebration of the Jewish experience through learning about Jewish holidays and customs.

In recent years, the Kinneret School has emerged as a leader in early childhood education. In a society, which increasingly stresses the importance of early social interaction, the formative childhood years at Kinneret can be invaluable to your child.

The children have multi-experiences by working in small groups, one on one, and with the entire class. Trips to pick apples (followed by cooking and baking), to museums and to a matzoh factory, etc., expand the children’s view of life. They learn the art of giving, “tzedaka,” by running flea markets or cookie sales and donating the proceeds to the needy. The kindergarten class has a rabbit and two birds to teach the youngsters about animal needs.

The students celebrate the Jewish experience through learning about Jewish holidays and customs. Both languages, English and Hebrew, are used throughout the day.

The early childhood classes run all day, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Friday. The school classes start in September and go through June. The teacher-student ratio is one to 10.

Love Me Tender
School for Child Development
2500 Johnson Ave.
718-884-7252
E-mail: lmtschool@aol.com
Director: Susan Goldman

Love Me Tender is a state-approved special education preschool serving children ages 3 to 5 years old with delays or special needs. All children require referral from the local school district’s Comm. on Preschool Education, evaluation and approval before placement. There are approximately 75 students in the school. Each class has 12 children, one teacher and two teacher assistants, who work under the teacher’s direction. NYS Department of Education certifies all teachers in early childhood and special education and bilingual education in English and Spanish. All assistants are fluent English and Spanish speakers. Our curriculum recognizes a child’s needs and a child’s efforts to communicate, and provides enforcement and encouragement in a safe, nurturing environment. The classrooms are designed as interactive environments where children are encouraged to become independent. They are given the opportunity to expand their knowledge through unstructured, exploratory and structured, teacher-guided activities.

A thematic approach is used for planning a child’s educational needs. Activities are multi-sensory in order to help children to develop using all learning modalities. A language- based approach is primarily used as many children here have speech delays.

We feel it is essential to a child’s growth and development for the staff to have an ongoing relationship with families. Parents are team members, respected for their knowledge and commitment to their children’s education. Parents are both observers and participants in the educational process and they provide continuity and reinforcement of class activities for their children.

Marble Hill Nursery School
5470 Broadway
718-562-7055
E-mail: marblehill5470@aol.com
Director: Karen Worchel

Founded in 1953 by parents living in the Marble Hill Houses, Marble Hill Nursery School is a non-profit parent cooperative nursery school and day care center offering half-day and all-day classes to children 3 and 4 years old. The school also offers Universal Pre-Kindergarten classes for 4-year-olds.

The school, established with the support of Bank Street College, is characterized by a program rich in developmentally appropriate activities for children, a warm and nurturing staff and a dedicated parent body.
Through creative arts, music, block play, puzzles, games, woodworking and dramatic play, we challenge children’s ability to think creatively, learn about the feelings of others, and deepen their sensitivity to the world around them.

As a parent cooperative, parents are encouraged to participate occasionally in the classroom, giving them the unique opportunity to see programs in action. Also, parents participate fully in fund-raising events and on one of the school committees, all of which contribute to the operation of the school.

Marble Hill is especially proud of its lending library, outstanding social service program, and wonderful intergenerational music program.

Marble Hill is licensed by the Department of Health and holds a permanent charter for nursery and kindergarten from the New York State Department of Education. Call the school for information on how to register, the amount of tuition, and to make an appointment to visit.

Marion & George Ames Early
Childhood Learning Center
463 Hawthorne Ave., at Valentine Lane
Yonkers, NY 10705
914-375-8820
Director: Sharon Woods

The Marion & George Ames Early Childhood Learning Center is a licensed early childhood program serving children of varying abilities between the ages of 18 months and 5 years. Our modern, one-story building, located in Southwest Yonkers, offers a unique early childhood program in a warm, nurturing and safe environment.

Each classroom provides an educational experience that recognizes and values diversity. The staff at the Ames Center is dedicated to the belief that all children have the ability to learn and to progress intellectually, socially, emotionally and physically, regardless of individual strengths and differing abilities. We encourage individual freedom and self-directed learning through play, while providing a structured and positive learning environment where all children will be helped to reach their potential.

The Ames Center utilizes a developmentally appropriate educational curriculum, which supports children’s learning and development. It takes into consideration children’s learning styles, interests, preferences, personalities, temperaments, skills and talents. A wide range of support services are made available to all students in the program to help them achieve success in all areas of learning.

