# DISCOVERY VILLAGE > A Unique, Quality Childcare Center and Preschool --- ## Posts - [What to Look for in an Infant Daycare Center Before Your Baby Turns 6 Months](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/what-to-look-for-in-an-infant-daycare-center-before-your-baby-turns-6-months/): The search for an infant daycare center moves faster than most parents expect. Between feeding schedules and sleepless nights, it... - [What the Daily Rhythm of Full Time Daycare Does for Young Children](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/what-the-daily-rhythm-of-full-time-daycare-does-for-young-children/): Most parents worry when they first consider full time daycare. Will my child be okay? Will they struggle without me?... - [The Difference Between Infant Childcare and General Daycare – And Why It Matters](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/the-difference-between-infant-childcare-and-general-daycare-and-why-it-matters/): Not all early childhood programs are built the same way. When families search for care for a baby under twelve... - [How an Early Preschool Program Prepares Children for Kindergarten](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-an-early-preschool-program-prepares-children-for-kindergarten/): Many parents start thinking about kindergarten early. A child turns three or four, and the question arrives. Are they ready?... - [How an Early Preschool Program Introduces Children to Multi-Step Instructions](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-an-early-preschool-program-introduces-children-to-multi-step-instructions/): Can your child follow two or three directions in a row? If not, that is completely normal. Learning to follow... - [How a Reggio-Inspired Preschool Encourages Children to Ask Questions](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-a-reggio-inspired-preschool-encourages-children-to-ask-questions/): Have you ever noticed how many questions young children ask? Why is the sky blue? Why do leaves fall from... - [Why Clean, Organized Classrooms Matter in a Childcare Learning Center](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/why-clean-organized-classrooms-matter-in-a-childcare-learning-center/) - [What Educational Daycare in Westchester Looks Like for Working Families](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/what-educational-daycare-in-westchester-looks-like-for-working-families/): For working families, daycare is not just about coverage during work hours. It becomes part of daily life. Mornings start... - [How Infant Childcare Handles Nap Transitions Without Disrupting Babies](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-infant-childcare-handles-nap-transitions-without-disrupting-babies/): Nap time may look simple, but for babies, it is one of the most delicate parts of the day. Sleep... - [Learning Without Worksheets In Play-Based Preschool Classrooms](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/learning-without-worksheets-in-play-based-preschool-classrooms/): Many families ask us about worksheets. They want to know if children will practice letters. If they will trace numbers... - [Why Some Toddlers Need Distance Before Group Interaction](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/why-some-toddlers-need-distance-before-group-interaction/): Not every toddler walks into a room ready to join a group. Some children pause at the edge of play.... - [How Infant Daycare Centers Manage Transitions Between Sleep and Play](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-infant-daycare-centers-manage-transitions-between-sleep-and-play/): Sleep and play are the two biggest parts of an infant’s day. They may look simple from the outside, but... - [What to Expect in an Early Preschool Program for Three-Year-Olds](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/what-to-expect-in-an-early-preschool-program-for-three-year-olds/): Turning three feels big. Children are more independent than they were at two. They talk more. They ask questions. They... - [How Reggio-Inspired Preschools Build Confidence Through Exploration](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-reggio-inspired-preschools-build-confidence-through-exploration/): Confidence in young children does not appear because someone tells them they are doing a good job. It grows quietly,... - [Choosing the Best Daycare for Working Parents: What Really Matters](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/choosing-the-best-daycare-for-working-parents-what-really-matters/): For working parents, daycare becomes part of the family’s rhythm. We see it every day. Mornings begin with drop-offs, evenings... - [How an Early Preschool Program Builds Independence Through Small Tasks](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-an-early-preschool-program-builds-independence-through-small-tasks/): Independence does not appear all at once in young children. It grows quietly, through small moments that repeat each day.... - [How Early Childhood Programs Help Children Handle Waiting and Turn-Taking](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-early-childhood-programs-help-children-handle-waiting-and-turn-taking/): Waiting does not come naturally to young children. Neither does taking turns. We do not expect children to walk into... - [How Early Education Centers Build Attention and Focus Naturally](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-early-education-centers-build-attention-and-focus-naturally/): We never assume young children walk through the door knowing how to concentrate. Focus is not something a child arrives... - [What Do Babies Do at Daycare?](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/what-do-babies-do-at-daycare/): Babies don’t follow schedules the way older children do. They don’t move from activity to activity or sit down for... - [Daycare Services for Sleepy Hollow Families Built Around Daily Observation](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/daycare-services-for-sleepy-hollow-families-built-around-daily-observation/): Our daycare services for Sleepy Hollow families begin with paying attention. We watch how children walk into the room. Some... - [How Daycare Centers Help Children Learn Social Skills Naturally](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-daycare-centers-help-children-learn-social-skills-naturally/): Social skills develop slowly, through everyday moments, not lessons. In day care centers, children learn how to navigate group life... - [How a Preschool for 3-Year-Olds in Elmsford Builds Confidence](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-a-preschool-for-3-year-olds-in-elmsford-builds-confidence/): Families searching for a preschool for 3-year-olds in Elmsford are usually not looking for academics first. They want to know... - [How Childcare Centers Encourage Healthy Eating Without Pressure](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-childcare-centers-encourage-healthy-eating-without-pressure/): In a childcare setting, food isn’t just food. It’s part of the flow of the day—one of the moments where... - [Daycare or Staying Home: Understanding What Helps Your Infant Thrive](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/daycare-or-staying-home-understanding-what-helps-your-infant-thrive/): Most families reach a point where they sit at the kitchen table, look at their baby, and wonder what comes... - [What Children Learn in Preschool](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/what-children-learn-in-preschool/): Something shifts around age three. Your child who played alone happily now has endless questions. Why is the sky blue?... - [How Thoughtful Praise Helps Preschoolers Build Confidence](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-thoughtful-praise-helps-preschoolers-build-confidence/): Learn how thoughtful praise in preschool classrooms helps children feel seen, stay calm, and build confidence during everyday challenges that... - [Health, Safety, and Attachment Practices in Infant Daycare in Tarrytown ](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/health-safety-and-attachment-practices-in-infant-daycare-in-tarrytown/): When families start looking into infant daycare in Tarrytown, the questions usually come quickly. Who will hold my baby? How... - [Active Listening Activities That Help Young Children Communicate With Confidence](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/active-listening-activities-that-help-young-children-communicate-with-confidence/): Learn how listening skills grow in preschool through daily routines, warm interactions, and active listening that helps children feel heard... - [How to Create a Positive Learning Environment in Early Childhood](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-to-create-a-positive-learning-environment-in-early-childhood/): Children learn best in places where they feel steady, welcomed, and understood. A calm, warm setting helps them try new... - [How a Licensed Daycare Center Handles Daily Safety Checks](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-a-licensed-daycare-center-handles-daily-safety-checks/): Parents in Westchester sometimes imagine safety as one big system, but in a licensed daycare center, safety is built out... - [How to Prepare Your Child for Preschool](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-to-prepare-your-child-for-preschool/): Starting preschool is a big moment for young children, and most families feel it long before the first day arrives.... - [Why Parents Value Consistency in Childcare in Sleepy Hollow](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/why-parents-value-consistency-in-childcare-in-sleepy-hollow/): When parents talk with us, one thing comes up again and again. They want calm mornings. They want the same... - [When Is the Right Time for Kids to Start Preschool?](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/when-is-the-right-time-for-kids-to-start-preschool/): Parents often ask this question long before their child is even close to preschool age. Most kids start preschool around... - [Daily Routines That Support Children To Thrive in Childcare in Sleepy Hollow](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/daily-routines-that-support-children-to-thrive-in-childcare-in-sleepy-hollow/): Among the most significant keys to supporting children to thrive is a predictable, yet flexible daily schedule. At Discovery Village,... - [When Should a Child Start Reading? ](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/when-should-a-child-start-reading/): At Discovery Village Center, our childcare teachers are often asked by families in Sleepy Hollow and other areas, When should... - [Meals, Allergies & Nutrition: What to Ask Your Tarrytown Day Care Center](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/meals-allergies-nutrition-what-to-ask-your-tarrytown-day-care-center/): When parents tour day care centers in Tarrytown, they often ask about curriculum, safety, or play spaces. But one topic... - [How Play-Based Activities Help Preschoolers with Math and Literacy](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-play-based-activities-help-preschoolers-with-math-and-literacy/): When parents think of math and literacy, they often picture worksheets or flashcards. But in early childhood, learning doesn’t begin... - [What a Preschool Day Looks Like for Children in Elmsford](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/what-a-preschool-day-looks-like-for-children-in-elmsford/): When parents ask what a preschool day looks like, we smile. It’s busy, sometimes