Montclare Children's School

Our son has now attended Montclare's 2s program twice and is so excited to be joining the 3s next year. We've loved our experience so much that we've already signed our little girl up for the January 2s! What sets Montclare apart is how the teachers truly meet each child where they are. Using the Sounds and Motions technique, our 3-year-old can now identify letters by their sounds. When his teachers noticed his interest in numbers, they tailored games and activities to keep challenging him. And when the class became fascinated with public transportation (hello, city kids!), the teachers transformed the classroom into the 96th Street subway station — continuing the full curriculum, but all under the umbrella of transportation. It was so special. The school itself is part of the magic too: a landmark building around the corner from the Friday farmers market, with field trips to the Central Park Zoo. It's a truly authentic New York City early childhood experience. Pair all of that with admin who genuinely greet every child and parent at drop-off and pickup, and a real partnership between families and the school, and it's no wonder we keep coming back!

My family has been at Montclare for five years now, and I have two girls who have gone through the school (with my younger one graduating in June 2026). Montclare is an excellent school for early childhood education, with a strong program and personalized attention and understanding given to every child. The school also prepares children for their next steps and is thoughtful in its approach to finding the right school for each child after life at Montclare. But more than that, Montclare is a strong community, where children, parents, caregivers, families, administration, staff and teachers create a deep sense of closeness and home, and long lasting friendships. It is a genuinely happy place where the halls are full of smiles and cheer throughout the day from all who enter through the doors! I will miss it!

My kids have skipped to school every single day since starting at Montclare and I think that says it all. But beyond the happiness, what's struck me most is what they're absorbing. They hum "Moon River" instead of "Baby Shark." They know Yayoi Kusama and Andy Warhol — not just their names, but their worlds. Montclare has shaped the way my kids understand kindness and culture. I couldn't be more grateful.