We offer a 12-month program in an integrated setting (SCIS in a 20:1:2 staffing ratio/ 10:1:2 for preschool children with disabilities), push-in therapy services (OT/PT/SP/ CO), an outdoor play space, and indoor gross motor equipment. We also offer wrap-around child care services (7:30 to 9 a.m., and 3 to 6 p.m.)

Please call Ivonne Dominguez for more information on enrollment at 914-375-8820. Mosholu Montefiore

Child Development Center
3450 DeKalb Ave.
718-882-4000 ext. 321
E-mail: mmcdcbronx@aol.com
Administrative director: Tara Pray
Educational director: Harriet Koretsky
Family worker: Patricia Arroyo
Family worker: Elaine Burgos
Family worker: JoAnn Chin

Co-op City Branch
100-A Aldrich St. and Baychester Avenue
718-320-2332
E-mail: coopmmcc@aol.com
Educational director: Nura Feury
Co-op City Hutchinson River Branch
4180 Hutchinson River Parkway
718-320-3222

Northside Annex
3512 DeKalb Ave.
718-405-0020
Educational director: Adrianna Becerril
Family worker: Keith Chest
Family worker: Clara Vaswani

Rochambeau Annex Early Child Center
3130 Rochambeau Ave.
718-882-0941
Educational director: Faith Shein
Family worker: Cecilia Morello

The Child Development Center (CDC) of the Mosholu Montefiore Community Center has been providing quality educational programs for young children, ages 1 to 5, without regard to race, religion or ethnic origin, since 1944. Day Care, Head Start and Universal Pre-Kindergarten are available, however not all programs are offered at all locations.

The classes provide a warm, nurturing and stimulating environment for children, in which they can thrive, socially, cognitively and physically. Qualified staff members have been selected for their knowledge, skill, care and patience in handling children during these formative years. Each classroom is designed to allow the children to explore the world around them, and enjoy learning via a stimulating and nurturing environment.

The CDC ensures that all children moving onto kindergarten are able to master the skills the new school environment will require upon entry. To that end, included in the curriculum are introductions to readiness skills in the areas of literacy, mathematics, science and creative arts. The classrooms provide a language-rich environment in which social, emotional, physical and health development are addressed through well-planned approaches to learning.

The curriculum also offers special music, art, dance and physical education programs. In the preschool classes, computers are available for the children’s use. Several trips are offered each year to such places as the Bronx Zoo, New York Aquarium and Green Meadows Farm, as well as a trip for apple picking.

During the school year, parents are offered a wide array of workshops. Along with a parent association to help parents become involved in their children’s education, the staff also includes a psychologist, a physician, a social worker and a nutritionist, available to the children and parents.

For more information or for an appointment to visit, call the center of interest.

Renanim at Riverdale Preschool
2975 Independence Ave.
718-601-1300
E-mail: renanimatriverdale@verizon.net
Director: Ronnie Turkowitz

Renanim at Riverdale Preschool and Summer Camp, known as the “The Happiness School,” provides exciting, fun-filled, multicultural experiences for each child. Our licenses enable us to accept children from 3 months through 6 years of age. We have half-day, full-day and extended-day programs to accommodate working parents. We also offer a 2.5-hour Universal Pre-Kindergarten program funded by the New York City Department of Education at no cost to the parents of eligible children.

Staffed by American and Israeli teachers, all of whom are certified and experienced in early childhood education, Renanim has an excellent child-to-teacher ratio — ranging from 3 to 1 in the youngest classes to 5 to 1 in the older classes. In our oldest classes, we provide breakfast and a Glatt Kosher hot lunch.

Through whole group instruction (circle time), small group work and individual activities, the teachers provide the children with various types of learning experiences in English as well as in Hebrew.

Our program is eclectic. We know that children learn mainly through play. Our large, bright classrooms are filled with manipulatives, blocks, trucks and dolls that offer the children the opportunity to engage in dramatic and imaginary play. Interactive and educational games stimulate their intellectual development. A large part of the program is devoted to the creative arts. We have special teachers for art, music and yoga who visit each class on a regular basis.

We use a variety of developmentally appropriate approaches to teach reading and math readiness skills. By the time they leave our school, our children recognize and understand the letters and sounds of the alphabet, write their names, recognize and understand numbers, and are able to focus on subjects at hand.

