OUR MISSION

A woman sitting on a multicolored parachute with a group of small children, outdoors in a yard with trees and a fence in the background.

We are a family-oriented daycare. When parents leave their children at our doorstep, those children become our children, they are like family. Families feel welcome here, and we aim to provide them with as much peace of mind as this type of transition permits. We understand that choosing a daycare is a big decision, and are here to help with any questions you may have.

We live in an evolving world where things change at a fast pace. Our children should be prepared for the whirlwind and it is my mission to assist them in attaining the fundamentals needed to conquer and succeed. If they have a nurturing place to fall back on, their confidence to take on the world will blossom into something beautiful.

A group of children gathered around an adult outdoors in a grassy yard on a sunny day, with trees and a fence in the background.

OUR APPROACH

Nurture-Based and Family-Oriented Childcare

At Gardens Day Care, we understand the importance of family in a child’s development. We work closely with parents to create a nurturing environment that reflects both our care philosophy and the values of each family. We provide regular updates on each child’s progress and encourage parental involvement in the learning process through special events and regular communication.

Key Features:

  • Structured routines that provide stability and predictability for children

  • Rich learning environments that encourage exploration, creativity, and discovery

  • Strong focus on emotional intelligence, helping children understand and express

    their feelings

  • Family-centered approach, with open communication between teachers and

    parents to support each child’s growth

OUR CURRICULUM

At Garden’s Day Care, we follow The Creative Curriculum approach, a research-based method that emphasizes hands-on exploration and discovery as the foundation for learning. This child-centered approach nurtures a child’s cognitive, physical, social, and emotional development. Our classrooms are engaging environments where children can explore, experiment, and create in ways that are meaningful to them. We believe in fostering independence and critical thinking while ensuring children feel safe, loved, and supported.

Our curriculum is thoughtfully structured by age group, ensuring that each stage of development is addressed in ways that are appropriate, fun, and engaging. Through creative play, guided learning, and nurturing interactions, we help children build a foundation for future success.

A young girl with curly hair coloring a worksheet with a black dry erase marker at a wooden table, with a wooden cubby storage unit and bags in the background.

  • Focus: Secure Relationships, Sensory Exploration, and Early Communication


    For our youngest learners, the foundation of learning begins with trust and security. Infants are surrounded by nurturing caregivers who support their emotional needs while encouraging early communication and exploration. Our environment is designed to stimulate the senses through rich sensory play experiences, helping babies to connect with the world around them.

    Key Elements:

    • Building relationships through one-on-one interactions

    • Sensory activities involving textures, sounds, and movement

    • Supporting gross motor development through tummy time, crawling, and

      reaching

    • Early language stimulation through songs, stories, and simple sign language

    Sample Activities:

    • Exploring soft toys and natural materials

    • Music and movement activities for developing balance and coordination

    • Tactile play with water, sand, and other safe materials

  • Focus: Exploration, Language Development, and Social Skills


    Toddlers are naturally curious and eager to explore. Our curriculum encourages them to make discoveries in a safe, supportive environment. At this stage, we focus on developing language skills, fostering independence, and supporting social interactions. Toddlers begin to participate in structured play and simple routines that provide the foundation for cooperation and self-regulation.

    Key Elements:

    • Fostering curiosity through exploration and creative play

    • Building language and communication skills through conversations, songs, and storytelling

    • Encouraging independence with simple choices and tasks

    • Supporting social-emotional development through guided play and conflict resolution

    Sample Activities:

    • Simple construction with blocks and natural materials

    • Storytime and fingerplay songs to enhance language development

    • Group play activities that encourage sharing and cooperation

    • Outdoor play to develop gross motor skills like running, jumping, and climbing

  • Focus: School Readiness, Critical Thinking, and Emotional Intelligence


    Our preschool curriculum is designed to prepare children for kindergarten by fostering creativity, problem-solving skills, and social cooperation. We create an environment where children are free to explore their interests through project-based learning, which allows them to dive deep into topics that capture their curiosity. At the same time, we help them develop the social-emotional skills necessary for a successful transition to school.

    Key Elements:

    • Project-based learning that encourages inquiry, problem-solving, and teamwork

    • Introducing early literacy, math, and science concepts in engaging ways

    • Emotional regulation and peer collaboration through guided play and classroom routines

    • Hands-on activities that support creativity and self-expression

    Sample Activities:

    • Exploring nature through outdoor projects, gardening, and science experiments (we bring the outdoor indoor)

    • Collaborative building projects using different materials (blocks, clay, recycled items)

    • Early literacy and memory games that introduce letter recognition, phonics, and simple reading

    • Arts and crafts projects that develop fine motor skills and allow self-expression

LOCATION & SAFETY

Gardens Daycare is located in Washington Heights, NY. As a part of this community we aim to provide world class daycare for our neighborhood and beyond. We are conveniently located near mass transit as well as the George Washington Bridge. There is a wonderful, community-led playground one block from our building. You will find that many of our parents spend time together there after daycare with their children. 

Our facilities are located in a building with heavy, secure doors and a modern entrance system where visitors dial for access and entry. We have fire extinguishers throughout the center and practice drills so that we are prepared for any emergencies. The entire staff is CPR certified in both pediatric and adult cardiac assistance. Our certifications are renewed every two years.