Toddler Program
Toddlers are in one of the most exciting stages of development — curious about everything, learning rapidly, and beginning to understand their place in the world. Our toddler program meets that energy with warmth, structure, and the kind of hands-on, play-based environment where independence and confidence naturally grow.
Every classroom exceeds required staffing ratios, because we believe children thrive when they're truly seen and supported.


Our Approach
How We Approach Toddler Care.
In our Toddler Program, children move through two classrooms as they grow. Our youngest toddlers (12-18 months) join the Ducklings classroom, while older toddlers (18-24 months) move up to the Hummingbirds. Each classroom is designed specifically for that developmental stage, same warmth, same philosophy, evolving complexity as your child grows.
The Montessori approach is perfectly suited for toddlers who want to do everything "by myself." Our classrooms are designed at their level, child-sized furniture, low open shelves, and accessible materials that invite independence, choice, and the kind of confident exploration that defines this age.

What to Expect
A Day in Our Toddler Classroom
This sample schedule reflects our Hummingbirds classroom (18-24 months). Our Ducklings schedule (12-18 months) follows a similar structure with age-appropriate enrichment. Both schedules follow each child's individual needs throughout the day.

Specialist-Led Enrichment
A Week in the Hummingbirds Classroom.
Every week, our Hummingbirds toddlers enjoy specialist-led enrichment classes designed specifically for their age and developmental stage. All included in tuition.
Monday
Sign Language & Music
Tuesday
Cooking Class
Wednesday
Abacus Math & Chess
Thursday
Spanish Language
Friday
Soccer
Monthly
Puppetsburg puppet show and Music with Timbalooloo
Our Ducklings classroom (12-18 months) participates in enrichment on Monday (Sign Language & Music), Tuesday (Cooking), and Thursday (Spanish), with additional enrichment experiences throughout the month.
What's Included
Everything Your Child Needs, All Included.
- Practical life activities that build independence and confidence
- Language-rich experiences through storytelling, songs, and conversation
- Daily outdoor play and exploration
- Art, music, and sensory discovery
- Three nutritious meals daily — breakfast, lunch, and afternoon snack
- Specialist-led enrichment classes including Sign Language & Music, Cooking, Abacus Math, Spanish, and Soccer — woven into every week

Growth & Development
Key Development Areas
Language Explosion
We support the vocabulary explosion typical of this age through constant conversation, songs, and rich language exposure.
Gross Motor Skills
Climbing, running, jumping, and balancing activities build coordination and confidence.
Fine Motor Skills
Activities like spooning, pouring, and threading develop hand strength and coordination.
Social Development
Parallel play gradually transitions to interactive play as children learn to share and take turns.
What Parents Say
What Brooklyn Families Say About Our Toddler Program.
“We couldn't be happier with our decision to send our sons to Kinderprep. It felt daunting to find the right childcare, but the staff and teachers at Kinderprep are so kind, thoughtful and loving to our boys. Their infants room teacher Ms Madlena is the sweetest, she genuinely cares for and loves our boys, and they light up at drop off when they see her. She has been a huge reason why we feel so confident and happy with our boys being at daycare from a young(er) age, and how much they have thrived in the daycare setting. We are moving up to the toddler class, and the new teachers have been absolutely wonderful making sure our boys are happy and comfortable - as a result, the transition has been a breeze, including the move to 1 nap a day. The daycare itself is run impeccably by Victoria and Kamilia, the Directors, who oversee everything in a organized manner and are very responsive. We couldn't recommend Kinderprep more!”
Nicole V.
Williamsburg Location
“We couldn't be happier with our decision to send our sons to Kinderprep. It felt daunting to find the right childcare, but the staff and teachers at Kinderprep are so kind, thoughtful and loving to our boys. Their infants room teacher Ms Madlena is the sweetest, she genuinely cares for and loves our boys, and they light up at drop off when they see her. She has been a huge reason why we feel so confident and happy with our boys being at daycare from a young(er) age, and how much they have thrived in the daycare setting. We are moving up to the toddler class, and the new teachers have been absolutely wonderful making sure our boys are happy and comfortable - as a result, the transition has been a breeze, including the move to 1 nap a day. The daycare itself is run impeccably by Victoria and Kamilia, the Directors, who oversee everything in a organized manner and are very responsive. We couldn't recommend Kinderprep more!”
Nicole V.
Williamsburg Location
“We have been part of the Kinder Prep family since our son was just 4 months old, and we could not be more grateful for the exceptional care he has received. From the very beginning, he has been nurtured and adored by all of his teachers, who have encouraged him to grow into a happy and confident little boy. He has also made wonderful friendships along the way, which has been lovely to watch. Kinder Prep truly goes above and beyond, not only with their warmth and attention, but also with their curriculum. From music classes and puppet shows to soccer lessons, every day is filled with opportunities to learn, grow, and have fun. We feel so lucky to have found Kinder Prep and know our son is in the very best hands.”
Lisa
Williamsburg Location
Our Classrooms
A Space Designed for Busy Little Explorers.
Our toddler classrooms are built at a child's scale — low wooden shelves, child-sized tables and chairs, and soft, inviting rugs that define cozy areas for circle time, play, and discovery. Every material is within reach, encouraging the independence and "I can do it myself" confidence that defines this age.