Adjacent to the school is our playground, equipped with age-appropriate toys, mats, and climbing apparatus where the children can develop their large motor skills and channel their energy in a safe, secure environment. Through these activities, they learn to work and play cooperatively. Field trips to plays, puppet shows, museums, and parks in the area enrich our curriculum. Monthly calendars and weekly letters keep parents apprised of the events in the school.

We schedule family activities throughout the year. In December, a Sunday Family Chanukah Arts and Crafts Workshop gives the entire Renanim community an opportunity to prepare for the holiday together. We hold a similar event prior to Purim. Plans are under way for a weekly Mommy and Me Program to give mothers and children an opportunity to enjoy time together in a preschool environment.

During the summer, we have two four-week camp programs. We welcome children from programs throughout the area, as well as children who are interested enrolling for our regular school program in September.

For further information, contact us at Renanim at Riverdale, 2975 Independence Ave., Bronx, NY 10463 (on the campus of the Schervier Nursing Care Center), visit our Web site at www.renanimpreschool.com, or call us at 718- 601-1300.

Riverdale Community School
25 Knolls Crescent - basement
718-543-0050
Director: Stephanie Singer

Riverdale Community School has served the Kingsbridge- Riverdale neighborhood since 1978. Our school is licensed by the New York City Department of Health.

We are a small nursery school, with an enrollment of 30 children and a staff of four. For over 20 years, we have provided young children with a secure, nurturing, family-style learning environment.

Activities are planned to give children an opportunity to express themselves through art, music and drama, as well as daily discussions. Children are encouraged to develop their coordination and motor skills with puzzles, block-building and outdoor activities. The curriculum includes field tripsand nature study to enhance their understanding of the world around them.

Our staff is professional. Our teachers are certified in early childhood education. Although academic work is an integral part of our day, the school and staff firmly believe in group socialization. Our school strives to build within each child a strong and positive self-image, one that gives them the confidence to function happily and successfully in any group situation.

Our school opens at 7:30 each morning. Children arriving at school between 7:30 and 9 a.m. can bring breakfast to eat at school. Our daily activities begin at 9 a.m.

Our preschool program, for children 2- to 3-years-old, stresses art, music, literature, drama, cooking and dance. Our pre-kindergarten program, in addition, introduces children 4-years-old to basic concepts, readiness skills and writing. Academic units include colors, shapes and number and letter recognition. Our daily activities end at 4 p.m. Children can remain at the school after 4 p.m. for snacks and free playtime. They must, however, be picked up before 5:30 p.m. School closes at 5:30 p.m. each evening.

Riverdale Community School is open five days per week, Monday through Friday. We close for a limited number of holidays during the school year, from September to June. We offer an eight-week summer program during July and August.

Our school offers a free pre-kindergarten class from 9 to 11:30 a.m., Monday through Friday. Children are eligible for this class if they enroll in our full-day program. These children must turn 4 four years old before December 31.

The Riverdale Community School has recently moved from its Riverdale Avenue site to 25 Knolls Crescent. Please call for directions to our new location.

Parents can visit their children at any time during the school year.

Riverdale Country School
Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten
1 Spaulding Lane
718-549-7780
E-mail: jherter@riverdale.edu
Web site: www.riverdale.edu
Director: Jonina Herter

Riverdale Country School’s early childhood program offers an excellent foundation for elementary school. Within an academically stimulating and developmentally appropriate environment, we offer our youngest children the social and readiness skills for learning that they will need in the years to come. Guided by their teachers, the children learn to work both cooperatively and independently. The tenets of our ethics program, CARE, are introduced and practiced on a daily basis.

The pre-kindergarten program recognizes that play is an important part of the young child’s world. Play allows children to dramatize roles that are reflective of the wider world. Dramatic play incorporates socially interactive behavior, as well as vocabulary and language development. In a carefully planned, pre-kindergarten environment, young children explore the beginning stages of writing, reading, mathematics and science.

In kindergarten, reading readiness is taught through a multi-sensory curriculum that includes literature, poetry, “big books,” and the acquisition of sight-word vocabulary. The integrated approach to skill development is evident in the writing program, which enables all children to begin a journal and to experience the joy of being an author.

The development of mathematical conceptual skills is fostered through creative exploration and direct interaction with manipulative materials (Unifex cubes, Cuisenaire rods, unit blocks). The science and social studies programs focus on the questions that growing children ask about the world around them. The campus at Riverdale Country School provides a unique laboratory for young children’s natural curiosity that is augmented by scientific inquiry and research in the classroom. Field trips extend the curriculum and bring the wider world closer.

