The Best Preschools in Old Westbury, NY
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Old Westbury. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
The Portledge School Early Childhood Program
The Portledge School
Portledge School offers a distinguished early childhood program serving the Old Westbury area with a play-based, developmentally appropriate curriculum. Their early childhood division focuses on social-emotional development, literacy readiness, and hands-on learning experiences. The program features small class sizes, experienced early childhood educators, and extensive campus facilities including outdoor learning spaces. Safety protocols are comprehensive with secure campus access and trained staff. The school maintains strong parent communication and community involvement.
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The Early Learning Center at the Sid Jacobson JCC
Sid Jacobson Jewish Community Center
The Early Learning Center at Sid Jacobson JCC provides a comprehensive early childhood education program serving Old Westbury families. Their curriculum balances academic readiness with social development through project-based learning and Jewish values. Facilities include state-of-the-art classrooms, indoor gymnasium, and outdoor playgrounds. The center employs certified early childhood teachers and maintains low student-teacher ratios. Safety is prioritized with secure entry systems, comprehensive background checks, and health protocols. Parent satisfaction is high with numerous enrichment opportunities and family programming.
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The Green Vale School Early Childhood Division
The Green Vale School
Green Vale School's Early Childhood Division serves Old Westbury with an exceptional reputation for academic excellence and whole-child development. Their program emphasizes literacy development, mathematical thinking, and social skills through a balanced approach of structured learning and creative exploration. The campus features dedicated early childhood buildings, age-appropriate playgrounds, and specialized learning spaces. Teacher qualifications are outstanding with most holding advanced degrees in early childhood education. The school maintains rigorous safety standards and offers extensive parent education resources and community events.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Old Westbury, NY:
What is the average cost of preschool in Old Westbury, NY, and are there any financial assistance options?
Tuition for preschools in Old Westbury typically ranges from $12,000 to $25,000+ per year, reflecting the area's high cost of living and prevalence of private programs. While direct public Pre-K is limited, some neighboring districts may offer Universal Pre-K (UPK) slots to residents, and certain private schools offer need-based financial aid or sibling discounts. It's crucial to inquire directly with each school about their specific tuition structure and any available assistance programs.
How do I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in Old Westbury?
All licensed preschools in New York State, including those in Old Westbury, must be registered with the Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS). You can check a program's compliance history and license status on the OCFS website. Additionally, many local preschools pursue accreditation from organizations like the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), which signifies a higher standard of quality beyond state minimums.
What are the typical enrollment timelines and waitlist situations for Old Westbury preschools?
Enrollment for the fall term often begins as early as the preceding January, with many popular programs having application deadlines by March. Due to high demand, it's common for well-regarded preschools in the Old Westbury area to have waitlists. We recommend starting your research and scheduling tours at least a year in advance to understand each school's specific timeline and improve your chances of securing a spot.
What types of preschool programs are most common in Old Westbury?
Old Westbury offers a mix of private, faith-based, and university-affiliated preschool programs, often with a focus on play-based, Montessori, or Reggio Emilia-inspired curricula. Given the village's semi-rural setting, many schools emphasize outdoor learning and nature exploration. There are also specialized programs affiliated with local private K-12 schools, offering a seamless educational pathway.
Are there any unique considerations for preschool safety and logistics in Old Westbury?
Given Old Westbury's location on the North Shore of Long Island, traffic on routes like Northern Boulevard (NY-25A) can impact drop-off and pick-up times, so evaluating a school's carpool procedure is important. Safety protocols are stringent, but parents should also inquire about outdoor play area security and the school's policies for inclement weather, as many prioritize outdoor time. Proximity to major roads and the campus security of university-affiliated programs are additional local factors to consider.
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