Investing in the right preschool ensures your child has a strong start to their educational journey. It sets the foundation for a child's emotional, social, and intellectual development. 

Mission Statement:

To provide a nurturing and inclusive environment where young children can explore, learn, and grow through play-based and developmentally appropriate activities, fostering curiosity, creativity, and a lifelong love for learning. 

Vision Statement:

To be a leading preschool that inspires and prepares young minds for future academic and social success, cultivating confident, compassionate, and well-rounded individuals in a safe and supportive community.

Focus on Early Childhood Development

We believe in fostering a love of learning from the very start. Our curriculum is designed to encourage curiosity, critical thinking, and creativity in young learners. With a strong emphasis on the developmental milestones of early childhood, we provide a rich, nurturing environment that supports both academic and personal growth.

Experienced and Caring Educators

Our dedicated teachers are not only highly qualified, but they also share a deep passion for working with young children. They take the time to understand each child’s individual needs and learning style, ensuring that every child receives the personalized attention and support they deserve.

A Safe and Stimulating Environment

Safety is our top priority. Our program is equipped with secure, age-appropriate facilities, and we maintain a low teacher-to-child ratio to ensure your child’s safety and well-being at all times. Beyond safety, we provide a vibrant and stimulating environment that encourages exploration, play, and social interaction.

Emphasis on Social and Emotional Skills

We recognize that early childhood is a critical time for developing social and emotional intelligence. At Excelsior Child Care, we integrate social skills, conflict resolution, and emotional awareness into daily activities. Your child will learn how to express themselves, make friends, and navigate their emotions in a supportive setting.

Individualized Learning Approach

We understand that each child learns differently. Our learner-focused approach tailors lessons to suit the individual needs, strengths, and interests of each child, ensuring that they stay engaged and excited about their learning journey.

Strong Parent Partnership

We believe in the power of collaboration between parents and teachers. We keep you informed through regular communication, updates, and parent-teacher conferences. We also host family events and activities to help strengthen the connection between home and school.

Holistic Education

Our curriculum goes beyond traditional academics to include art, music, field trips, physical education, and outdoor play, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience. These activities help to foster creativity, teamwork, and healthy habits that children will carry with them throughout their lives.

Preparation for Kindergarten and Beyond

Our preschool program is designed to prepare children for a seamless transition to kindergarten. We lay a strong foundation in literacy, numeracy, problem-solving, and social skills to help them succeed in their future educational endeavors.

Flexible Programs to Meet Your Family’s Needs

We offer flexible scheduling options to fit the unique needs of your family. Whether you need part-time or full-time care, we strive to provide a program that supports both your child's development and your family’s schedule.

Community and Values

At ECC, we are more than just a school — we are a community. Our values of respect, kindness, curiosity, and inclusion are reflected in everything we do. We aim to create a nurturing space where your child feels valued, supported, and excited to learn.

Does ECC consider students with different types of learning needs?

ECC admits students with a range of academic abilities, from those who are gifted to those who have not yet reached their full potential. Children with identified abilities under a current IEP or early learner plan may be considered for admission, depending on the school’s available resources to meet their specific needs.

What is the school calendar? What are the hours of operation?

The school year typically begins the first week of September, after Labor Day. We do not follow NYC DOE'S schedule in its entirety; however, school is not in session on federal holidays. A schedule is provided to current families during orientation. 

Hours of operation:

7:30 AM - 4:00 PM for Pre-K - K students

7:30 AM - 6:00 PM for infant to 3 years 

Afterschool hours:

4:00 PM - 6:00 PM ECC students

12:30 PM - 6:00 PM all others (Provider location)

No. Excelsior Child Care is a private, independent, tuition-based program. We are not associated with the free UPK program.

How much is tuition?

Tuition is based on the child's age and is provided with the registration documents. It does not cover uniforms, supplies, field trips, fundraising, or after-school fees.

How are tuition dues paid?

Upon registering, tuition is due one month in advance, along with payment for the current month. Tuition is due on the 1st of each month thereafter. If payment is not received by the 4th of the month, the Director reserves the right to remove the child from the program until the payment is made in full. Payments can be made by credit card through the MyProcare website or via Zelle. Cash is not accepted. Refunds are not provided. Tuition is required to be paid even if the child is sick, on vacation, or if the school is closed.

Is there a siblings discount?

Yes. Children living in the same household or sharing at least one parent are eligible for a 10% sibling discount. Proof of relationship (e.g., birth certificate) is required.

Is there a bus program?

Parents/guardians are responsible for providing transportation to and from school each day for their child.

What if my child does not attend a field trip?

Field trips are an integral part of our ‘Beyond the Walls‘ curriculum. If a child will not be attending a field trip, there will be no school for them on that day.

Are there cameras for me to watch my child while at school?

Our school's cameras are installed for safety and security purposes. They are not intended for remote viewing by families. These cameras help us ensure a safe and secure environment for all students and staff.

What is the discipline policy for misbehavior?

At ECC, we believe in positive discipline that encourages children to understand the consequences of their actions. If a child misbehaves, staff members use a range of age appropriate approaches including redirection and positive reinforcement when necessary. Our goal is to guide children toward making better choices and to foster a respectful and supportive environment. If behavior issues persist, parents will be involved in creating a plan to address and resolve the situation. Corporal punishment is strictly prohibited in our programs.

What could result in my child being removed from the program?

If a child causes serious bodily injury to another child or staff member, it may result in immediate dismissal from the program. A child may also be removed from the program for repeated behavioral issues that cannot be resolved through positive discipline, failure to meet tuition payment deadlines, excessive absenteeism, failure to follow school rules, or if the child’s needs cannot be adequately met within the school’s resources. We will work closely with parents to address concerns before taking this step.