In all areas of pre-kindergarten and kindergarten, an experiential, hands-on approach to learning is emphasized and involves writing, drawing, painting, gardening, woodworking, nature-walking, cooking, counting, patterning, graphing, sewing and block building.

Our youngest students find a structured and supportive environment for growth and a warm welcome to the stimulating and active world of learning.

Students 4 to 6 years old are accepted in pre-kindergarten and kindergarten. Classes begin in September and end in June. They are held Monday through Thursday, 8:30 a.m. to 3:10 p.m.; and Friday, until 2:10 p.m.

There are 16 students in the pre-kindergarten class and 20 students in each kindergarten through fifth-grade class. The teacher-student ratio is one to eight in prekindergarten, one to ten in kindergarten through second grade, and one to twenty in grades three through five.

The school is private, with no religious affiliation.

Riverdale Montessori School
5720 Mosholu Ave.
718-543-4884
E-mail: jasmineedu@aol.com
Web site: www.bronxmontessorischools. com
Director: Jasmine Stivala

The Riverdale Montessori School has as its basic philosophy that every child is an important person who should be shown respect and allowed to learn at his or her own pace.

The school has two large classrooms, each of which has its own loft library and private backyard. The children are guided in everyday living, math, language-reading, music and art. Lessons in singing and movement by specialty teachers are included. The Montessori approach builds concentration, coordination, love of learning andself-esteem in a child-centered, exciting environment.

The school serves children from 2 years, 9 months, to 6 years old. It is open from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., with the regular school day running from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The teacher- to-student ratio is one to nine. The average number of students in each class is 18, with about 40 students in the school. The regular school year runs from September to June with standard school holidays. We also offer a free Universal Pre-K program for children 4 years old. The school is private, has no religious affiliation and is licensed by the Department of Health.

Riverdale Neighborhood
House
5521 Mosholu Ave.
718-549-8100
Deputy director: Cathy Smith

Riverdale Neighborhood House offers a variety of early childhood programs to fit the different needs of our community’s families. From parttime nursery to full-time child care, we offer a stimulating and nurturing curriculum for children as they take their first steps outside of their homes. We offer bright and well-equipped classrooms as well as lovely grounds. We recommend that parents call us for information a year in advance, preferably in October.

We offer the following programs:

For four-year-olds:
RNH offers the free Universal Pre-K program, made possible through state funding. All four-year-olds who reside within New York City are eligible to participate. In addition to this five-day-a-week, twoand- a-half-hour program, parents have the option of adding an afternoon, extending the school day until 2:30 p.m. The charge for this is $4,500 per year.

Working parents who need longer hours may opt for the year-round, full-time child care program, which includes the UPK component. The tuition for this program, which opens at 8 a.m. and closes at 6 p.m., is $200 per week.

For three-year-olds:
RNH offers both part-time and full-time child care for three-year-olds. Parents who choose the nursery program can choose 5, 3 or 2 mornings as well an afternoon session. Yearly tuition ranges from $2,150-$5,250.

Year-round, full-time child care is also available for three-year-olds. This program, which opens as early as 8 a.m. and closes at 6 p.m., costs $225 weekly.

All early childhood programs are accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children, registered with the NYS Department of Education and licensed by the Department of Health.

Openings for September are limited. Please call Kathy Powers at ext. 133 for more information.

Riverdale Nursery School
and Family Center
3816 Waldo Ave.
718-884-3950
E-mail: info@rnsfc.org
Web site: www.rnsfc.org
Director: Susan Smelin

The Riverdale Nursery School and Family Center is a NAEYC-accredited, licensed preschool that provides a developmentally appropriate, interactive, educational environment for young children ages 1 to 5. Through our play-based program, children construct cognitive, social, emotional and physical knowledge and skill, as well as develop a love of learning and a positive attitude toward school. Our beautiful new facility was designed specifically as a preschool and houses a state-of-the art playground with an organic garden.

The Riverdale Nursery School offers morning, afternoon and extended day classes with an excellent staff-student ratio. The school maintains a diverse and inclusive population of children 2 to 5 years old, including those with special challenges who are ready for a mainstream, integrated setting with support. Early drop-off and extended hours are available. The school promotes hands-on learning and an environmental curriculum that cultivates an awareness of the natural world. The Riverdale Nursery School and Family Center sustains an active Parents’ Group and sees the education of young children as a partnership between the family and school. Additionally, the school provides post nursery school placement counseling for entry into the independent schools, schools serving children with special needs, and local and specialized public schools.