loud, and always full of the... - [Benefits of Project-Based Play in Daycare Learning Center in Westchester](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/benefits-of-project-based-play-in-daycare-learning-center-in-westchester/): In a busy classroom, mornings often begin quietly. Children arrive, find their favorite corner, and start to explore. A few... - [Why Families Choose Baby Daycare in Irvington Over Home Care](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/why-families-choose-baby-daycare-in-irvington-over-home-care/): Parents in Irvington often go back and forth on the same question: is it better to keep a baby at... - [How Play-Based Preschool in Sleepy Hollow Helps Children Learn and Thrive](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-play-based-preschool-in-sleepy-hollow-helps-children-learn-and-thrive/): Parents in Sleepy Hollow often want to know what we mean when we say “play-based preschool. ” On the surface,... - [How Sleep and Feeding Are Managed at an Infant Daycare in Tarrytown](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-sleep-and-feeding-are-managed-at-an-infant-daycare-in-tarrytown/): Parents often tell us that sleep and feeding are their biggest concerns when considering infant daycare in Tarrytown. It makes... - [What Is a Play-Based Preschool and Why Do Parents in Sleepy Hollow Choose It?](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/what-is-a-play-based-preschool-and-why-do-parents-in-sleepy-hollow-choose-it/): Parents in Sleepy Hollow often ask us, “What exactly is a play-based preschool? ” The phrase sounds simple, but the... - [Difference between Licensed Home Daycare Services and Professional Childcare Centers](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/difference-between-licensed-home-daycare-services-and-professional-childcare-centers/): Choosing the childcare program that works best for your family can be overwhelming. You want nurturing care, opportunities for social-emotional... - [How Daycare Sparks a Love for Science, Arts, and Culture Early On](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-daycare-sparks-a-love-for-science-arts-and-culture-early-on/): Have you watched three-year-old’s eyes light up when they see a butterfly? Or see their excitement when mixing colors creates... - [What Parents Can Do at Home to Support Preschool Learning in Irvington, NY](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/what-parents-can-do-at-home-to-support-preschool-learning-in-irvington-ny/): Parents in Irvington, NY often ask us what they can do at home to support preschool learning. It’s a question... - [Affordable Daycare vs. In-Home Care in Tarrytown, NY: Which Works Best?](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/affordable-daycare-vs-in-home-care-in-tarrytown-ny-which-works-best/): When families begin childcare with us in Tarrytown, one of the first questions we hear is, “Should we choose affordable... - [Importance of a Licensed Daycare Center for Families in Elmsford, NY ](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/importance-of-a-licensed-daycare-center-for-families-in-elmsford-ny/): Is it important to seek a licensed daycare for your child? The answer is ‘yes’. Since young children are still... - [How to Choose the Best Toddler Program for 2-Year-Olds in Westchester NY](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-to-choose-the-best-toddler-program-for-2-year-olds-in-westchester-ny/): The best toddler program in Westchester, NY or anywhere is one where your child fail-safe, loved, and excited to learn.... - [Sleepy Hollow Parents Guide: Early Childcare Centers vs. Daycares](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/sleepy-hollow-parents-guide-early-childcare-centers-vs-daycares/): What is the difference between daycare and early childhood centers? At Discovery Village Childcare Center and Preschool, we get this... - [Childcare Routines in Sleepy Hollow That Make Mornings Easier](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/childcare-routines-in-sleepy-hollow-that-make-mornings-easier/): Do mornings in your home feel like a rush? Between waking up sleepy children, making breakfast, packing bags, and getting... - [Why Children Need to Go to Childcare in Elmsford](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/why-children-need-to-go-to-childcare-in-elmsford/): Whenever new families begin childcare with us in Elmsford, one of the first questions we hear is, “Do kids really... - [How Play-Based Learning Shapes Early Growth in Childcare in Tarrytown](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-play-based-learning-shapes-early-growth-in-childcare-in-tarrytown/): Have you ever watched a child get lost in play? Maybe they are building a tall tower of blocks, cooking... - [How Nursery School in Sleepy Hollow Builds Early Social Skills](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-nursery-school-in-sleepy-hollow-builds-early-social-skills/): When children first step into nursery school, they do more than just learn letters and numbers. They also learn how... - [A Parent’s Guide to Finding the Best Daycare in Tarrytown](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/a-parents-guide-to-finding-the-best-daycare-in-tarrytown/): Parents in Tarrytown often ask, “Which daycare in Tarrytown is right for my child? ” It is not an easy... - [Starting Infant Care in Westchester? Tips to Ease Your Baby’s Separation Anxiety](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/starting-infant-care-in-westchester-tips-to-ease-your-babys-separation-anxiety/): Enrolling your baby in an infant care in Westchester can feel like a big step, for both you and your... - [How a Childcare Can Help Reduce Kids’ Screen Time ](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-a-childcare-can-help-reduce-kids-screen-time/): Screen time is something almost every parent worries about these days. Tablets, phones, and TVs seem to have a way... - [Daycare Readiness Checklist for Tarrytown Parents](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/daycare-readiness-checklist-for-tarrytown-parents/): Do you want your child to start daycare but feel nervous? Starting daycare in Tarrytown can feel like a big... - [How to Raise an Adventurous Eater](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-to-raise-and-adventurous-eater/): Do you want to raise an adventurous eater? Do you have any picky eaters in your family? We are happy... - [COVID Made Us Better!](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/early-childhood-education-during-covid/): Early Childhood Education During COVID and Beyond There are so many stories of early childhood education during COVID to celebrate.... - [COVID Protocols and Wellness: Physical and Emotional](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/covid-protocols-and-wellness/): Focus on COVID protocols and wellness has now been central in our lives for an entire year. Masks, social distancing,... - [Creativity with Infants](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/the-best-infant-daycare/): Infant Daycare to Spark Creativity and Imagination Infant daycare offers families peace of mind while they are at work. High... - [Daycare Activities To Enjoy at Home](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/daycare-activities-to-enjoy-at-home/): Daycare Activities to bring home – during quarantine and any other time Daycare activities at Discovery Village include the arts,... - [Discovery Village: World Class Daycare for Families in Sleepy Hollow, New York](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/discovery-village-world-class-daycare-for-families-in-sleepy-hollow-new-york/): Like Sleepy Hollow itself, Discovery Village, offers the care of a community-minded village with the culture and creativity of an... - [How to Choose a Daycare](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-to-choose-a-daycare/): You’ve made the decision. You, and all of your child’s grownups (parents, grandparents, and others) are unavailable, by choice or... - [A New Kind of September: Returning to Child Care in an Age of Pandemic](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/daycare-during-pandemic/): Have choices about daycare during pandemic left you with a range of emotions you can’t quite put into words? Have... - [How to Prepare Your Child for Preschool Near Elmsford, New York](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-to-prepare-your-child-for-preschool-near-elmsford-new-york/): Elmsford is a small community in New York filled with many young families. Everywhere you go, you can see loving... - [Creating Hopeful Rainbows](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/rainbow-art-ideas/): In these uncertain times, as we all try the best we can to settle into a new, uncharted normal, what... - [Character at the Core! The Too Infrequently Discussed "Secret Sauce" of Reggio-Inspired Learning](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/reggio-inspired-learning-standing-for-equity-and-justice/): What is it that distinguishes Reggio-inspired learning? - [Child Care near Elmsford, New York?](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/quality-child-care-near-elmsford-ny/): Just 24 miles northeast of Manhattan, the 1. 1-square-mile Elmsford is one of six villages in the town of Greenburgh. - [Why Daycare Learning Activities are Important to Your Child’s Development](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/why-daycare-learning-activities-is-important-to-your-childs-development/): We often hear or see in the media that children are not getting enough physical activity these days. - [Caring for Children with Food Allergies in Daycare](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/childcare-tips-how-to-keep-your-child-with-food-allergies-safe/): Kids are energetic, unpredictable and curious. Whether they are under the care of a small in-home provider, a large daycare... - [How Your Kids Can Survive the First Day of Preschool in White Plains](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-your-kids-can-survive-the-first-day-of-preschool-in-white-plains/): Time is a luxury we cannot buy. In the blink of an eye, your sweet babies grow up to be... - [Play, Imagination, and Rocket Science: Creativity in Early Childhood](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/play-imagination-and-rocket-science-creativity-in-early-childhood/): In the early years of the Apollo Project, NASA commissioned George Land, a scientist specializing in the enhancement of creative... - [How a Quality Daycare Program Can Prepare Your Kids for Kindergarten](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/quality-daycare-near-white-plains/): The early years of a child’s life are critical. Children absorb more information than we realize like sponges. They develop... - [What are the Benefits of Daycare Center in Sleepy Hollow?](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/what-are-the-benefits-of-daycare-in-sleepy-hollow/): In today’s busy life when most parents in Sleepy Hollow are professionals, quality childcare is a must. While some have... - [How to Get Your Child Ready for Preschool in Sleepy Hollow](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-to-get-your-child-ready-for-preschool-in-sleepy-hollow/): Each day is a new adventure for a young child in Sleepy Hollow. Soon enough parents will need to start... - [It's Not Small Talk: The Wonder of Weather In Early Childhood Learning](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/its-not-small-talk-the-wonder-of-weather-in-early-childhood-learning/): Noticing, wondering, sensing, and