Early Childhood

Our smallest learners ask big questions as they begin building a foundation of genuine academic curiosity.
At Portledge, we believe in the gift of childhood! Guided by the Reggio Emilia philosophy of Early Childhood Education, we respect children’s right to play, discover, collaborate, construct, and experience joyful learning. We are inspired by the spark in their eyes, huge smiles, warm embraces, exuberant moments, and the curiosity children bring to school daily. Our Early Childhood program is designed around children, and our units of study are influenced by the students’ interests, questions, and passions. The classroom and specials teachers collaborate to offer children various deep, meaningful learning opportunities. We understand that children thrive when they feel safe, loved, understand the routine and structure of the day, and when they are given space to explore, experiment, and wonder.

List of 4 frequently asked questions.

  • A Nurturing Environment

    From Pre-Nursery through Prekindergarten, Portledge provides a warm, small-class setting where dedicated teachers cultivate meaningful connections with every young learner. Through personalized care and gentle encouragement, children build self-awareness, social-emotional confidence, and a sense of belonging in their very first school experience.

  • Play-Based, Inquiry-Led Foundations

    Our early learning curriculum blends structured foundational instruction with joyful, hands-on exploration. Through active discovery, storytelling, sensorimotor activities, and guided play, young students naturally develop critical thinking, language, early math literacy, and fine motor skills in an engaging environment.

  • Rooted in Kindness, Respect, and Community

    Character building starts from day one. Guided by the Portledge Pillars—Kindness, Honor, Purpose, and Respect—teachers weave lessons of sharing, empathy, cooperation, and gratitude into daily routines, helping young children learn how to navigate friendships and contribute positively to their classroom community.

  • Enriched Arts, Physical Movement, and Exploration

    Even our youngest students benefit from a well-rounded experience. Beginning in Early Childhood, children participate in dynamic specialist programs—including music, visual arts, physical movement, and wellness education—designed to spur imagination, healthy physical habits, and a well-balanced mindset.

Early Childhood Hours

Pre-Nursery:
8:45 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. 
2, 3, and 5 days available
Nursery:
8:45 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Extended Day Options for Nursery:
12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. (Lunch Bunch)
12:00 p.m. to 3:15 p.m.
Pre-Kindergarten:
8:45 a.m. to 3:15 p.m.
Portledge is pleased to be expanding its Early Childhood offerings!

Programming will now begin for our youngest children at 18 months of age with our First Steps at Portledge program.

Details:
A separation class designed for children aged 18 months through 2 years to begin their educational journey in a warm, creative, and joyful environment. This is a play-based class where children will learn to socialize, increase their independence, become acclimated to a school routine, and explore new learning opportunities. The class will meet twice a week on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8:45 a.m. to 11:45 a.m.

Expanded Pre-Nursery Offering
We are also expanding our pre-nursery offerings. Pre-Nursery (from 2 years of age) will continue to meet 3 mornings per week, but we will now offer the option to attend 5 mornings per week.

For more information and to begin the admissions process, please reach out to Melissa Worth (516) 750-3104 or Leigh DeMaria (516) 750- 3224.

Contacts

List of 3 members.

  • Photo of Leigh DeMaria

    Leigh DeMaria 

    Portledge School
    Director of Early Childhood / Lower School Dean of Students
    (516) 750-3224
  • Photo of Lauren Domaradzki

    Lauren Domaradzki 

    Portledge School
    Lower School Division Head
    (516) 750-3195
  • Photo of Franziska Cohen

    Franziska Cohen 

    Portledge School
    Lower School Front Office Administrator / Admissions Data Assistant
    (516) 750-3151

Quicklinks

Portledge Early Childhood

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*NOTICE OF NONDISCRIMINATORY POLICY AS TO STUDENTS
Portledge School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law. This policy applies to, but is not limited to, educational policies, admission, financial aid, hiring and employment practices, use of school facilities, athletics, and other school-administered programs.
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