The Riverdale Nursery School and Family Center offers toddler programs, such as “Good Times/Good Talks,” throughout the school year and summer for children ages 12 to 36 months old. The Family Center runs support groups, seminars and workshops, after-school and enrichment programs, and a summer program. All Family Center programs are open to the community.

Enrollment is currently taking place for the 2009-2010 school year. Summer enrollment begins in April. For information, contact the director, Susan Smelin, at 718-884- 3950.

The Riverdale Presbyterian
Church Nursery School
4765 Henry Hudson Parkway
718-548-8260
Director: June Cohler

The Riverdale Presbyterian Church Nursery School (RPCNS), founded in 1954, is a non-sectarian, fully licensed pre-school that offers both half- and full-day programs for 2-, 3- and 4-year-old children. The 4-year-old program features both a private morning program and a 2-1/2 hour afternoon fully funded Universal Pre- Kindergarten program, which is supported by the NYC Department of Education and is free of charge.

RPCNS also offers a program for families with younger children, Parent/Toddler classes conducted by an early childhood specialist.

Our curriculum exposes children to a wide variety of pre-school learning experiences, aimed at stimulating their imagination and intellectual curiosity. Our developmental philosophy is play based and child centered. It involves learning through activities using the five senses. We emphasize socialization, language arts and age-appropriate literacy, mathematics, science, technology, social sciences, nutrition, and performing arts.

RPCNS provides an enriched environment intended to foster the appreciation and expansion of your child’s experiential world. This is achieved via a curriculum that includes a specialized yoga and music program, and environmental awareness activities such as an organic gardening program and an outdoor playground where your child can enjoy playing in a safe, country-like setting. Your child’s learning experience is also bolstered by our exceptional children’s library and frequent field trips.

Our nutritional approach features low-sugar, organic, kosher snacks. RPCNS is a “tree-nut” free school.

A cohesive and active Parents Association provides the RPCNS community with support and planning of special events for the school community. Monthly coffee hours are held on selected weekday mornings and evenings and feature lectures and discussions by guest speakers on topics such as nutrition, behavior and learning styles, financial planning, and educational choices for kindergarten. Early drop-off and a lunch program are available.

A three- or five-week summer camp program is available for both our current children and those who will be enrolled for 2009-10. For more information, please visit our Web site at www.rpcns.com. To schedule an appointment for a tour, contact the director, June Cohler, at 718-548-8260.

Riverdale Temple Nursery School
4545 Independence Ave.
718-796-0335
E-mail: rivtemple@aol.com
Director: Frana Mills

Riverdale Temple’s Nursery School is accredited by the New York City Department of Health-Division of Day Care, and is registered with the New York State Department of Education. Our teachers, experienced in the most advanced techniques of nursery education, offer warmth, understanding and guidance to young children. The Riverdale Temple Nursery School creates a learning environment that is based upon an understanding of the needs of each child. In an atmosphere that is warm and nurturing, the teachers guide each child’s social, physical and intellectual development in accordance with the child’s interests and potential. The goal is to provide an enriched learning experience during these crucial early years.

Programs are available for 2, 3 and 4 year olds. Interwoven in the program is an introduction to our beautiful Jewish heritage. The weekly observances of Shabbat as well as the Jewish holidays are celebrated through meaningful experiences. In this way it is hoped that both children and parents will come to feel a deeper participation in the family life of the temple.

For a complete schedule of classes, please call the director of our nursery school, Frana Mills, at 718-796-0335.

Riverdale Tiny Tots
453 W. 261st St.
718-796-1097
Director: Bridget M. Wallace

Riverdale Tiny Tots is a fully licensed and insured 12-month program. Activities include art, music, movement, story time, science, block building, sight words, writing and dramatic play. There is a spacious, fencedin outdoor playground.

The teachers are licensed and experienced. The staff is nurturing and caring. There are enriched programs with an experienced and loving staff.

The New York City Board of Health-Division of Day Care licenses Tiny Tots.

Tiny Tots offers a variety of activities in a warm and spacious setting especially designed to meet the needs of young children. Classes are small.

We cook a hot lunch for the children each day. We also serve breakfast and three snacks.

Parents are welcome to visit, by appointment.

During the summer, the school is run like a camp, with sprinklers and water activities on the outdoor playground. Children 2 to 5 years old are accepted. There is an average of seven children in each class, with about 18 youngsters in the school. The teacher-to-student ratio is one to four. The school is open Monday to Friday, 7:45 a.m. to 5:45 p.m. It is private and non-sectarian.

