How to apply to our 3K (3-4 years old) Program in Brooklyn
3K Program Locations in NYC
We have 7 locations for our 3K (3-4 years old):
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Gravesend – 52 Quentin Road, Brooklyn, NY, 11223
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Brighton Beach – 448 Neptune Avenue, Brooklyn, NY, 11224
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Manhattan Beach – 104 West End Ave, Brooklyn, NY, 11235
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Marine Park – 4123 Avenue U, Brooklyn, NY 11234
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Bensonhurst – 1502 W 1st St, Brooklyn, NY 11204
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Ditmas Park – 631 East 18th Street, Brooklyn, NY, 11226
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Downtown Brooklyn – 345 Adams Street, Brooklyn, NY, 11201
Operation time & Conditions
Schedule
Monday – Friday
8:30 am – 2:50 pm
Nutrition
Healthy, nutritious meals are a key component of our daycare, supporting children’s wellbeing and developmental progress.
Groups
We prioritize comfort and safety by placing children in groups based on their age.
Classrooms
Our classrooms are not only equipped with age-appropriate learning materials and toys but are also meticulously maintained to ensure hygiene and safety.
By the Age of 4
As your child turns four, they are a little bundle of energy and curiosity, ready to explore the world around them in earnest. Here’s a glimpse of the delightful milestones you can expect your four-year-old to achieve after our program.
Advanced Physical Skills
Four-year-olds in our program joyfully demonstrate their ability to run, jump, and climb with even more agility. They are adept at playing group games, fostering teamwork and coordination skills.
Robust Social and Communicative Skills
You’ll notice your child confidently greeting their friends and adults, sharing their toys, and participating in group games. Their imagination in play is quite impressive, and they’ll be able to tell you about themselves, their parents, and their day at school with clarity and poise.
Mathematical and Logical Growth
Watch in awe as your child counts to 10, names the primary colors, recognizes basic geometric shapes, and begins to compare objects. Their ability to add pictures from fragments and spot differences between similar pictures signifies the development of their logical thinking.
Intellectual Progress
Your child’s knowledge base expands exponentially at this age. They will know the names and characteristics of various pets, birds, and animals. They’ll also identify different types of fruits, vegetables, and mushrooms, understand the times of the day, seasons, natural phenomena, and body parts. Don’t be surprised when they start telling you about various professions and vehicles they’ve learned about!
Speech Mastery
Prepare to be delighted by your child’s speech progression. They will be able to make up simple phrases, talk about recent events, retell a fairy tale based on illustrations, and even make attempts at changing words by case.
Burgeoning Independence
Four-year-olds begin to demonstrate growing independence, absorbing skills necessary for their future studies and development. Our nurturing educators ensure this learning process is a joyful journey, allowing your child to embrace the world around them with curiosity and confidence.
3k School Gallery
Early Childhood Learning for 3K Students
Cultivating Independence
Turning three is a significant milestone in a child’s life – they become more robust, independent, and their interests begin to take form. Our 3K (3-4 years old) caters precisely to this exciting phase. We gently guide their transition from a primarily family-centric world to becoming active little members of society.
Playful Learning
Our 3K curriculum is specifically designed to cater to the unique developmental needs of three-year-olds. The assimilation of information happens subtly and effectively through playful activities – this is a time in a child’s life when learning and fun should be synonymous.
Growing Minds
Intellectual development takes center stage in our 3K (3-4 years old). From the age of three, children begin forming a knowledge base that they learn to apply. Our preschool educators facilitate this development process by introducing a variety of topics, from animals and natural phenomena to times of day and popular professions.
Preschool for children from 3 years old
Dive into a world where discovery and growth await your child. This pivotal phase bridges family warmth with societal interaction, letting your child shine with their individuality. Our curriculum for 3-year-olds nurtures your child’s physical, social, and intellectual growth, giving families everything they look for in a quality preschool, close to their home. We:
Under the direction of our dedicated teachers, your kid sets out on an academic adventure full of energy and confidence. Join us in this vibrant chapter of exploration, growth, and fun!
How 3-K Program Works At Little Scholars
Little Scholars offers 3-K for All, a free, full-day program for eligible NYC children ages 3 to 4 who receive an official placement offer through MySchools. The program meets Monday through Friday during the school year, from September through June.