experiencing are all characteristics of the curious and the creative. They are also at the very... - [REV It UP! Relationships, Experiences, Values](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/relationships-experiences-and-values-in-early-childhood-education/): The first five years of life; a time of wonder, imagination, creativity and discovery, are marked by incredibly rapid development... - [How a Daycare Center in Tarrytown, NY Benefits Both Parents and Kids](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-a-daycare-center-in-tarrytown-ny-benefits-both-parents-and-kids/): Every experience and event during the formative years of your child’s life shape the foundation for later learning and their... - [Celebration as Self-Expression in Early Childhood Learning](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/celebration-as-self-expression-in-early-childhood-education/): Villages are places of warmth and nurturing; extensions of family. They are also places of celebrations and commemorations. Since ancient... - [How to Get Your Child Eat Healthy with a Childcare Provider in Sleepy Hollow](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-to-get-your-child-eat-healthy-with-a-childcare-provider-in-sleepy-hollow/): Kids either love or loathe veggies – there is usually no in-between. Most parents experience an uphill battle with feeding... - [The Reggio Emilia Educational Approach](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/reggio-inspired-learning-and-care/): In the days and weeks following the end of World War II, the area of Reggio Emilia in Northern Italy... - [Why Preschool Matters for Children in Tarrytown, NY](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/why-preschool-matters-for-children-in-tarrytown-ny/): Although some parents consider kindergarten as a stepping stone for their child’s education, the early years of their lives are... - [How to Choose a Childcare Center in Tarrytown, NY?](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-to-choose-a-childcare-center-in-tarrytown-ny/): With favorable geography and climate, Tarrytown is indeed one of the best places to live in New York. In addition... --- ## Pages - [Sitemap](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/sitemap/): Pages Home About Us Our Approach Programs Discovery Village Blog Contact Us About Us Welcome from our CEO and Director... - [Schedule a Tour](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/finding-a-daycare-in-westchester-ny/schedule-a-tour/) - [Careers At Discovery Village](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/early-childhood-education-jobs/): Early Childhood Jobs of Impact Early childhood education jobs are among the most meaningful positions available. As an early childhood... - [Summer at Discovery Village](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/day-camp-near-tarrytown/): Summer at Discovery Village Are you looking for a day camp near Tarrytown for your infant, toddler, or preschooler? Discovery... - [Finding The Best Daycare Near Irvington, NY](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/finding-the-best-daycare-near-irvington-ny/): Daycare Near Irvington, New York The village of Irvington, New York delights residents and visitors alike with restaurants, parks, hiking... - [Finding the Best Day Care Near Me](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/finding-the-best-daycare-near-me/): The Search for the Best Daycare Near Me Among the many great joys we experience at Discovery Village is speaking... - [World Class Daycare Near Elmsford](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/world-class-daycare-near-elmsford/): Experience The Best Daycare Near Elmsford Your children begin learning at birth. As parents, you are their first teachers. You... - [Discovery Village: Quality Day Care for Families in Sleepy Hollow, New York](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/quality-day-care-for-families-near-sleepy-hollow-new-york/): Like Sleepy Hollow itself, Discovery Village, offers the care of a community-minded village with the culture and creativity of an... - [Thank You - Newsletter](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/thank-you-newsletter/): Thank you for signing up for our newsletter! - [Thank You - Schedule a Tour](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/thank-you-schedule-a-tour/): Thank you for inquiring about scheduling a tour. We will be in touch shortly! - [Thank You - Contact Us](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/thank-you-contact-us/): Thank you for contacting us. We will be in touch with you shortly! - [Newsletters](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/newsletters/): Previous Newsletters - [Sign Up for Our Mailing List](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/sign-up-for-our-mailing-list/): Sign up for our mailing list Email* - [Discovery Village Blog](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/discovery-village-blog/): Blog Childcare Routines in Sleepy Hollow That Make Mornings Do mornings in your home feel Read More Why Children Need... - [Nutrition & Exercise](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/day-care-activities-learning-promoting-wellness/): Nutrition, exercise, and conversations about promoting physical and emotional health and well-being are central to the Discovery Village Experience. Day... - [Schedule a Tour](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/finding-a-daycare-in-westchester-ny/schedule-a-tour-5/): Discovery Village Childcare & Preschool The best way to explore the possibilities of Discovery Village for your child is to... - [Discovery Village – Unique Tarrytown Daycare QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/tarrytown-daycare-discovery-village/): What hours and days are you open? Discovery Village Tarrytown is open year round from 7 AM –6 PM. Parents... - [Schedule a Tour](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/finding-a-daycare-in-westchester-ny/schedule-a-tour-3/) - [About Us](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/a-unique-premier-daycare-in-westchester-county-ny/) - [Programs](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/programs/) - [Our Approach](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/our-approach/) - [Discovery Village Blog](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/discovery-village-blog-2/) - [Contact Us](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/finding-a-daycare-in-westchester-ny/) - [Welcome from our CEO and Director](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/welcome-to-our-premier-daycare-from-our-ceo-and-director/) - [Infant Program](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/infant-daycare-discovery-village-childcare-center-preschool/) - [Our Unique Approach](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/our-unique-approach-reggio-inspired/) - [Home](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/) - [Mission, Vision, Pillars, Core Values](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/quality-childcare-grounded-in-relationships-experiences-and-values/) - [Top 10 Reasons Parents Choose Us](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/top-10-reasons-parents-choose-discovery-village-childcare-and-preschool/) - [Toddler Program](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/best-childcare-program/) - [Testimonials](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/the-best-day-care-discovery-village/) - [Early Childhood Learning Center](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/best-early-childhood-education-program/): How a child sees the world and others is established during the significant early years. Experiencing the best early childhood... - [Preschool Program](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/programs/best-preschool-program/) - [Our Curriculum](https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/early-childhood-education-our-curriculum/): Our curriculum is central to what makes Discovery Village unique. Created onsite by our own leadership team and teachers and... --- # # Detailed Content ## Posts - Published: 2026-04-18 - Modified: 2026-04-22 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/what-to-look-for-in-an-infant-daycare-center-before-your-baby-turns-6-months/ - Categories: daycare The search for an infant daycare center moves faster than most parents expect. Between feeding schedules and sleepless nights, it is easy to put off. But finding the right place early gives families time to visit, ask questions, and decide without pressure. At Discovery Village, we know what parents are really looking for. Not a checklist – a place that feels right. Watch How Staff Interact With the Babies When you tour, pay attention to how caregivers speak to the infants. Are they talking during diaper changes? Making eye contact during feeding? Using a calm, steady voice? These small moments matter. Language development and early trust both build through consistent, responsive interaction. We train our team to treat every routine moment as an opportunity – not formally, but naturally. Routines Should Follow the Baby A quality infant daycare center builds the day around each baby. Not a center-wide schedule. We ask families what works at home, then carry those rhythms into the day. That consistency helps your baby feel safe, even in a new space. The Environment Tells You a Lot Walk into the infant room and notice how it feels. Is it calm? Clean? Free of clutter? A well-maintained space shows you something about the overall approach. We prepare our infant rooms each morning and care for them throughout the day.   Ask About the Toddler Program If you want your child to stay in one place as they grow, ask how the transition works. A strong toddler program should feel like a... --- - Published: 2026-04-13 - Modified: 2026-04-22 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/what-the-daily-rhythm-of-full-time-daycare-does-for-young-children/ - Categories: daycare Most parents worry when they first consider full time daycare. Will my child be okay? Will they struggle without me? Those questions are normal. What many parents discover, though, is that a well-run day does more for their child than they expected. Routine is not just convenient. For young children, it is how they learn to trust the world around them. Why Rhythm Matters in Baby Daycare Young children cannot read a clock. They read patterns instead. When the same things happen in the same order each day, children feel safe. That feeling of safety is what allows them to relax, explore, and learn. In baby daycare, a consistent rhythm does several things: It reduces separation anxiety over time. It signals what comes next, so children are not caught off guard. It builds an inner awareness of time and sequence. It supports better sleep, appetite, and mood. Children who know what to expect settle faster. They engage more deeply. They cry less at drop-off, not because they do not love their parents, but because they trust the place they are in. What a Full Day Actually Looks Like Morning Arrival and Settling The start of the day sets the tone. We greet each child by name. We help them put their things away and ease into the room. Especially for younger children, this transition matters. A calm, predictable arrival routine tells the child: this place is familiar, and you are safe here. Active Learning Through the Day Childcare done well... --- - Published: 2026-04-11 - Modified: 2026-04-22 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/the-difference-between-infant-childcare-and-general-daycare-and-why-it-matters/ - Categories: Childcare Not all early childhood programs are built the same way. When families search for care for a baby under twelve months, they are not looking for a smaller version of what older children receive. Infant childcare is its own category. It has a different structure, different staffing, and a different purpose. Understanding that difference helps families ask better questions. What Infants Actually Need General daycare programs serve a wide age range. The experience across those years can look similar from the outside – group activities, shared spaces, a fixed daily schedule. Infant childcare is different. Babies under twelve months are not mini toddlers. Their needs are unlike any other age group. They depend entirely on the adults around them for physical care, emotional regulation, and early experiences that shape brain development. The best infant day care settings are built around that reality. Every decision starts with what infants need, not what works for a mixed-age group. Ratios Are Not Just a Number In a preschool room, one caregiver to eight children can work well. Children that age can wait, communicate, and move independently. An infant cannot do any of that. When ratios are too high in an infant room, babies wait. That is not infant childcare. That is infant management. At Discovery Village, we keep our infant ratios small. Our caregivers are present — responding, noticing, and caring in a way that supports development. Caregiver Training Makes the Difference Not every early childhood educator is trained specifically in infant care. Working... --- - Published: 2026-04-07 - Modified: 2026-04-22 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-an-early-preschool-program-prepares-children-for-kindergarten/ - Categories: Preschool Many parents start thinking about kindergarten early. A child turns three or four, and the question arrives. Are they ready? Are we doing enough? It is a fair concern. But readiness does not come from drilling letters or rushing through milestones. It comes from something quieter. It builds through daily experience, through routine, and through learning how to be in a room with other children. That is what a well-structured early preschool program does. It prepares children for what comes next, without making that the point of every day. Readiness Is More Than Academics Kindergarten teachers often say the same thing. They want children who can listen, manage transitions. It’s important for children to be able to try something, get it wrong, and try again. Those are not academic skills. They are social and emotional ones. They develop slowly, through repetition and through relationships. In our preschool program, children practise these skills without realising it. They take turns at the table. They move between activities when the signal comes. They learn to ask for help instead of shutting down. By the time kindergarten arrives, these habits are already in place. Structure Teaches Children How to Learn A consistent daily routine does something important. It tells children what to expect. When children know what is coming next, they feel settled. And settled children are ready to engage. We build our days around that principle. There are clear beginnings and endings to each part of the day. Children know when it is time... --- - Published: 2026-04-01 - Modified: 2026-04-22 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-an-early-preschool-program-introduces-children-to-multi-step-instructions/ - Categories: Preschool Can your child follow two or three directions in a row? If not, that is completely normal. Learning to follow multi-step instructions is a skill. The proper environment, practice, and time are necessary for development. This is something we work on every single day in our early preschool program. Here is how we do it. Why multi-step instructions matter Children who arrive at kindergarten able to follow that kind of direction are more confident. They spend less time feeling lost and more time learning. Building this skill early makes a real difference. It begins with a single step at a time. We do not begin by asking children to do three things. We start with one clear, simple instruction. "Put the book in the basket. " "Throw your napkin in the garbage. " When children can do one step reliably, we add a second. "First, wash your hands, then sit down for lunch. " We use brief language. We keep the tone warm. We give children time to process. Attention span in preschoolers is still developing. Rushing or repeating instructions too quickly actually makes it harder for children to listen. We slow down on purpose. Routines do a lot of the work Preschool learning routines are one of the most powerful tools we have. When children know what comes next, they can focus on following through rather than figuring out what is happening. There is a rhythm to everyday, following a predictable pattern. Over time children begin to anticipate the... --- - Published: 2026-03-16 - Modified: 2026-04-13 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-a-reggio-inspired-preschool-encourages-children-to-ask-questions/ - Categories: Preschool Have you ever noticed how many questions young children ask? Why is the sky blue? Why do leaves fall from trees? Questions are a natural part of childhood. In our Reggio-inspired preschool, curiosity is welcomed. Questions are not treated as distractions. They often become the starting point for learning. Children are encouraged to notice things around them and talk about what they see. This approach is common in a thoughtful day care learning center where exploration is part of the daily routine. Curiosity Often Starts the Learning Children notice small things. A shadow moves across the floor. A bug crawls along the wall. Rain collects in a small puddle. These moments often lead to questions. Our teachers do not rush to give a quick answer. Instead, they slow the moment down. A teacher might ask the child what they think is happening. Sometimes children observe again. Sometimes they test an idea. The process helps them think more carefully. Teachers Pay Attention to Children’s Interests Listening plays a large role in this approach. We watch what children return to again and again. One child may keep asking about birds outside. Another may notice how plants change during the week. In our Reggio-inspired preschool, these interests can shape classroom exploration. Books may be brought out. Children may draw what they see. They may talk together about what they notice. Questions guide the learning. Materials Help Children Explore Ideas The classroom environment also supports curiosity. Children can reach simple materials in the classroom.... --- - Published: 2026-03-12 - Modified: 2026-03-19 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/why-clean-organized-classrooms-matter-in-a-childcare-learning-center/ - Categories: Childcare When families walk into a classroom for the first time, they notice the feeling before anything else. A space that is clean, calm, and well-organized feels different. Children move more comfortably. Adults speak more softly. The room feels ready for the day. In a childcare learning center, this atmosphere is not accidental. It comes from daily habits, careful setup, and consistent attention to the details that shape how children experience care. Clean Spaces Help Children Settle In We see it every morning. When children enter a classroom that feels orderly, they settle faster. Toys are where they expect them to be. Tables are clear. Floors are clean and open for movement. In a licensed daycare center, cleanliness is not just a matter of appearance. It promotes health and supports emotional comfort. When a place feels stable and familiar, children are more inclined to explore. They know where to go, what to touch, and how to move through the room without feeling overwhelmed. Organization Supports Independence Organization gives children quiet confidence. When materials are stored in the same places each day, children learn how to make choices on their own. They can find what they need, return it when finished, and move on without constant adult direction. In our childcare learning center, structure creates space for learning to happen on its own. Children take on responsibility during small moments, choosing what to work on, putting materials away, and shifting to the next part of the day. These experiences help independence grow... --- - Published: 2026-03-09 - Modified: 2026-03-19 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/what-educational-daycare-in-westchester-looks-like-for-working-families/ - Categories: daycare For working families, daycare is not just about coverage during work hours. It becomes part of daily life. Mornings start with us. Afternoons end with us. Over time, our space becomes familiar to children, a place where they know what to expect and how to settle in. That is why, when families choose educational daycare in Westchester, we know they are not only asking about academics. They are asking how their child’s day will feel. Will it feel steady? Will it feel manageable? Will it feel supportive? A Day That Starts Calmly In our educational daycare, mornings are not rushed. Children arrive with different energy levels, and we plan for that. Some children move straight toward play. Others need a quiet moment to observe before joining in. We pay close attention during arrival. A calm start helps children separate more easily and helps parents leave without stress. When the beginning of the day feels gentle, the rest of the day often follows that same rhythm. Learning Happens While Children Live Their Day In our play-based preschool in Westchester, learning is not separated from care. We see learning happening during conversations, block building, shared play, and movement throughout the room. Children hear new words as we talk with them. They practice early math while counting materials or helping prepare snacks. They problem-solve when something does not work the first time. We do not announce lessons. Learning happens naturally, through repetition and experience. This method respects how young children learn and keeps them... --- - Published: 2026-03-05 - Modified: 2026-03-19 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-infant-childcare-handles-nap-transitions-without-disrupting-babies/ - Categories: Infant Nap time may look simple, but for babies, it is one of the most delicate parts of the day. Sleep does not happen just because it is scheduled. Babies fall asleep when they feel calm, comfortable, and ready. In infant childcare, how we guide nap transitions plays a big role in how well babies rest. We do not rush babies into sleep. We slow down and observe. A baby may move less, stare softly, or relax their body. These signs tell us they are getting tired. In our early childhood learning center, we rely on these cues more than the clock. Every Baby Has Their Own Sleep Rhythm Babies do not all sleep at the same time or for the same length. One baby may need a long morning nap. Another may sleep in shorter stretches throughout the day. We respect these differences. Nap transitions work best when they follow each baby’s own rhythm. We do not push babies into one shared schedule. Instead, we adjust the day around their needs. This kind of flexibility supports healthy early childhood programs. Creating a Calm Path to Sleep As nap time gets closer, we