Riverdale YM-YWHA Nursery School
5625 Arlington Ave.
718- 548-8200 ext. 220, 221
E-mail: rbrockman@riverdaley.org
Web site: www.riverdaley.org
Interim Director: Ronnie Brockman

The Riverdale YM-YWHA Nursery School is a community early childhood program committed to the highest of excellence in early childhood education.

It operates under the auspices of the Riverdale YM-YWHA, a Jewish community center, and is licensed by the New York City Department of Health and the New York State Department of Education.

It is the philosophical aim of the school to promote chilteaching strategies and environment are all based upon what early childhood educators know about the way young children develop and learn. Our staff considers the strengths, as well as interests and needs, of each individual child in the group and pairs it with all we know about child development when planning classroom programs. In a relaxed and secure atmosphere, our experienced head teachers, masters degree trained in early childhood education, guide each child’s social, emotional, physical and intellectual development in keeping with his/her own unique style of learning.

Children learn best in a clearly structured program while working together with their classmates, teachers and family members. Learning through play and hands-on experiences are integrated in a manner that encourages children to expand their knowledge and skills in various areas. In our developmentally appropriate program, children will learn how to be members of a group and develop skills in language and literacy, mathematics and science, and social studies.

Weekly music enrichment and movement skills instruction are additional elements of our program. We are committed to building a strong sense of community between parents, teachers and children. Celebrating Shabbat as well as Jewish holidays, our curriculum is infused with Jewish values and traditions to help children learn the joy of Jewish culture and heritage and strengthen the bonds of our community.

The Riverdale YM-YWHA is a smoke-free and drug-free environment.

The nursery school is in the Y’s Fred and Anna Landau Building, which features the Rose Family Early Childhood Education Center with classrooms especially designed for young children. The Adam Marcus Playground features a challenging outdoor play structure, combining a variety of climbing and sliding units in a sand base. A safety-surfaced play deck provides a second outdoor play area and gives the children opportunities to use riding toys, large building blocks and other equipment. During inclement weather, the children use the indoor gym, set up with early childhood equipment. All four-year-old children enrolled for a full day participate in a swim instruction program led by the staff of the Y’s aquatics department.

Parent/staff communication is encouraged, with newsletters, conferences and special times for parents to visit classrooms. A child development consultant from the Jewish Board of Family and Children’s Services is available to parents through a special UJA grant.

As part of a community center, the nursery school also offers children an opportunity to participate in intergenerational programs with seniors, and other Y classes in dance, art, swimming and gym.

The Y hosts the Universal Pre-Kindergarten program for 4-year-old children. This program is a partnership with the Department of Education and tuition is free. The Y’s experienced nursery school teachers teach the UPK classes. The program follows the educational philosophy and program of the rest of the nursery school excluding the Jewish educational component. The UPK can be blended with the nursery school program to provide a full-day program for children.

Children ages 2 to 4.9 are accepted with rolling admissions to our full-day and half-day programs. The number of students in each class is 10 to 18, depending upon age. The teacher-to-student ratio is one to five or one to nine, depending upon age. Through the Kids’ Corner Program, supervised by the nursery school staff, full day 2-, 3- and 4-yearolds can receive care until 6 p.m. early morning coverage is available beginning at 8 a.m.

A variety of parent/toddler classes are offered in the Parenting Center for children between the ages of 11 and 36 months, with parents or caregivers.

Not Yet Two, a preschool alternative, is offered on Tuesdays and Thursdays, for two hours. This is a full-year program for children who turn 2 between September and January of each school year. The first half of the year, parents and children will enjoy the program together. In January, the separation process begins and the children move into an independent program for 2 year olds.

Nursery school begins in September and runs through mid-June. Our camp program for children this age follows soon after nursery school ends and thematic vacation programs are planned throughout the year. A separate brochure is available.

Salanter Akiba Riverdale Academy
Early Learning Center
655 W. 254th St.
718-548-1717 ext. 1215
Web site: www.saracademy.org
Director: Marcia Jacobowitz

The Early Learning Center of the SAR Academy strives to offer children gratifying school experiences in a warm, loving environment. The ELC seeks to develop curiosity, encourage exploration and foster socialization. All of this takes place in an enriched Jewish setting where song, dance, art and holiday customs are completely integrated with the day-to-day activities. The experiences provided at the ELC set the stage for the child’s continued growth at the elementary school.

