Programs
What to look for?
In our classrooms you will see:
Teachers speaking to children at eye level and ensuring that each child is heard.
Spacious environments that are orderly, clean and bright.
Interesting materials which foster independence and collaborative learning.
Actively engaged children are making their own choices and speaking their ideas.
Children moving their bodies through active play inside and outdoors.
Children in contact with the natural world and natural product.
Children exploring art and sensory materials to engage all their senses to find ways to represent their world.
Learn more:
"I Learn From Children," Caroline Pratt, creator of Unit Blocks (free Audible)
“Play is More than Just Fun,” TED Talk by Dr. Stuart Brown
Toddlers & Threes Programs
RIDN at 405 Main Street (Riverwalk) offers high-quality early care and education for children from twelve months old through 3 years old (as of September 1st).
The programs for our youngest children are designed to support development in a nurturing and responsive environment. Guided by experienced and professional educators, children are given the opportunity to explore the world around them. At their own pace, they are encouraged to develop new skills as they learn and grow physically, socially, and cognitively.
We offer a 10-month program from September through June with a summer option add-on. Depending on availability, children may be enrolled for a 2-day (Tuesday/Thursday), 3-day (Monday/Wednesday/Friday), or 5-day program. We do not currently offer half-day programs.
Preschool
3K and UPK
The 3K and Pre-Kindergarten at 4 River Road (for children 2 years 9 months - 4 years 8 months) runs from September through June.
Apply online through the Department of Education website: MySchools.nyc
Since fall 2016, Roosevelt Island Day Nursery has offered FREE,
full-day programming as part of New York City’s Universal Prekindergarten Programming, also known as “Pre-K for All.”
As of fall 2023 we also offer 3-K.
3-K and UPK FAQs
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What play facilities do you offer?There is a playground steps away from our school. Children play outside in all but the most inclement weather for 50 minutes a day. We also offer an inside playspace with gross motor equipment.
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Is my child eligible for UPK?Children who turn four years old on or before December 1st are eligible for UPK.
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WHEN and HOW do I register?The 3-K and UPK applicationsystem opens in February, spaces are offered through a lottery system. For more information, click here for the schools.nyc.gov website.
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Do you offer early drop-off and after-school programming?For a fee we offer an Afternoons at RIDN program from 3-5:30 pm
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Is my child eligible for 3-K?Children are eligible for 3-K in the calendar year that they turn three years old.
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What curriculum do you follow?Our school has elected to follow the Department of Education’s own curriculum, as it offered the most flexibility for our school to honor its historically progressive approach to early childhood education and underlying philosophies, including the views that children are competent and capable, and that play is the “work” of children.
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Do children sleep at school?While a rest period is required, teachers are able to accommodate children with varying sleep requirements.
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How much does it cost?3-K and UPK are free. There is no cost to families.
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Are lunch and snacks provided?Yes, FREE healthy snacks and lunches are provided by an outside food vendor. Children also have the option of bringing food from home.
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How can I take a tour?We will host a Meet and Greet for registered families on May 13th.