Early Childhood Program

WELCOME TO THE EARLY CHILDHOOD PROGRAM

As the starting point for your child’s education, the Early Childhood Program at Saddle River Day School plays an important role in their development. Our dedicated teachers create a warm, stimulating environment that will inspire a lifelong love of both school and learning. A low teacher-to-student ratio ensures that your child’s first exposure to classroom learning will be made more meaningful through personal attention and individualized instruction. 

The Early Childhood Program’s developmentally appropriate curriculum lays a strong foundation for future scholastic success by fostering the social, emotional and educational growth of each child.

Emphasis is placed on collaborative learning, risk-taking, autonomy, responsibility for personal behavior and peer interactions and mastery of motor and academic skills.Our littlest learners are thoughtful, inquisitive and fearless. Educators in our Early Childhood Program nurture and encourage exploration, experimentation and curiosity. Our teachers partner with parents and caregivers to guide students with intention as they lay the groundwork for a seamless transition into the Lower School or the elementary school of their choice.

Please join us at one of our admissions events to learn more about the Early Childhood Program, or to begin the application process to become part of the Saddle River Day School community.

We look forward to welcoming you to our campus.

 

Michelle Lanks, Early Childhood Coordinator

M.A., SUNY New Paltz

Pre-K 3 Program

Our Early Childhood Program focuses on fostering an early love of learning in a warm, nurturing environment. The developmentally appropriate curriculum takes into account the social, emotional and educational growth of each child; recognizing each as a unique individual, while encouraging collaborative learning. A low student to teacher ratio ensures each child receives the personal attention he or she needs to thrive.

Students in our program spend each day engaged in meaningful experiences that build foundational academic and social skills. Everything that happens in and out of the classroom—from games that encourage emergent language skills to nature walks around the campus—is mindful of the specific needs of three year olds. As part of the Saddle River Day School community, Pre-K 3 students will participate in special area classes such as science in our lab and art in our studio, explore a new language, and play on a playground “just their size.”

  • Full Day Program
  • Modified Program (1-5 half days)
  • 2023-2024 Tuition: $23,000 ($20,000 modified)
  • Meal Plan (optional): $1025
  • Tech Fee: $750

Pre-K 4 Program

Our dynamic Pre-K class is a warm, nurturing place for your child to grow as a learner. Our balanced curriculum meets the social, emotional and academic needs of each child. On a daily basis, students are engaged in literacy and math activities. They play and build, interacting with their peers in learning centers designed to promote higher-order thinking skills, interpersonal skills, creativity and imagination. As part of the Saddle River Day School community, they are matched with Reading Buddies, participate in the Rebel Leaders program and enjoy all of the opportunities that make Saddle River Day School a unique place to learn. 

  • Full Day Program
  • Modified Program (1-5 half days)
  • 2023-2024 Tuition: $23,000 ($20,000 modified)
  • Meal Plan (optional): $1025
  • Tech Fee: $750

Kindergarten Program

The Kindergarten program at Saddle River Day School provides students with many opportunities to receive individualized attention. The focus is to build independence, respect for others and to develop a sense of responsibility within each child. Our curriculum strives to build skills in all academic and social areas, and students are encouraged to apply knowledge through activities that are connected to their interests and lives. Open communication between students, teachers and parents is key to a supportive environment where students are known and encouraged to take intellectual risks.

  • 2023-2024 Tuition: $23,000
  • Meal Plan: $1,400
  • Tech Fee: $1,000

Please contact Kris Sweeny in the Office of Admissions for additional questions about tuition and fees.  ksweeny@saddleriverday.org or (201) 327-4050 x1105.

ECP by the Numbers

1:7

TEACHER-TO-STUDENT RATIO

85%+ 

OF FACULTY HOLD ADVANCED DEGREES

1:1

READING, WRITING AND MATH WORKSHOPS

Little learners become inspired thinkers who seek the adventure of pursuing knowledge through our curricular innovations.

Explore Curriculum

Continue the enrichment and hands-on learning with classes in music, sea life and more through our after-school program.

Coaching Academy

Early Childhood
Pre-K 3 - K

Lower School
Grades 1-4

lower school

Middle School
Grades 5-8

Upper School
Grades 9-12