slowly adjust the room. The lights are dimmed. Voices become softer. Movement slows down. These changes happen gradually, not all at once. Babies begin to recognize these patterns. Over time, they learn that rest is coming next. This helps their bodies relax without stress or surprise. Gentle Transitions Make a Difference We move slowly when helping babies get... --- - Published: 2026-03-02 - Modified: 2026-03-17 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/learning-without-worksheets-in-play-based-preschool-classrooms/ - Categories: Preschool Many families ask us about worksheets. They want to know if children will practice letters. If they will trace numbers and bring papers home. We understand the question. Worksheets look like learning. They are easy to measure. Easy to show. But in a strong play-based preschool, we approach learning differently. Learning Does Not Start on Paper Young children learn best with their hands. They learn by building, moving, talking, and testing ideas. When we rely on a worksheet, we limit how much of a child’s brain is involved. In our childcare learning center, we focus on experiences before paper. A child counting blocks understands numbers in a deeper way than a child circling printed numerals. A child forming letters with clay remembers the shape more clearly than one tracing dotted lines. We design engaging learning experiences based on children’s interests, and incorporate learning goals into those experiences. Play Builds Real Understanding In our day care learning center, play is not random. It is thoughtful and intentional. When children set up a pretend grocery store, they sort items, count money, and negotiate roles. When they build a tall structure, they test balance and problem-solve when it falls. This is why a Reggio-inspired preschool environment relies on open-ended materials. There is more than one way to use them. There is more than one possible outcome. That flexibility builds thinking skills worksheets cannot reach. We Watch for Readiness In educational daycare, we pay attention to timing. Some children are more interested in writing... --- - Published: 2026-02-28 - Modified: 2026-03-17 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/why-some-toddlers-need-distance-before-group-interaction/ - Categories: Toddler Not every toddler walks into a room ready to join a group. Some children pause at the edge of play. They watch, listen, and stay close to an adult before moving toward others. This is not a problem to fix. It is a stage many toddlers move through as they learn how group settings work. At our infant daycare center, we see this often. Children arrive with different temperaments and past experiences. Some have spent time with siblings or cousins. Others are just beginning to share space with peers. Needing distance at first is a normal part of that adjustment. Observation Comes Before Participation Toddlers learn by watching. Before joining a group, many children need time to understand what is happening around them. They notice how other children move, which toys are popular, and how adults respond when something goes wrong. We give children room to observe without pressure. Standing nearby and watching helps them feel safe. Once they understand the rhythm of the room, they are more likely to step in on their own terms. Group Play Can Feel Overwhelming Group interaction asks a lot of young children. There is noise, movement, and competition for space and materials. For some toddlers, jumping in right away feels like too much. That space helps toddlers settle. It gives them time to calm their bodies and emotions before stepping in. When they are pushed into group play too quickly, some pull back or become overwhelmed. When they are allowed to approach in... --- - Published: 2026-02-26 - Modified: 2026-03-17 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-infant-daycare-centers-manage-transitions-between-sleep-and-play/ - Categories: daycare Sleep and play are the two biggest parts of an infant’s day. They may look simple from the outside, but the shift between them matters a great deal. A sudden wake-up or a rushed transition can leave a baby unsettled for hours. In our infant daycare center, we treat these transitions with care. The way a baby moves from rest to activity and back again shapes the entire day. We Follow the Baby, Not the Clock In strong infant childcare, sleep does not happen on command. Each baby has a different rhythm. Some rest longer in the morning. Others need shorter naps but more often. We watch for small signs. Slower movement. A quiet stare. Rubbing eyes. These cues guide us. Instead of waking babies at the same time, we let them rise naturally whenever possible. A baby who wakes gently moves into play more calmly. That calm carries forward. Waking Up Slowly When a baby stirs, we do not rush them into bright lights or loud sounds. We give them a moment. A soft voice. A familiar face. A gradual shift from crib to arms or floor. In our best infant day care environment, the room does not suddenly change energy. Other babies continue their quiet play. The tone stays steady. This prevents overstimulation, which often leads to fussiness later. Preparing for Rest The shift from play to sleep is just as important. Babies rarely fall asleep right after active movement. Their bodies need time to settle. We lower the noise.... --- - Published: 2026-02-24 - Modified: 2026-03-17 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/what-to-expect-in-an-early-preschool-program-for-three-year-olds/ - Categories: Blogs Turning three feels big. Children are more independent than they were at two. They talk more. They ask questions. They want to do things by themselves. Families often ask us what really happens inside an early preschool program for this age. They want to know if their child is ready and wonder what the day will look like. We believe it helps to understand the rhythm before the first day begins. A Day With Structure, Not Pressure In strong preschool early childhood education, structure matters. Three-year-olds feel calmer when they know what usually comes next. We follow a steady flow – arrival, play, breakfast, group time, exploration time, outdoor movement, project time, rest. The order stays familiar. That predictability helps children relax. When they are not worried about what is coming next, they participate more easily. At the same time, we do not rush them. Three-year-olds still need time to finish what they start. Social Skills Take Center Stage In an early preschool program, much of the learning happens between children. We see it in the block area. In dramatic play. Even during cleanup. One child wants a turn, another disagrees, and feelings rise quickly. We stay close. We guide without solving everything for them. Over time, children learn to use words instead of tears. They begin to wait and share space. This social growth is just as important as early academics. Independence Grows in Small Ways Three-year-olds want responsibility. They want to carry their own backpack. They want to... --- - Published: 2026-02-19 - Modified: 2026-02-24 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-reggio-inspired-preschools-build-confidence-through-exploration/ - Categories: Preschool Confidence in young children does not appear because someone tells them they are doing a good job. It grows quietly, through experiences that let them act, observe, adjust, and continue at their own pace. In a Reggio-inspired preschool, confidence is shaped by trust. Children are trusted to explore their ideas, take their time, and decide how deeply they want to engage. Rather than starting with instructions, we begin with curiosity. When children are given room to follow what draws their attention, they begin to see themselves as capable thinkers. That feeling of capability becomes the foundation for confidence. Exploration Is the Starting Point In a Reggio-inspired preschool, learning begins with hands-on discovery. Children investigate materials without being told what the final result should look like. They stack, sort, arrange, move, and rethink. Some children jump right in. Others watch closely before participating. Both approaches are valued. When children are not rushed or corrected too quickly, they feel safer experimenting. They learn that mistakes are part of the process, not something to avoid. Over time, this freedom builds confidence because children are allowed to trust their instincts. The Space Encourages Independence The environment plays a quiet but powerful role. Materials are arranged so that kids can access them. Tables, rugs, and work areas invite different kinds of activity. Nothing feels off-limits. In a day care learning center that follows Reggio-inspired practices, children are encouraged to make choices throughout the day. Choosing materials, deciding how long to stay with an activity, or... --- - Published: 2026-02-15 - Modified: 2026-02-24 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/choosing-the-best-daycare-for-working-parents-what-really-matters/ - Categories: Blogs, daycare For working parents, daycare becomes part of the family’s rhythm. We see it every day. Mornings begin with drop-offs, evenings end with tired children heading home, and the hours in between matter so much for children’s development. The best daycare for working parents is not defined by long lists of features. It is defined by how children feel during those hours and how smoothly the day fits into family life. A Day That Feels Predictable We start by paying attention to transitions. Children arrive carrying the mood of their morning. Some come in talking right away. Others hold back and need time. We do not rush these moments. A calm arrival helps children settle, and when children feel settled, parents leave with less worry. Predictability matters. When the room looks familiar and the routine stays steady, children relax. They know where things belong. They know what usually happens next. That sense of order helps them move through the day with confidence, even when the day is long. Learning Without Pressure We do not separate care from learning. In our rooms, learning happens while children live their day. In a play-based preschool setting, children learn through building, talking, moving, and trying things out. They are not pushed to perform or sit through lessons that do not fit their age. We hear new words during conversations. We see early math during cleanup or snack time. Problem-solving shows up when a structure falls and a child decides whether to try again. These moments... --- - Published: 2026-02-13 - Modified: 2026-02-24 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-an-early-preschool-program-builds-independence-through-small-tasks/ - Categories: Blogs, Preschool Independence does not appear all at once in young children. It grows quietly, through small moments that repeat each day. In an early preschool program, these moments are built into the routine. They are not lessons. They are part of how the day moves. We see independence begin when children are trusted with simple responsibilities. Choosing an activity. Carrying a tray. Putting materials back on a shelf. These tasks may look small, but they help children feel capable in a real way. Why Small Tasks Matter at This Age Young children want to do things for themselves, even when they still need support. When tasks are sized correctly, children can succeed without feeling overwhelmed. In our preschool program, we keep responsibility simple. A child may return a single item rather than