Early Childhood Program

3K and 4K at Riverdale Neighborhood House

Going off to preschool is more than just a play experience; it is an introduction to life. At Riverdale Neighborhood House, our goal is to spark wonder and ignite learning in every child. We plan our curriculum with the whole child in mind, incorporating play, experimentation and creative hands-on experiences into our daily curriculum.

The activities will promote the social, cognitive, and physical development of each child at their own pace. Together, we explore, experiment, and problem solve.

We approach separation with understanding and believe that by allowing children to build trust with adults in their lives, we are helping to lay the groundwork for future positive school experiences. We do this by honoring and developing each child’s identity, interests, and personality in an inclusive, diverse, and nurturing environment.

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No cost 3K and Pre-K with NYS Certified Teachers

schedule

Program runs from 8:30am-2:50pm

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Early drop off available from 7:30am-8:30am Afterschool from 2:50pm-6:00pm

Learn about our Twos Program

The Classroom Experience

Our classrooms provide children with an environment where they can build trust in adults, feel comfortable interacting with their peers, and explore new interests.

The classroom is designed intentionally to teach, support, and celebrate all students.

Each classroom is equipped with early childhood essentials including building blocks, props for dramatic play, art and writing supplies, manipulatives, and a reading corner. Children also experience spaces outside of the classroom, including the library, teaching garden, playgrounds, and gymnasium.

After School Program

For registered families who need additional hours of care, we offer an extended day program from 2:50pm-6:00pm. During this time, children will participate in a wide variety of activities, including recreation, arts & crafts, and outdoor time.

The After School Program costs $6,000 for the 10 month session. Financial assistance is available.

We also offer vacation camps for Winter Recess and Spring Break to families enrolled in our 3K/4K program.

Family Corner

For more information about enrollment, please visit the DOE website here.

Useful Forms & Documents:

Upcoming Important Dates

  • Wednesday November 27th

    RNH Closed-Professional Development Day

  • Thursday November 28th - Friday November 29th

    RNH Closed-Thanksgiving Holiday

  • Friday December 6th

    Program closes at 12 PM-Professional Development

FAQs

  • We typically have 15 children in each Threes Class and 18 students in each Fours Class. We always have at least two teachers (one head teacher and one assistant) per classroom.

  • Yes. Our Early Childhood program is licensed by the New York City Department of Health and we are registered with the NYS Department of Education.

  • Our 3K and 4K programs are funded by the NYC Department of Education and are free of cost. Our After School program (2:50-6pm) costs $6,000 for the September-June school year. Early morning drop off (7:30-8:30am) costs $2,500 for the school year.

  • No, we provide lunch and a snack for every child. Our facilities are all nut-free and our meals follow nutritional guidelines for healthy eating. If your family has special dietary or religious concerns, please reach out to us.

  • Every week, we make sure that each class experiences new activities in new spaces. Classes will travel to our library for reading circle, the gymnasium for yoga, the garden for exploring, and the yard for music class. Classes also spend time outside in our play spaces twice a day.

  • If a child needs support services in the classroom, we will work together to create a plan to support the child’s needs and development. We have relationships with experienced Occupational Therapists, Physical Therapists, Speech Therapists, and Special Education Itinerant Teachers (SEIT).

  • If you are a parent of a current student, you can find all necessary forms above in the ‘Family Corner’.

Tour the Dodge Building

Virtual Meeting with Our 4s

Have a question about our Early Childhood Program?

Please reach out to Kathy Powers, Early Childhood Coordinator kpowers@riverdaleonline.org
(718) 549-8100 ex. 133