Our Educators
The Educators Behind Our Toddler Program
Every child deserves experienced, nurturing teachers who truly know them, care for them, and want to see them thrive. Meet ours.


Karen Correa
Lead Teacher, Toddler
Hi, I'm Karen, and I'm truly excited to be a part of the Kinder Prep family! With a Master's degree in Early Childhood Education, I've dedicated over 18 years -and counting- to the field of early childhood education. During that time, I've had the privilege of supporting young learners through some of their most formative years. I believe that childhood should be filled with meaningful, joyful, and developmentally rich experiences-and I strive every day to make those moments count for every child in my care. I'm passionate about fostering curiosity, confidence, and compassion in each of my students. Whether we're exploring the alphabet, experimenting with colors, or working through social-emotional milestones, I aim to create a space where children feel seen, safe, and celebrated. I also believe that life is what we make it-so why not make it fun? A sense of joy, wonder, and humor is at the heart of everything I do, both in and out of the classroom. I'm looking forward to growing alongside this amazing team and helping shape the bright futures of the Kinder Prep community!

Nari Zharzholadze
Head Teacher, Toddler
Hi, my name is Nari! I am thrilled to be a part of the Kinder Prep team! I was born and raised in Georgia (Europe) and have a degree in Linguistics and Education. My true passion is teaching young children. I have over five years of experience as a teacher, working in daycares in Germany and the U.S., as well as in an Au Pair program in Austria. My goal is to create a warm, engaging, and nurturing environment where children feel safe, happy, and excited to learn. I look forward to being part of your child's early learning journey.

Juliana Alarcon
Lead Teacher, Toddler
My name is Juliana, and I am so excited to introduce myself as the new teacher in your child's classroom. I'm originally from Colombia and am 25 years old. I love to bring my culture and language to the classroom and engage children in learning Spanish. I bring over 5 years of experience working with young children and have a bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education. Previously, I worked at Kinder Prep Brooklyn Heights for 2 years teaching children ages 1-4 years. I love biking and hiking and enjoy bringing my active nature to the classroom. In my spare time, I also enjoy reading, being outdoors, and watching series. I live close by and feel that being a part of Kinder Prep Williamsburg is meant to be! I am a loving, patient, charismatic, and creative person. My goal is to promote a warm, inclusive environment where your child feels safe, supported, and excited to learn. I look forward to building strong connections with each child and family as we share this special stage together, filled with care, growth, and lots of fun!

Lorena Pena Cortes
Assistant Teacher, Toddler
Hi, I'm Ms. Lorena, and I'm so excited to join the Williamsburg team as a Co Teacher! With hands-on experience working with young children, I've developed a deep passion for supporting their growth in safe, creative, and nurturing environments. I truly enjoy being in the classroom, where I bring patience, empathy, and a playful spirit to each day. I love engaging in activities that spark children's imagination and support their social and emotional development. Whether I'm helping with circle time, exploring art and sensory materials, or encouraging group play, I aim to make every child feel seen, supported, and included. Creating a positive, welcoming space where children can thrive is something I care deeply about, and I'm excited to collaborate with the Williamsburg team to help our little learners grow and shine together!