A Full 3-K School Day
The regular 3-K day runs from 8:30 AM to 2:50 PM. Children follow the Creative Curriculum, exploring literacy, math, science, art, and social-emotional learning through classroom learning centers, guided activities, and purposeful play. Each child also receives two hot meals and one snack during the regular school day.
Extended Care Before And After 3-K
Families who need a longer day can add the paid Extended Care Program. Early drop-off begins at 8:00 AM, while after-school care runs from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM and includes literacy-based learning, creative activities, and enrichment such as dance, drama, and taekwondo. Children enrolled in Extended Care also receive an additional hot meal and snack.
Daily Schedule in 3K Program
Arrivals take place between 8:00 and 8:30 am, and from 8:30 to 9:00 am, there is a happy morning session of song, dancing, and unstructured play. Breakfast helps kids get fueled for the day and is provided from 9:00 to 9:30 am. Children can participate in group conversations and learning, which is held from 9:30 to 10:00 am. From 10:30 to 11:15 AM, your child can enjoy fresh air, active play, and plenty of room to move before settling in for lunch.
Before lunch, your child takes part in themed activities or guided lessons that make learning feel like an adventure. After a rest period, there are meals and lots of unstructured play in the afternoon. Later in the day, after quiet rug time, which consists of stories or quiet group activities, the curriculum ends with structured play.
Highlighting the Core Elements of Our 3K (3-4 years old)
Welcome to the world of nurturing young minds, where we shine a light on the core elements of our enriching 3K (3-4 years old). Here, we empower our little specialists to explore, learn, and grow through a blend of structured activities and playful engagement.
Structured and Playful Learning
We understand the unique needs of 3-year-olds. Hence, we have created a balanced regime that blends structured learning and playful activities. This approach allows children to express their energy, emotions, and realize their strengths, all while having fun and developing intellectually.
Building Physical Abilities
Our program focuses on nurturing physical abilities in children. From jumping and running to climbing and playing group games, our program ensures children improve their coordination, strength, and overall physical development.
Encouraging Logical and Mathematical Development
At this tender age, children are introduced to basic logical operations and mathematical concepts. Our program makes these learning experiences fun and intuitive, helping them count, identify primary colors, recognize geometric shapes, and much more.
Igniting Intellectual Development
We facilitate the intellectual development of children by exposing them to diverse knowledge areas. We present them with pets, birds, fruits, seasons, natural phenomena, body parts, professions, and vehicles, laying the groundwork for a rich understanding of the world around them.
Preparation for Future Learning Experiences
The 3K (3-4 years old) is not just about the present; it also sets the stage for future learning. After three years, children are confidently prepared to familiarize themselves with the world, perhaps learning foreign languages, music or dive in into science.
Day-to-day activities
Our 3K curriculum seamlessly combines structured education with joyful exploration, perfectly tailored for the evolving needs of three-year-olds. Here’s what a day with us entails:
With us, education is not just learning – it’s an enthralling journey fostering a lifelong passion for knowledge.
Energizing Physical Activities
Our 3K (3-4 years old) offers a diverse array of dynamic physical activities tailored for young learners.
From balancing games and obstacle courses to rhythmic dance sessions and playful sports drills, we ensure a comprehensive approach to physical development. Each activity is designed to enhance motor skills, coordination, and strength.
Crafting Connections
Whether it’s through collaborative play, team-based games, or the simple exchange of greetings, we ensure our little scholars learn the nuances of building relationships and effective communication.
In doing so, we set the foundation for their social and emotional development.
The Playful Mathematician
We seamlessly integrate math into the everyday experiences of our young learners.
Through activities like object counting, color recognition, shape identification, and puzzle-solving, we nurture their budding logical and mathematical skills.
Our approach ensures they grasp these essential concepts in a delightful and interactive way.
Little Explorers
Every day, we ignite the inquisitiveness of our young minds.
Introducing them to a wide array of subjects, from the animal kingdom to the changing seasons, and from different professions to various modes of transportation, we foster a foundational grasp of their surroundings.
This approach ensures they embark on a perpetual journey of learning and discovery.
Expressive Little Voices
We emphasize fostering self-expression among our young learners.
With activities like storytelling, nursery rhyme recitals, and personal experience sharing, we guide our tiny scholars to discover and amplify their unique voices.