tidy the whole space. They may take one step at a time during transitions. These small moments help children feel capable. Independence grows when children feel trusted, not rushed. Everyday Routines That Encourage Independence We design the day so children can take part in it. Materials are placed where children can reach them. Activities are familiar. Expectations stay consistent. Children learn independence through daily routines such as: Picking where to play. Carrying their own belongings. Cleaning up after an activity. Moving calmly to the next part of the day. These routines repeat. Over time, children begin doing them without reminders. That is when independence becomes natural. The Role of the Adult Our role is not to step in quickly.... --- - Published: 2026-02-09 - Modified: 2026-02-24 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-early-childhood-programs-help-children-handle-waiting-and-turn-taking/ - Categories: Blogs Waiting does not come naturally to young children. Neither does taking turns. We do not expect children to walk into an early childhood learning center already knowing how to manage these moments. These skills take time, repetition, and a setting that allows children to learn without feeling corrected or rushed. In our early childhood programs, waiting shows up in small, ordinary ways. A child waits while another finishes with a toy. Someone waits for help tying a shoe. A group waits while a friend speaks. None of these moments are planned lessons, but all of them matter. Why Waiting Feels So Hard at First Young children live very much in the moment. When they want something, their body reacts before their thinking catches up. Waiting asks them to slow down, notice others, and trust that their turn will come later. That is a lot to manage at once. We see frustration as part of learning. In our early childhood learning center, we do not treat impatience as misbehavior. We treat it as a skill that is still forming. How Daily Routines Support Turn-Taking Turn-taking becomes easier when the day feels predictable. When children know what usually happens next, they feel steadier. That steadiness makes waiting more manageable. We build turn-taking into everyday routines, passing out materials, and taking turns choosing a song. Waiting during cleanup while another child finishes. These moments repeat every day, which gives children many chances to practice. Over time, children begin to understand the pattern. They... --- - Published: 2026-02-05 - Modified: 2026-02-24 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-early-education-centers-build-attention-and-focus-naturally/ - Categories: Blogs, Childcare We never assume young children walk through the door knowing how to concentrate. Focus is not something a child arrives with. It takes shape slowly, influenced by tone, timing, and how safe a child feels settling into the day. In an early education center for Westchester families, attention grows through ordinary moments rather than direct teaching. Children bring different energy with them. Some settle quickly with a book or a puzzle. Others move through the room, touching a little of everything. Neither response is a problem. In our early childcare center, we look at what the environment is offering before asking a child to change their behavior. A Day With a Familiar Rhythm Focus comes more easily when the day feels predictable. When children recognize the flow of arrival, play, snack, and rest, they stop scanning the room for what might happen next. Their bodies soften, and their attention follows. We try not to rush transitions. Children are given time to wrap up what they are doing and prepare for what comes next. When they trust that activities will not be taken away suddenly, they stay with them longer. That trust becomes the base for concentration. Materials That Invite Return We pay close attention to what we place in the room. Too many choices can pull attention in every direction. Instead, we offer materials that feel approachable and familiar. Children return to the same shelves and tables again and again. They explore the same objects in new ways. There is... --- - Published: 2026-01-29 - Modified: 2026-02-24 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/what-do-babies-do-at-daycare/ - Categories: Blogs, Childcare Babies don’t follow schedules the way older children do. They don’t move from activity to activity or sit down for lessons. Most of their day is shaped by simple needs – sleep, food, comfort. Curiosity that comes and goes in short bursts. That’s why “What do babies do at daycare? ” has a simple answer. In a quality baby daycare environment, babies spend their day being cared for in steady, thoughtful ways. The focus is not on keeping them busy. It’s on keeping them comfortable, safe, and supported while they grow at their own pace. Care Comes First, Always The largest part of a baby’s day in daycare is made up of care routines. Feeding, diaper changes, naps, and quiet holding time happen throughout the day. These moments are not rushed or treated like tasks to check off. Caregivers pay attention to cues. A baby who turns their head away may be full. A baby who rubs their eyes may need rest. Responding to these signals builds trust. Over time, babies begin to relax because their needs are met consistently. This is the foundation of infant childcare. Each Baby Has Their Own Rhythm Unlike preschool or toddler rooms, infant daycare does not run on one shared schedule. Babies eat at different times. They nap for different lengths. Some need more soothing than others. Instead of pressuring infants into an unsuitable routine, caregivers in a peaceful daycare center modify the day to suit each child. Instead of being overstimulated, this flexibility... --- - Published: 2026-01-24 - Modified: 2026-02-24 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/daycare-services-for-sleepy-hollow-families-built-around-daily-observation/ - Categories: Blogs, daycare Our daycare services for Sleepy Hollow families begin with paying attention. We watch how children walk into the room. Some move straight toward play. Others pause at the door. A few need a longer goodbye. As the hours pass, we keep noticing shifts. Energy rises. Energy drops. A nap runs shorter than usual. Lunch looks different from yesterday. A child who was loud in the morning becomes quiet after outdoor play. Small changes matter. They tell us how to adjust care and what parents need to know when the day is done. Observation is not something we do once. It continues quietly from arrival to pick up. Infant Daycare for Sleepy Hollow Families and Daily Communication Infant daycare for Sleepy Hollow families requires closer attention because babies communicate through cues, not words. A slight change in feeding rhythm or sleep pattern often signals something important. We keep careful records throughout the day. Feedings, rest periods, diaper changes, comfort needs, and overall mood are noted as they happen.   With this degree of information, parents can confidently comprehend their infant's entire day. When routines stay aligned between home and daycare, babies settle more easily. Consistency reduces stress for everyone involved. How Our Childcare Learning Center for Sleepy Hollow Families Shares Updates As a childcare learning center for Sleepy Hollow families, communication is treated as part of care, not a separate task. Updates are entered as the day moves along so they stay accurate and useful. We share daily routines, meaningful moments,... --- - Published: 2026-01-21 - Modified: 2026-02-24 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-daycare-centers-help-children-learn-social-skills-naturally/ - Categories: Blogs, daycare Social skills develop slowly, through everyday moments, not lessons. In day care centers, children learn how to navigate group life by living it. In childcare settings, children spend hours alongside peers who want different things at the same time. One child wants the red truck. Another wants quiet. Someone wants attention right now. These ordinary situations create the conditions where social learning begins. Social Learning Happens in Ordinary Situations Most social growth happens during moments adults might overlook. A child waits while another finishes speaking. Two children try to carry the same basket and bump into each other. Someone becomes upset when a game changes. In daycare, these situations happen on a daily basis. Adults remain nearby, keep a close eye on things, and only step in when help is needed. This balance gives children room to work things out without feeling unsupported. Over time, children begin noticing patterns. They notice what works and what doesn't. They notice how others react. This awareness cultivates empathy. Being Around Other Children Makes a Difference One of the most valuable parts of daycare is simple exposure. Children learn by watching others. They copy words, gestures, and reactions without being told. In preschool environments, children practice negotiating naturally. They suggest ideas, disagree, adjust, and try again. Some days feel smooth. Others feel messy. Both are important. Within early childhood programs, peer interaction builds patience. Children learn that waiting is part of being in a group. This becomes easier when routines stay consistent. The Adult... --- - Published: 2026-01-18 - Modified: 2026-02-24 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-a-preschool-for-3-year-olds-in-elmsford-builds-confidence/ - Categories: Blogs, Toddler Families searching for a preschool for 3-year-olds in Elmsford are usually not looking for academics first. They want to know if their child will feel comfortable walking into the room. They wonder if their child will speak up, try new things, and recover when something feels hard. At three, confidence does not arrive all at once. It forms slowly, through repetition and trust. It shows up when a child feels safe enough to participate without being pushed. Why Three-Year-Olds Need a Different Pace Three-year-olds are no longer toddlers, but they are not ready for pressure either. They want to do things on their own, but still look to adults for reassurance. In preschool settings, three year olds benefit from time. Time to answer a question. Time to finish a task. Time to decide whether to join a group. When children are allowed to move at their own pace, they cultivate trust in themselves. This approach is especially important for families transitioning from toddler care in Elmsford, where comfort and routine have already been established. How Daily Structure Builds Confidence In our classroom, the day follows a familiar flow. Arrival looks the same each morning. Materials stay in predictable places. Activities unfold in an order that children come to recognize. This predictability matters. When children know what is coming next, they relax. When they feel settled, they try more. They raise their hand. They sit longer during group time. They speak when something doesn't feel right. Structure is not about control.... --- - Published: 2025-12-19 - Modified: 2026-02-24 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-childcare-centers-encourage-healthy-eating-without-pressure/ - Categories: Blogs, Childcare In a childcare setting, food isn’t just food. It’s part of the flow of the day—one of the moments where children slow down, sit with others, and find a little bit of calm after all the movement and noise.   