Salome Kilanova
Head Teacher, Toddler
Hi, I'm Salome, and I am thrilled to be joining the ducklings classroom! I hold a Master's degree in Education Administration and previously worked at a private daycare, where I gained valuable experience supporting children and families in a nurturing environment. I truly love working with children and feel that my mission is to help create a space where each child feels safe, valued, and excited to learn. I enjoy building strong connections with children and supporting their development through care, patience, and play-based learning. I'm very excited to be part of your child's day and look forward to getting to know you and your family!

Yuwah Devi
Assistant Teacher, Toddler
My name is Yuwah, and I'm very excited to be joining the Kinder Prep community as a new toddler teacher! I have over six years of experience working with children of different ages, which has helped me understand how each stage of development is unique and important. Over time, I discovered that working with toddlers is especially meaningful to me. I love this age because it is a period of incredible growth—children are learning to communicate, explore their independence, and make sense of the world around them. It's so rewarding to support them as they build confidence, curiosity, and social skills every day. I'm passionate about creating a warm, safe, and engaging environment where each child feels supported and encouraged to learn through play and discovery. I am truly excited to join Kinder Prep and to get to know you and your children!
Frequently Asked Questions
When do you start toilet training?
We follow each child's readiness cues, typically starting gentle toilet learning around 18-24 months. We partner closely with families for consistency.
How do you handle biting?
Biting is developmentally normal at this age. We use positive guidance, close supervision, and work with families to address underlying causes.
Do toddlers nap at school?
Yes, we have a rest period after lunch. Children sleep on individual cots in a quiet, dimmed environment. We follow each child's individual sleep needs.
What is the difference between the Ducklings and Hummingbirds classrooms?
Both are part of our Toddler Program, designed for children ages 1 to 2 years. The Ducklings classroom serves children 12-18 months with a focus on sensory exploration, early language, and gentle independence-building. The Hummingbirds classroom serves children 18-24 months with a fuller enrichment schedule and more structured learning activities as children are ready. Children move from Ducklings to Hummingbirds based on developmental readiness, not just age.
What is included in Kinder Prep toddler program tuition?
All private Kinder Prep programs include three nutritious meals daily, specialist-led enrichment classes, all classroom materials, a parent app with daily updates, monthly Parents' Date Nights, and seasonal celebrations. Everything is included — no hidden fees.
Have more questions?
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Other Programs
Ages 3 to 12 months
Infant Program
Our infant program provides a safe, warm environment where your baby is known, cared for, and gently supported through every milestone.
Ages 2 to 3 years
Early Preschool Program
Two and three year olds are at a magical stage of rapid growth and discovery. Our Early Preschool program nurtures that curiosity through hands-on learning, creative play, and the kind of warm, structured environment where confidence and independence naturally bloom.
Ages 3 to 4 years
Preschool Program
Our Preschool program is where children truly begin to come into their own. Three and four year olds dive deeper into Montessori-inspired learning, building real academic foundations alongside the social-emotional skills and creative confidence that define a great early childhood.
Ages 4 to 5 years
Pre-K Program
Pre-K at Kinder Prep is where curious, confident children become genuinely ready for kindergarten and everything beyond. Four and five year olds build on years of Montessori-inspired learning to develop the academic, social, and practical foundations that last a lifetime.
Ages 3 years
Universal 3-K
Universal 3-K is a free NYC DOE program available at our Brooklyn Heights center. Kinder Prep participates in the 3-K for All program, offering the same warm, Montessori-inspired environment as our private programs.
Seasonal
Summer Program
A summer of adventure, discovery, and play with weekly themes, field trips, and enrichment.
Ready to See Our Toddler Program in Action?
Book a private tour at your nearest center, meet the educators, and see the classroom firsthand.