There are approximately 15 to 22 children in a class, with two to three teachers per group. Specialty teachers, in such areas as art, music, gym, library and chess, are available every week to enhance the program.

Outdoor time is an important part of the curriculum at the ELC. There are two playgrounds on the campus, offering a wide variety of interesting play units and climbing structures. One area is built around the theme of Noah’s Ark.

Computers, with the latest preschool software, are available for all children. After-school programs, such as karate, cooking and baking, chess, soccer, aviation and jewelry making, are options for kindergartners.

After-school childcare, from 3 to 4:15 p.m., is available for all ELC age groups.

St. Gabriel’s Pre-Kindergarten
590 W. 235th St.
718-548-0444
Principal: Deborah Pitula

St. Gabriel School pre-kindergarten offers a traditional nursery program with a variety of individual and group experiences designed to stimulate social, emotional, intellectual and spiritual growth.

The program is a parent-cooperative with morning sessions. Class size varies from 12 to 18 with an adult-to-child ratio of one to six.

St. Gabriel’s is a Roman Catholic parochial school with approximately 220 children in grades pre-kindergarten through eight.

An open house with a guided tour will be held on Monday, Feb. 9, from 9 to 11 a.m. Tuition is moderate. For information on the application process, please call the school office.

St. John’s Pre-Kindergarten
3143 Kingsbridge Ave.
718-548-0255
Principal: Ray Vitiello

St. John’s offers an affordable program for 4-year-olds. Established as a moderately priced alternative to early childhood programs in the area, St. John’s offers the young child a first-school experience in the supportive atmosphere of a caring, Catholic environment. Our 4-year-olds attend a fullday session with an optional after-school program. Materials in the classroom have been carefully selected for large and small group lessons as well as materials appropriate for individual needs. In addition to daily creative art, singing and storytime, there are formal classes once a week in art, music and gym.

For information on the registration process, call the school office.

Silver Spoons Group Day Care
3445 Corlear Ave.
718-543-5373
E-mail: silverspoonsdaycare@yahoo.com
Director: Solangel Brujan, MSED
Assistant director: Johanna Edmondson, MSW

Our mission at Silver Spoons Day Care is to provide rich, authentic experiences that will enhance the cognitive and social development of children. All caregivers in this program are fully certified and have rich experiences that transcend into the instructional plans and care of all children. Our ratio is five children per caregiver. In our day care we provide weekly lesson plans, daily activities, and a menu plan suitable for children between the ages of 2 to 4 years old. In addition to a well-trained staff, we have an onsite cook who provides fresh and wholesome meals throughout the day.

At Silver Spoons, children learn about mathematical reasoning, phonemic awareness and scientific inquiry. We provide an abundance of activities that teach children the necessary fundamental skills for continuous academic success. Our facility is equipped with an indoor playground that has 6 learning centers, props and materials. Our outdoor playground has three slides and two houses for children to interact in. Our library includes a variety of literature, including reading books, big books and magazines.

We also incorporate computers into our educational curriculum. Our hours of operation are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Parents are welcome to pick up their child at any time of the day. The weekly tuition is $180 for full time and $120 for part time. The days and times can vary to accommodate parents’ work schedules. To accommodate all families, we accept cash, check or government assistance.

At Silver Spoons, we provide quality child care and promote children’s optimal learning. From learning to hold their cup, to learning how to read, we help children feel successful and fulfilled in early childhood. We welcome all families to delve into the caring, fun, and innovative world of Silver Spoons.

Spuyten Duyvil Pre-School
3041 Kingsbridge Ave.
718-549-1525
E-mail: director@spuytenduyvilpreschool.org
Web site: www.spuytenduyvilpreschool.org
Director: Judi Menken

Spuyten Duyvil Pre-School, also known as the Spuyten Duyvil Infantry, has been providing nursery school for children in the community since 1928. The school offers half- and full-day programs for young children, ages 2 years, 9 months through 5 years old.

Spuyten Duyvil Pre-School will offer Universal Pre-Kindergarten for children born in 2005. This free program is available to children living in Community School District 10. Children may attend a morning or afternoon session, with limited space available for the Lunch Bunch program. An optional early drop-off program, beginning at 7:30 a.m., and a late pick-up until 6 p.m. are available, allowing families to design the schedule that best meets their family’s needs.

The well-established school has a warm, flexible and appropriately stimulating environment, which is designed to encourage independence, social growth, creativity and enjoyment of learning. The school’s “hands-on” curriculum supports each child’s social, emotional, physical and intellectual development. Basic activities include music and movement, stories and discussions, various art activities, math and science, dramatic play, block building and cooking. Parent involvement is welcome.

