Top Staten Island Preschools
Choosing a preschool is one of the first big milestones in your parenting journey, and it’s a meaningful one. For many families, it’s where children begin to explore the world beyond home, make new friends, and start building the foundation for a lifelong love of learning. Preschools across Staten Island offer more than finger painting and storytime (though there’s plenty of that, too!). They blend creativity, structure, and play-based learning to support children’s social, emotional, and intellectual growth. The right preschool not only eases the transition to kindergarten but also gives parents peace of mind. To help you in this exciting stage, we’ve rounded up standout preschools near you to find the perfect fit for your family.
High Hopes of Staten Island
1298 Woodrow Road, Woodrow
718-317-8143, admin@highhopeschildcare.com
highhopeschildcare.com
Established in 1996 and licensed by the DOHMH, High Hopes provides childcare in a loving and nurturing environment—the center partners with the NYC Department of Education to offer free pre-K and pre-K3 programs. High Hopes offers full—and half-day nursery programs for 2—to 3-year-olds and a full-day infant and toddler program for children born in 2024 and 2025.
Holy Child Preschool
4747 Amboy Road, Eltingville
718-356-5159, preschool@holy-child.org
holychildsi.com/preschool
Holy Child Preschool is a nurturing start for a lifetime of learning. For over 50 years, families have trusted Holy Child Preschool as the place where their children take their very first steps into school. This private preschool offers full-day and half-day programs for ages 2–5, including 2K, 3K, and 4K, designed to build confidence, creativity, and curiosity. Licensed by the Department of Health, the school provides a safe, secure environment with fully vetted, qualified staff who care for each child as if they were their own. Holy Child Preschool is tuition-based and accepts CWE vouchers, allowing more families to experience its nurturing programs. Children leave ready for kindergarten—and excited for the future.
JCC of Staten Island
Bernikow JCC,
1466 Manor Road, Bernikow
718-475-5230
Avis/South Shore JCC,
1297 Arthur Kill Road, South Shore
718-475-5224
Berman Early Childhood Education Center,
2221 Richmond Ave., New Springville
718-475-5100
JCC Early Childhood Center at Temple Israel,
10 Gregg Place, Dongan Hills
718-475-5290
sijcc.org
The JCC of Staten Island offers a daycare program and 3-K and Pre-K for All. Teachers create fun, hands-on learning opportunities that provide children with a strong educational foundation. The JCC offers flexible schedules at four convenient locations, including schools on the North Shore, South Shore, and Mid-Island. The JCC also provides First Foot Forward, a preschool program for children with disabilities. Extended hours and free lunch are available. Programs are staffed with caring and experienced professionals. Teachers are certified by the New York State Education Department. The JCC is licensed by the Department of Health’s Bureau of Day Care. With over 60 years of experience in early childhood education, the JCC will give your child the best start!
Staten Island Academy
715 Todt Hill Road
718-303-7803
Ryan Shaps rsh
statenislandacademy.org
Staten Island Academy offers a Pre-Kindergarten Program which is nurturing, challenging and intentionally small in size to provide the best in experiential learning and extracurricular resources. Small class sizes benefit young children, ensuring individualized attention from teachers, confirming that each child’s personal learning needs are met. Teachers truly know their children—their strengths, weaknesses, needs and challenges. They are also able to identify their gifts. Small classes enable teachers to see students clearly, recognize their individual learning styles and then take steps both to challenge and inspire them. Small class sizes enhance safety and emotional well-being, as teachers can provide adequate supervision, establish meaningful partnerships with families and reinforce an approach to learning shared by listening, encouragement and motivation.
Tender Care Preschool
6581 Hylan Blvd., South Shore
718-317-2849
tendercarepreschool.com
Tender Care Preschool provides a stimulating early education experience that promotes each child’s social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development. It is a loving and caring place for children and families. The preschool 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. Their highly qualified staff is committed to the families they serve, and they are licensed by the NYC Department of Health and Education. Programs include a dull-day 2-year-old program, a free full-day 3K, and pre-K4 extended hours from 7 am-5 pm.