When teachers treat meals and snacks gently, children begin to relax around food. They taste things because they feel comfortable, not because they’re being pushed. And that comfort changes everything. A Mealtime Atmosphere That Feels Safe Most childcare centers keep their mealtimes simple. Children sit together, talk quietly, and take their time. Nothing is rushed. Nothing is forced. A calm table helps children notice how their own body feels – something young children are still learning to understand. When teachers aren’t hovering over every bite, children naturally start eating at a pace that makes sense for them. Some take small bites and look around the room. Others finish one food before even glancing at the rest. It’s all acceptable, and that relaxed attitude helps children build trust around mealtimes. Familiar Foods Come First Childcare programs usually offer foods that children recognize: fruit slices, soft vegetables, crackers, yogurt, or small pieces of chicken. These foods work well because they don’t overwhelm children. A banana slice or a spoonful of peas is something they can handle, even on a day when emotions are running high. New foods do appear, but always beside something familiar. Children don’t need to finish anything, and they don’t need to like everything. They just need to experience... --- - Published: 2025-12-19 - Modified: 2026-02-24 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/daycare-or-staying-home-understanding-what-helps-your-infant-thrive/ - Categories: Blogs, daycare Most families reach a point where they sit at the kitchen table, look at their baby, and wonder what comes next. Should one parent stay home a little longer? Would a daycare setting offer something they can’t provide alone? It’s a decision that doesn’t come with a perfect answer, and almost every parent feels a pull in two directions. Wanting to be present. Wanting to keep life steady. Wanting to do what feels right for their child. What infants need most is steadiness – someone who responds to their cries, holds them when the world feels too loud, and talks to them throughout the day. This can happen at home with a parent or inside a calm, thoughtful childcare setting. The location is not as important as the strategy. How Babies Learn in the First Year During the first year, everything is new. Babies learn through tiny cues: the rhythm of a familiar voice, the warmth of a caregiver’s hands, and the way a room feels when routines repeat in the same order. Whether at home or in daycare, infants depend on simple moments that build trust. Language begins in these quiet exchanges. A parent humming during a diaper change or a caregiver describing a rattle’s sound both plant the seeds for communication. Physical development grows the same way: reaching toward objects, pushing up from the floor, rolling, sitting, and watching faces. At this age, the difference between home care and a structured setting isn’t about content. It’s about what... --- - Published: 2025-12-17 - Modified: 2026-02-24 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/what-children-learn-in-preschool/ - Categories: Blogs, Preschool Something shifts around age three. Your child who played alone happily now has endless questions. Why is the sky blue? Where do bugs sleep? Can we dig to China? That curiosity needs the right space to grow. Walk into a quality childcare center and you won't see worksheets. You'll see blocks everywhere, paint on elbows, two kids arguing over the blue truck. It looks messy, but real learning happens in that chaos. Why Preschool Matters The best early childhood education programs understand that three-year-olds aren't tiny first graders. Their brains work differently. They learn by doing, touching, trying, failing, and trying again. Picture a Tuesday morning. One child spends twenty minutes at the water table, pouring and measuring. Another builds a castle with blocks that keep collapsing. A few run a pretend restaurant. Someone paints a picture of their dog. Every child is learning something. Water table equals early math. Collapsed castle equals problem-solving. Pretend restaurant equals social skills. Purple painting equals fine motor control. Teachers guide gently. They ask questions, make suggestions, help resolve conflicts, and notice when someone needs a new challenge. Academic Learning That Doesn't Feel Like Work No preschooler thinks, "I can't wait to learn letters today! " But in good educational daycare settings, they absorb the learning through play and projects. Letters appear everywhere – coat hooks, books, calendars, name tags. Children recognize them without formal lessons. Numbers too. "We need five plates. " "How many blocks? " "Pick two friends. " Science happens when... --- - Published: 2025-12-16 - Modified: 2026-02-24 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-thoughtful-praise-helps-preschoolers-build-confidence/ - Categories: Blogs, Preschool Learn how thoughtful praise in preschool classrooms helps children feel seen, stay calm, and build confidence during everyday challenges that shape learning. Teachers who spend their days with young children notice something most people overlook. The smallest moments often change the direction of a child’s day. A teacher leaning in to watch a child try again.   A gentle comment at the right time. A smile that says, “I saw how hard you worked. ” These quiet interactions help children feel steady. They help them feel seen. Preschoolers face challenges constantly. A toy tower falls the moment they look away. A paintbrush rolls under the table. A zipper refuses to cooperate even after five tries.   When an adult offers genuine praise in these moments, children feel supported. They gain the confidence to try again instead of giving up or feeling embarrassed. Praise, when used thoughtfully, becomes a soft anchor that helps them stay calm and willing to learn. The Different Ways Children Take in Praise Not all types of praise feel the same to young children. What adults say matters, and the tone matters just as much. Praise focused on traits When children hear comments like “You’re so smart,” they may enjoy it for a moment. But soon, many start feeling pressure to keep proving something.   If they run into something difficult, they worry the adult might change their mind. This kind of trait-focused praise can unintentionally make children hide mistakes or avoid new challenges. Praise focused on effort When adults notice the work a child puts in, the message feels different. A teacher might say, “You kept trying even... --- - Published: 2025-12-15 - Modified: 2026-02-24 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/health-safety-and-attachment-practices-in-infant-daycare-in-tarrytown/ - Categories: Blogs, daycare When families start looking into infant daycare in Tarrytown, the questions usually come quickly. Who will hold my baby? How will they know what my baby needs? What happens when my child cries and I am not there? In a strong early childcare center in Tarrytown, these questions guide the way care is given. Infant care is not about managing a schedule. It is about noticing small signals and responding with calm, steady attention. Everyday Health and Safety Routines We focus first on creating a safe, clean, predictable space.   Infant rooms stay simple, and follow infants’ individualized schedules. Toys are washed often.   Floors and surfaces are checked throughout the day.   Feeding areas and diaper stations are cleaned carefully between each use. Safe sleep practices are followed every time.   Infants are placed down gently and monitored closely.   Bottles and food are handled with care and labeled clearly. In an infant daycare in Tarrytown, these routines help babies relax. When the environment feels steady, infants spend less time startled and more time settling into their day. Attachment Happens in Small Moments Attachment forms during regular care. We respond when a baby cries. We slow down during feedings. We talk softly during diaper changes. These moments repeat many times a day, and babies connect with the people caring for them. In our early childhood program in Tarrytown, we watch for cues. Some babies want to be held longer. Some want space to move. Paying attention to these differences... --- - Published: 2025-12-06 - Modified: 2026-02-24 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/active-listening-activities-that-help-young-children-communicate-with-confidence/ - Categories: Preschool Learn how listening skills grow in preschool through daily routines, warm interactions, and active listening that helps children feel heard and focused. Children pick up listening skills long before anyone teaches them how to “be a good listener. ” Most of the learning happens in small, everyday moments, like when a teacher kneels beside a child to talk about their drawing, when two children trade ideas in the block area, or when a caregiver softly repeats a phrase during story time. Listening grows slowly, but the right environment makes it easier. In preschool and childcare settings, active listening isn’t a formal lesson. It develops through routines that feel steady and interactions that feel warm. When children know they are being heard, they naturally begin paying more attention to others. What Active Listening Really Means for Young Children For young children, active listening looks simple. A child makes eye contact for a few seconds, repeats a word they’ve heard, asks a small question, or pauses long enough to process what someone else said. These tiny behaviors show that the child is not just hearing words but making sense of them. In a preschool classroom, active listening usually happens during gentle conversations. A teacher might describe what a child is building, and the child answers with their own idea. During snack, children notice what others are doing and respond. These everyday exchanges slowly strengthen how they listen and how they speak. Why Listening Skills Matter So Much Good listening skills support nearly every part of a child’s growth. Children who listen well often settle into routines more smoothly. They understand directions, join group play... --- - Published: 2025-11-26 - Modified: 2026-02-24 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-to-create-a-positive-learning-environment-in-early-childhood/ - Categories: daycare Children learn best in places where they feel steady, welcomed, and understood. A calm, warm setting helps them try new things without fear of being wrong. In early childhood classrooms, the atmosphere shapes almost everything: how children interact, how they handle frustration, and even how willing they are to speak up.   A positive learning environment is something that forms over time through habits, routines, and gentle teaching. What Makes a Learning Environment “Positive”? A positive environment in early childhood education is one where children feel safe and listened to. It is built on steady routines, predictable expectations, and warm relationships. When young learners can trust the adults in the room, they settle into their day much more easily. They take more chances. They communicate more. They join group activities without hesitation. These environments generally share a few qualities: • Children are noticed for their effort, not only their results. • Families feel included and respected. • Teachers use calm voices and clear expectations. • The room is set up so children can move, explore, and make choices. • Mistakes are treated as chances to learn, not moments to scold. The goal is not perfection. The goal is a space where children feel supported and ready for what comes next. Why a Positive Environment Matters Children thrive when the classroom feels consistent. They follow routines more easily. Their confidence grows. They start to develop early problem-solving and communication skills. In a calm and predictable setting, children spend more time investigating... --- - Published: 2025-11-23 - Modified: 2026-02-24 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-a-licensed-daycare-center-handles-daily-safety-checks/ - Categories: Blogs, daycare Parents in Westchester sometimes imagine safety as one big system, but in a licensed daycare center, safety is built out of small habits.   