Celebrating 31 Years of Excellence
Our Mission
For over 40 years, Building Blocks Developmental Preschool has been dedicated to enhancing the development of all children ages birth through age five. Our mission is to provide a nurturing and stimulating environment that fosters the growth and learning of each child. We believe that every child is unique and deserves to be treated with respect, compassion, and understanding.
Our Philosophy
At Building Blocks, we believe that learning is a lifelong process that begins from a young age. Our philosophy is based on the understanding that children learn best when they are engaged, motivated, and have a sense of control. We strive to create an environment that is rich in opportunities for exploration, creativity, and social interaction.
Our Services
We offer a range of services designed to meet the diverse needs of our students. Our services include:
- Mommy & Me: A parent-child group for infants to 18 months, focused on bonding and fundamental social skills.
- Toddler Separation Class: A class designed for toddlers who are transitioning from infancy to preschool, focusing on independence, social skills, and emotional regulation.
- Autism Program: A specialized program designed for children with autism spectrum disorder, focusing on social, emotional, and behavioral development.
- Integrated Preschool & Nursery School Classes: Classes designed for children aged 2 to 5 years, focusing on cognitive, social, and emotional development.
- Special Education Preschool Classes: Classes designed for children with special needs, focusing on individualized learning and support.
- Childcare Options: After-school and summer programs providing extended-day care and enrichment activities.
- SEIT & Related Services: Specialized services including speech therapy, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and family training.
- Diagnostic & Evaluation Services: Comprehensive evaluations and assessments for children with special needs.
- Developmental Milestones: Program focused on helping children reach developmental milestones, including language, social, and motor skills.
Our Curriculum
Our curriculum is designed to align with New York State Department of Education Learning Standards and is enhanced by physical education, music programs, and computer literacy activities. Our curriculum is structured to promote cognitive, social, and emotional development, with activities such as:
- Play-based learning: Encouraging exploration, creativity, and problem-solving.
- Project-based learning: Fostering critical thinking, communication, and collaboration.
- Therapeutic activities: Building skills in areas such as social skills, emotional regulation, and sensory integration.
Our Team
Our team of experienced educators, therapists, and support staff are dedicated to providing a high-quality educational experience for our students. Our staff undergo extensive training and professional development to ensure that we are equipped to support the diverse needs of our student population.
Our Facilities
Our state-of-the-art facilities are designed to provide a safe, stimulating, and accessible environment for our students. Our classrooms are equipped with the latest technology and educational resources, and our outdoor play areas and playgrounds provide ample opportunities for physical activity and exploration.
Our Commitment
At Building Blocks, we are committed to providing a comprehensive and inclusive educational program that supports the unique needs of each child. We are dedicated to fostering a love of learning, teamwork, and a sense of community among our students, families, and staff.
School Culture and Staff
Reviewers consistently praised Building Blocks School for its fantastic culture, dedicated staff, and welcoming environment. The school's faculty was described as caring, loving, and supportive, with a genuine interest in the well-being and education of each child. Reviewers credited the staff with providing a sense of safety and security, which allowed children to thrive and feel comfortable.
Educational Experience
Building Blocks School offers a well-rounded educational experience, with a focus on age-appropriate learning and development. Reviewers highlighted the school's excellent preschool programs, which provide a solid foundation for future academic success. The school's curriculum was praised for being engaging, enjoyable, and tailored to meet the unique needs of each child.
Support for Special Needs
Reviewers with children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) praised Building Blocks School for its expertise and support in helping their children thrive. The school's staff was described as knowledgeable, understanding, and committed to providing individualized services, including speech therapy, occupational therapy, and educational accommodations.
Personal Touch and Communication
Reviewers praised the school's administrative staff for their responsiveness, willingness to listen, and ability to provide guidance and support. Parents reported feeling comfortable and confident in the school's ability to meet their child's needs, thanks to the staff's transparency and communication.
One Negative Experience
However, one reviewer described a negative experience with the school, citing a teacher's decision to mainstream a high-functioning ASD child without properly accommodating her needs. The reviewer expressed disappointment and frustration with the school's approach, suggesting that it prioritized pleasing school districts over the needs of individual children.