Early Childhood

Welcome to 3K, PreK and Kindergarten at 196WBMS! In early childhood, we focus on fun, learning and social-emotional development. Our whole-child approach sets up each child for success in the elementary grades and beyond, while creating a positive, engaging introduction to school for our very youngest learners.

  • A pre-k student builds with blocks

    Pre-K likes to build towers!

  • A class of pre-k students with their hand raised in the air doing exercises.

    Pre-K movement activities!

  • A 3-K student cooking in a play kitchen.

    3-K busy in the kitchen.

Enrolling in 3K, PreK and Kindergarten

As a magnet school, we are open to 3K, Pre-K and Kindergarten enrollment for students in all five boroughs of New York City.

The 3-K, PreK and Kindergarten applications are typically due in April each year for the following September. During the application period, families can apply online with MySchools or by phone at 718-935-2009. Visit the NYCDOE 3K Information Page, NYCDOE PreK Information Page or NYCDOE Kindergarten Information Page to learn more.

PreK Curriculum

We use a play-based learning approach in our PreK program. Our youngest learners develop important pre-academic and social skills through play. Our program follows research-based best practices for early childhood learning, which means very limited technology and plenty of active learning. Children take a nap each day. They also have outdoor recess in all but the worst weather, so make sure they come ready to play outside! During each day, children rotate between our play-based centers: 

  • Dramatic/Pretend Play
  • Early Literacy 
  • Art
  • Music 
  • Blocks/Building 

Kindergarten Curriculum

In Kindergarten, children follow a more rigorous academic curriculum to lay a foundation for academic success. Our program is aligned with the Next Generation Standards for Early Learning. Students work on foundational skills for literacy (reading) and numeracy (math). They are exposed to science and social studies concepts through stories and activities. We also work on social and emotional skills to support children as they transition to a more formal school environment. Of course, children have plenty of time to play, too! Children have recess daily and engage in lots of active learning opportunities throughout the day. 

  • English Language Arts: Into Reading (HMH)
  • Math: Envision 2.0