This not only bolsters their speech and language development but also instills confidence in their budding communication skills.
Get More Information about our 3K (3-4 years old) Program
Frequently Asked Questions About 3K Preschool
Is 3K appropriate for a 3-year-old?
3K can be beneficial for 3-year-olds, offering an environment that promotes emotional, social, and cognitive growth through creative activities. It allows children to explore, play, build relationships, and achieve milestones. Teachers cultivate a passion for learning and ensure personalized care. However, parents should assess their child’s readiness for preschool to ensure a smooth transition.
What signs show a 3-year-old is ready for 3-K educational program?
Look for these signs:
- Comfort with separation and managing emotions.
- Ability to form friendships.
- Independence in handling tasks.
- Effective communication of thoughts and feelings.
- Good focus during learning and play.
A child who interacts well, displays confidence, and is keen to learn is likely ready. While parents gauge readiness, it’s the educators’ role to ensure a nurturing educational journey.
How critical is 3-K Program for a 3-year-old?
3-K is significant for a 3-year-old for several reasons:
- Cognitive Development: It stimulates curiosity and encourages exploration.
- Communication Skills: Helps children express themselves effectively.
- Self-esteem: Fosters a sense of self-worth and confidence.
- Skill Development: Enhances fine motor skills, language, and basic math.
- Social Skills: Teaches cooperation, respect for others, and team dynamics.
In preschool, children also learn independence, appreciate diverse perspectives, and begin foundational learning for future educational stages.
What age is 3K for and how is it different from Pre-K?
Both 3K and UPK (also called Pre-K for All) are completely free, full-day programs funded by the New York City Department of Education — and they’re a wonderful opportunity for New York City families! Both run Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 2:50 PM on the DOE school-year calendar, and both use our Creative Curriculum. The key difference is age and developmental focus.
The 3K program is for children who turn 3 years old during the calendar year of enrollment. It’s a foundational year focused on building language skills, early numeracy, social-emotional regulation, and gross and fine motor development — all through play-based, hands-on activities. UPK is for children who turn 4 during the enrollment year. It builds on 3K with a more structured approach to early literacy, math concepts, problem-solving, and the independence children need to thrive in kindergarten.
Children who attend 3K at Little Scholars have a natural path into UPK at the same location the following year. Families apply through the NYC MySchools portal at myschools.nyc, with applications typically opening in January. We’re happy to walk you through the process!
How is your 3K curriculum designed for 3 year olds?
A 3K curriculum for three-year-olds emphasizes the development of fundamental skills in a range of subjects, including science, literacy, math, and social-emotional growth, through play-based and hands-on activities. Additionally, preschool for 3 year olds emphasizes the development of fine and gross motor skills, self-care, and language.
Can my child start 3K if they turn 3 mid-year?
Yes. NYC determines 3-K eligibility by birth year, so your child does not need to be 3 on the first day of school. They can apply for 3-K in the calendar year they turn 3, even if their birthday falls after the program begins.
Admission depends on receiving an offer through MySchools, so be sure to apply for the correct school year and select your preferred Little Scholars location.
Where is the Little Scholars 3K program available?
We’re proud to offer the NYC 3K for All program at seven Brooklyn locations, making Little Scholars one of the largest multi-site 3K providers in the borough! The program is available at Gravesend (52 Quentin Road, DOE code 21KCOW), Brighton Beach (448 Neptune Avenue, DOE code 21KCPE), Manhattan Beach (104 West End Avenue, DOE code 21KCUH), Marine Park (4123 Avenue U, DOE code 22KDSX), Bensonhurst (1502 West 1st Street, DOE code 21KDRH), Ditmas Park (631 East 18th Street, DOE code 22KDSY), and Downtown Brooklyn (345 Adams Street, DOE code KENL).
Every campus runs 3K from 8:30 AM to 2:50 PM on the NYC DOE school-year schedule, with Extended Care available until 6:00 PM and two hot meals and a snack included daily.
When applying through the NYC MySchools portal at myschools.nyc, make sure to use the correct location code for your preferred campus — each address is listed separately in the system. Applications typically open in January, with placement offers going out in the spring.
If you need help navigating the application process, we’re here for you — just reach out to us by email or give us a call!
How can parents schedule a 3K tour?
You can call (646) 759-0790, request information online, or book a tour through the Little Scholars website.