THE CHILDREN'S PLAYHOUSE ~ "a green preschool" PHILOSOPHY      The Children’s Playhouse, established in 1984, was developed to provide an atmosphere of emotional security and intellectual challenge. Young children are like sponges, soaking up more information faster than at any other time of life. The neurological basis for all feeling and learning is established during the child’s first four years. During this time we have a unique opportunity to create the foundation for all future learning. The most important element to a solid foundation is high self-esteem. Children who feel good about themselves can learn anything.       At The Playhouse we value each child’s unique contribution. An abundant variety of opportunities are provided for creative play and for mental and physical challenges which lead to success and growth.       Children are acknowledged for such traits as generosity, kindness, patience, honesty, cheerfulness, empathy, curiosity and creativity. Full respect is given to each child.       Each session consists of approximately 12 children and 3 well-trained, loving teachers. The ages of children range from 18 months to 4 years, (to age 5 in the Summer) This mixed age setting provides opportunities for all the children to learn, mature and appreciate each other.       We are a "green preschool", following environmentally friendly practices in maintaining and implementing our program.   DAILY ACTIVITIES Circle Time,  Free Play, Art, Music and Movement, Story Time, Creative Relaxation, Outdoor Play (weather permitting).  In addition, children enjoy nature walks, meditation, science, puppetry, poetry, cooking and drama. Children are introduced to the phonetic basis of reading through our Organic Approach to Reading(c), program developed by our Director.  Children become familiar with composers of classical music.  Healthy homemade meals are enjoyed each day.  Nutritious snacks are also served.  The food we serve is nitrate-free with no HFCS. Many of our fruits and vegetables are organic and all of our milk is organic.   SESSIONS *Half Days: 9:00-12:00 PM Lunch Included [for young twos; only offered for 5 days] *Full Days: 9:00-3:00 PM or *Extended Days: 8:00-5:30 PM [7:30AM option available]        2 Days Tuesday/Thursday;   3 Days Monday/Wednesday/Friday  or 5 days Our weekly rates are based on the session and number of days per week, starting at $200/week. Enrollment Fee [non-refundable]: $250  Discounts: 5% for Second Child  Ask about our Financial Assistance Program if needed. Qualified parents may apply to the Department of Social Services  for tuition assistance: 914-995-6521   SPECIAL EVENTS  A SPRING FUN FAIR is held each year when all the children gather with their families at The Playhouse for a memorable experience that includes many activities for the children to enjoy.   Our HOLIDAY SING-ALONG and MOVING-UP DAY are annual events.  MOVING-UP-DAY is celebrated each June.  All children receive a HAPPY ROAD AWARD and children that have mastered beginning reading skills receive a BEGINNING READER AWARD.   Licensed by the NYS Office of Family and Children's Services