The Brownstone School has six preschool classes. Each group is identified by color and, except for the young two's, have an entire floor to themselves. Classrooms are air-conditioned, bright, spacious, and equipped with age-appropriate areas that promote both child and teacher-directed activities. Routines and daily schedules are maintained but not strictly followed to allow for flexibility and spontaneity. A newly renovated backyard equipped with a double slide, climbing apparatus, a short tunnel, tricycles, child-size basketball hoop, and metal "VW beetle" is available for all to use. The Upper West Side has lots of fun places for children to visit, so Brownstone students often make trips. They visit Central Park, The Museum of Natural History, Riverside Parks, and others. The children also have music and movement classes.

A Typical Day

     The Brownstone School sets high standards for the education of young children. Our approach is developmentally appropriate and child-centered, focusing on the social, emotional, intellectual and physical needs of each child. Daily schedules offer a broad range of structured and unstructured activities and provide children with the security of a routine. Working independently and in small groups, the children learn through play and hands-on exploration of selected materials. Dramatic play, children's literature, puppets, games, puzzles, blocks, artistic mediums, music, creative movement, outdoor activities, water play, cooking, and manipulatives promote the development of pre-reading and pre-math skills and foster understanding of scientific concepts. Social interactions with peers and teachers through such activities challenge children to learn appropriate ways to express their feelings and develop their interests.

Schedules

     We offer flexible schedules to meet the needs of the child and his/her family.

     There is a choice of half day 9:00 AM - 12:30 PM (AM program) and 1:30 PM-4:30 PM (PM Program); full day, 9:00 AM - 3:30 PM, or extended day, 8:00 AM - 5:45 PM.

      Children can attend 2, 3, or 5 days per week. For a nominal fee, early drop-off and extra hours are available to families whose children attend half and full days.