A multi-cultural, multi-ethnic student body and staff lay a foundation for the development of self-esteem and acceptance of diversity. We are happy to answer any questions interested families may have. Better yet — please visit! Monthly open houses and guided tours are scheduled throughout the year.

Stein Yeshiva & Camp Shemesh
287 Central Park Ave.
Yonkers, NY 10704
914-965-7082
E-mail: steinyeshivaoffice@yahoo.com
Principal: Rabbi Yoseph Cherns

Stein Yeshiva is just 10 minutes from Riverdale and has classes for toddlers through eighth grade. There are partand full-time programs for early childhood and extended day. The licensed day care program for infants means that children of working parents can spend their earliest months in a warm yeshiva environment.

The preschool offers a dynamic program that encourages each child’s social and intellectual growth, independence, creativity and enjoyment of learning. It also develops in the children a love of Torah and Yiddishkeit.

Everyday learning comes to life through an array of hands-on experiences in pre-reading, math, science, dramatic play, music and movement, and arts and crafts. The children enjoy the friendly and stimulating atmosphere that permeates the yeshiva.

There are boys’ and girls’ divisions for grades one to eight. The high-quality limudei kodesh and general studies curriculums are based on a philosophy that teaches children how, and not just what to learn. Each child’s learning style is taken into consideration.

With small classes, students enjoy a close relationship with their rebbeim and moros, as well as much personal attention. By eighth grade, Stein Yeshiva students are prepared for the yeshiva high school of their choice.

Susan E. Wagner Day
School at Riverdale
5401 Post Road
718-601-5401
Executive Director: Joyce L. James
Director: Alycia C. Rhinehart

Susan E. Wagner Day School at Riverdale is one of three sister schools located throughout Bronx County.

We serve toddlers, preschoolers and kindergartners. We are also an evaluation site for preschool special education services.

Our multicultural setting includes multilingual children and staff, including French and Russian. Our programs include Universal Pre-Kindergarten, preschool special education, day school and day care. Our special education services include the clinical specialties —physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy and counseling.

Early literacy, language arts, music/ movement, creative expression through art, discovery science, numeracy/mathematical concepts, neighborhood/nature walks, dramatic play, block play and outdoor play are part of our students’ general curricular emphases. Children served in our program are from 2 years through 6 years of age. Hours of service begin at 7:30 a.m. through 6 p.m., Monday through Friday. Nutritious meals, including breakfast, lunch and snack, are served to our children each school day.

Our open door policy gives parents and family members the chance to visit and interact with classroom teachers, as well as clinicians, for the purpose of forging strong relationships and communication for the benefit of our children.

Our program is designed to address the dynamic and positive development of the whole child. Quality care includes promoting each child’s psychological, social, emotional, cognitive, physical, cultural and language development. We strongly believe that children thrive in an environment where their best interests are at the core of professional practice.

Enrollment is ongoing throughout the academic year. For more information and registration, please feel free to call our school office.

The Yearling
Nursery School
604 W. 227th St.
718-549-1606
Director: Sylvia Fox

The Yearling Nursery School provides programs for toddlers, preschoolers and pre-kindergarten. Our programs provide our children with a warm, supportive learning environment. The small class size allows our teachers to provide greater attention to our children’s individual needs. Our teachers involve the children in group and independent activities. Special attention is given to helping children to develop appropriate communication to express their needs and feelings.

The children’s days are planned to include indoor activities, like block building, dramatic play, puzzles, manipulatives and arts and crafts. Our learning units include natural science, family and community, and mathematics in our world.

Separate daily times for outdoor play are scheduled for the different age groups. The outdoor area is fully equipped and the entire school property is enclosed for our children’s safety. The pre-K program provides our children with a full pre-literacy program. This participation provides an excellent opportunity for the children to experience activities that will help them make an easy transition to kindergarten. They will develop skills needed for the balanced literary programs in which they participate.

Our toddler programs admit children 15 months to 2-1/2 years old. Our preschool age 3 class admits children 2.7 to 3.9 years old. Our pre-K class admits children ages 3.9 to 4.9. All of the programs provide half- or full-day hours. We also provide 8 a.m. early morning drop-off and extended day hours until 6 p.m.

All summer and fall programs have 5 full or half days, 3 full or half days. In addition, the Toddler program has two full and two half-day programs.