Top Staten Island Preschools
As we anticipate the arrival of summer, now is the perfect time to consider your child’s early educational journey. Whether you’re a first-time parent or exploring new options, finding the right preschool can feel overwhelming. Identifying programs that prioritize creativity, social interaction, and foundational learning is essential. But is a traditional preschool or a Montessori school—which offers a unique approach that encourages child-led exploration and independence—right for your little one? We’ve explored some local preschools and Montessori schools to give you a head start in securing a spot that aligns with your values and nurtures your child’s interests.
Big Bird’s Playhouse
1859 Richmond Ave.
718-982-0550
bigbirdsplayhouse.com
info@bigbirdsplayhouse.com
Since 1991, Big Bird’s Playhouse has been serving and providing a safe environment where children feel loved and respected and can learn, grow, and build a foundation for their future. Big Bird’s Playhouse believes that children can learn from play, stories, and arts and crafts at their daily centers. Their staff is warm, caring, and sensitive to each child’s specific needs. The school serves children from 3 months to 12 years old. Pre-K and Pre-K 3 are free full days of instruction for 6 hours and 20 minutes; before and after care is available for a fee. Extended hours are available.
JCC of Staten Island
Bernikow JCC: 1466 Manor Road, 718-475-5230
Avis/South Shore JCC: 1297 Arthur Kill Road, 718-475-5224
Berman Early Childhood Education Center: 2221 Richmond Ave., 718-475-5100
JCC Early Childhood Center at Temple Israel: 10 Gregg Place, 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 offers 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 State Education Department of New York. The JCC is licensed by the Department of Health’s Bureau of Day Care.
Staten Island Academy
715 Todt Hill Road
718-303-7803
ccrane65@statenislandacademy.org
statenislandacademy.org
Staten Island Academy offers a nurturing, challenging and intentionally small pre-K
program to provide the best in experiential learning and extracurricular resources. Small class sizes benefit young children, ensuring individualized attention from teachers and confirming that each child’s personal learning needs are met. Teachers know their children’s strengths, weaknesses, needs, and challenges, as well as their gifts. Small classes enable teachers to see students clearly, recognize their individual learning styles and take steps both to challenge and inspire them. Small class sizes also 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.
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 who are well-prepared for their educational journey. It offers a full-day 2-year-old program and a free full-day 3- and 4-year-old program with extended hours.
Tiny Treasures Academy & University
396 Van Duzer Street
718-273-5157
tinytreasuresdaycare.com
This early childhood center offers a warm, family-focused environment where young children can thrive. With a small, supportive setting, the school creates a positive developmental impact through advanced, thoughtfully tailored programs for infants, preschoolers, and pre-kindergartners. Purposefully designed classrooms and a private outdoor space inspire daily learning and play. The center is especially working-family friendly, providing flexible and extended hours to accommodate busy schedules. Now open is a brand new Pre-Kindergarten facility—a vibrant, engaging space where each child’s potential is nurtured every step of the way. Families seeking a strong, joyful foundation in early education will find the perfect fit in this beautiful educational space.
