Best Preschools and Montessori Schools on Long Island

Long Island’s Top Preschools and Montessori Schools: A Guide for Parents

Selecting a preschool marks a crucial milestone in a child’s journey toward education, shaping their early experiences and setting the foundation for lifelong learning. For many families across Long Island, choosing the right preschool means finding an institution that not only provides academic instruction but also fosters social, emotional, and creative development. The preschools found throughout this vibrant region blend structured curricula with play-based learning, making the transition from home to school smooth and enriching for young learners.

In an age where early childhood education has gained considerable attention, preschools in Long Island are stepping up to offer diverse programs suited to various needs. This guide highlights some of the most reputable institutions, emphasizing their unique educational philosophies and offerings.

Buckley Country Day School

Location: 2 I. U. Willets Road, Roslyn
Phone: 516-627-1910
Website: buckleycountryday.com

Buckley Country Day School provides a holistic educational experience, welcoming children as young as 2 years old. Their Early Childhood program emphasizes play-based learning that supports overall development—social, emotional, and cognitive. With a mission to open minds through exploration, Buckley promotes a nurturing environment that instills a love for learning.

Countryside Montessori School

Location: 354 Lakeville Road, Lower Level, Great Neck
Phone: 516-466-8422
Website: cmsgn.com

Countryside Montessori School cultivates a peaceful atmosphere that emphasizes respect and environmental stewardship. Catering to children ages 18 months to 6 years, the school offers a rich curriculum that integrates traditional subjects with the arts, set in a serene environment that includes an outdoor playground and nature walks.

Friends Academy

Location: 270 Duck Pond Road, Locust Valley
Phone: 516-676-0393
Website: friendsacademy.org

With a curriculum inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach, Friends Academy fosters inquiry and engagement from an early age. Children are encouraged to explore and collaborate, developing essential skills in a supportive community rooted in Quaker values.

The Green Vale School

Location: 250 Valentine’s Lane, Old Brookville
Phone: 516-621-2420
Website: greenvaleschool.org

As the largest independent school in Long Island, The Green Vale School combines academic readiness with creative and play-based learning. Their expansive campus provides ample outdoor opportunities for exploration, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience.

The Hagedorn Little Village School

Location: 750 Hicksville Road, Seaford
Phone: 516-520-6000
Website: littlevillage.org

The Hagedorn Little Village School specializes in serving children with developmental delays and disabilities. Their tailored educational and therapeutic programs strive to maximize each child’s potential in a nurturing environment, also offering support for families.

Long Island School for the Gifted

Location: 815 Convent Rd., Syosset
Phone: 631-423-3557
Website: lisg.org

Boasting a curriculum designed for gifted students, the Long Island School for the Gifted emphasizes small class sizes and personalized instruction, addressing both intellectual and emotional needs to cultivate well-rounded individuals.

Portledge School

Location: 355 Duck Pond Road, Locust Valley
Phone: 516-750-3222
Website: portledge.org

Portledge School nurtures curiosity and confidence in young learners within a supportive setting, integrating early literacy and creative play in their curriculum while focusing on character development and community engagement.

Ready Set Grow Preschool

Location: 2200 Marcus Ave, New Hyde Park
Phone: 516-775-5545
Website: readysetgrownassau.org

Ready Set Grow Preschool is dedicated to providing a child-centered learning experience that promotes creativity and critical thinking through themed educational rooms. Their commitment to small class sizes ensures personalized attention, making it a standout option for families.

In conclusion, Long Island offers a diverse array of preschool and Montessori options tailored to meet the unique needs of families. These schools not only prepare children academically but also aim to inspire a passion for learning that lasts a lifetime. Choosing the right preschool is critical, as it serves as a gateway to a child’s academic journey and personal development.