We pay attention to tiny things that don’t seem like much on their own, yet they shape the day. A room that feels settled and clean changes how children walk into it. How We Start the Morning Before any child arrives, we take a quiet walk through the room. It’s not dramatic, just a slow look at the things children will use first. We open the bin of blocks to make sure nothing is cracked. We try a couple of markers, straighten a puzzle, check the crib sheets, wipe a table that somehow gathered dust overnight. These small steps help the room feel familiar. If a child sits down and everything works the way they expect, the day starts gently. That’s what we want – a soft beginning. Keeping Things Clean While the Day Unfolds Cleaning doesn’t happen just once. It’s part of the flow. After breakfast, we wipe the tables. When something gets dropped on the floor, we pick it up. Toys that end up in a toddler’s mouth go straight into a washing bin. We don’t stop the day for it. We just take care of things as we notice them. Outside, we do the same. A quick look at the ground, the slide, the fence – nothing complicated, just making sure the space looks right before we send the children running toward it.... --- - Published: 2025-11-15 - Modified: 2025-12-16 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-to-prepare-your-child-for-preschool/ - Categories: Preschool Starting preschool is a big moment for young children, and most families feel it long before the first day arrives. Children sense it too. Some talk excitedly about school, while others stay quiet and watchful.   Preparing them doesn’t have to feel complicated. A few small steps, repeated gently over time, usually help children settle into the new routine with more comfort. Parents might point out things like, “You’ll put your backpack on a hook,” or “Your teacher will read to the class. ” These tiny pieces of information stick, and help children picture what is coming. Helping Children Get Comfortable With the Idea of Preschool Talking about the day in a calm, matter-of-fact way gives children a sense of predictability. Some families use pretend play to introduce what will happen.   One moment, a child pretends to walk into a classroom. Another moment, a parent pretends to be the teacher greeting them. The goal isn’t to rehearse every detail. It’s simply to make school feel familiar. Books also help children warm up to the idea. Many picture books show classrooms, cubbies, clean-up time, and playgrounds. Children often point to something they recognize, which opens the door to small conversations – who they might meet, where they might sit, what toys they might see. Practice Little Skills Before the First Day Preschool routines are simple, but they feel new at first. When children have practiced a few tasks ahead of time, they walk in with more confidence. Families sometimes try... --- - Published: 2025-11-11 - Modified: 2025-12-08 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/why-parents-value-consistency-in-childcare-in-sleepy-hollow/ - Categories: Childcare When parents talk with us, one thing comes up again and again. They want calm mornings. They want the same faces greeting their child every day and a space that feels familiar. Nothing fancy, just steady. In our experience, that’s what helps children settle and grow. At Discovery Village, a trusted childcare in Sleepy Hollow, we notice how children change once they understand the rhythm of their day. They walk in, find their spot, and start playing. They know when it’s time for songs, for outdoor play, and for lunch. The predictability gives them confidence. It sounds simple, but it matters a great deal. A Day That Feels Steady Mornings begin softly. Children hang coats, wave goodbye, and head toward friends. The room fills with small voices and the sound of toys being moved. After a while come stories, art, and time outside. The order rarely shifts. Because of that, the room feels calm even when it’s full of energy. We see the comfort this creates. A child who once cried at drop-off now walks in smiling. Another who stayed quiet during circle time starts joining in songs. The sense of safety that comes from knowing what happens next lets them focus on play and friendship. Familiar Teachers, Familiar Care At our childcare in Sleepy Hollow, the same teachers guide children through each stage of the year. They learn every habit and every small signal. A glance is often enough to know what a child needs. That kind of understanding... --- - Published: 2025-11-07 - Modified: 2025-12-08 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/when-is-the-right-time-for-kids-to-start-preschool/ - Categories: Preschool Parents often ask this question long before their child is even close to preschool age. Most kids start preschool around the ages of 3 or 4, but age alone is not the only factor to consider. What helps more is watching how a child handles small daily experiences and whether they show early signs of comfort in a group setting. Is your child ready for preschool? Quick Checklist What Does Preschool Readiness Actually Mean? Is Your Child Comfortable with Short Separations? How Does Your Child Interact With Other Children? Can Your Child Follow Simple Instructions? Can Your Child Communicate Basic Needs? Does Your Child Need to Be Potty-Trained Before Starting Preschool? What If Your Child Isn’t Ready Yet? What If Your Child Seems Ready Earlier? How Can Families Decide With Confidence? Tips to Prepare Your Child for Preschool Discovery Village: Preschool for Families in Sleepy Hollow What Does Preschool Readiness Actually Mean? Preschool readiness is easier to see when you look at behavior instead of numbers. A child who shows interest in toys, listens during simple activities, and joins others during play is often moving toward readiness. These abilities don’t need to be strong. They just need to be starting. Tiny steps count. At Discovery Village, we tell families to look for slow changes. A child beginning to follow directions more often, noticing what other children are doing, or showing curiosity about routines is usually on the right path. We don’t expect everything at once. Preschool readiness is something that... --- - Published: 2025-11-01 - Modified: 2025-12-16 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/daily-routines-that-support-children-to-thrive-in-childcare-in-sleepy-hollow/ - Categories: Childcare Among the most significant keys to supporting children to thrive is a predictable, yet flexible daily schedule.   At Discovery Village, a trusted childcare in Sleepy Hollow, we notice how children flourish once they understand the rhythm of their day. They walk in and are greeted with warmth and affection by teachers and peers. They know when it’s time for songs, for outdoor play, for center time, for science and art, and for lunch.   At Discovery Village, we plan blocks of time without rigid start and stop times. When children are fully engaged, we continue an activity for longer. When their interest wanes, we end the activity. The structure gives children confidence, while the flexibility honors their interests and needs. We intentionally seek to cultivate an experience of “engaged calm” - activities children enjoy without the frenetic pace of rushing from one thing to the next. A Day That Feels Steady Mornings begin softly. Children are warmly welcomed, wave goodbye to parents, and head toward friends. The room fills with small voices and the sound of toys being moved.   After a while come stories, art, and time outside. The order rarely shifts. Because of that, the room feels calm even when it’s full of energy. We see the comfort this creates. A child who once cried at drop-off now walks in smiling. Another who stayed quiet during circle time starts joining in songs.   The sense of safety that comes from knowing what happens next lets them focus... --- - Published: 2025-10-30 - Modified: 2025-12-16 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/when-should-a-child-start-reading/ - Categories: Childcare At Discovery Village Center, our childcare teachers are often asked by families in Sleepy Hollow and other areas, When should my child start reading? It's such a natural question for parents to have. Reading feels like one of those milestones that tells us our child is growing up.   But the truth is, reading doesn't begin with sounding out words. It starts much earlier – in the warmth of stories shared together, in songs sung before bedtime, and in the quiet moments when children listen and imagine. Every Child Finds Their Own Reading Rhythm Each child tends to find their way into reading at their own pace. Some may start recognizing letters at three, while others may do so a little later.   What matters most is that we give them time, patience, and joy along the way.   In our classrooms, children are surrounded by language – stories read aloud, rhymes that make them giggle, and conversations that fill their day.   Reading Milestones: Stages of Early Reading By the age of 2, toddlers may start turning pages, asking for their favorite books, and some may even try to read along with you or their teachers. At ages 3 to 4, they begin to notice words all around them, connecting meaning and sound – long before proper reading officially "starts. " Between the ages of 5 and 6, most kids start reading consonant-vowel-consonant words and read familiar words confidently.   After the age of 6, most children start reading... --- - Published: 2025-10-21 - Modified: 2025-10-21 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/meals-allergies-nutrition-what-to-ask-your-tarrytown-day-care-center/ - Categories: daycare When parents tour day care centers in Tarrytown, they often ask about curriculum, safety, or play spaces. But one topic that deserves just as much attention is food. How does the center plan meals? What if your child has allergies? And how do teachers make mealtimes calm and positive for everyone? At Discovery Village, we talk about food often because it’s such a big part of a child’s day. Little ones try new foods, and learn routines that often-become family habits at home. How Are Meals Planned Each Day? It’s a good idea to ask how your child’s meals are chosen and prepared. Are they balanced? Fresh? Age-appropriate? The answers to these questions will tell you a lot about how a daycare handles the nutrition of enrolled kids. At Discovery Village, our on-site full-time chef prepares nourishing, healthy meals and snacks that help children feel satisfied and ready to learn. A healthy breakfast, lunch, and afternoon snack is included in the cost of tuition. The goal of our day care center is not just to feed but also to teach healthy habits that last.   How Are Allergies and Special Diets Managed? If your child has allergies, you’ll want to know how the staff stays alert and organized. Do they keep allergy lists visible? Are teachers trained on what to do if a reaction happens? Our team at Discovery Village treats allergy management as a shared responsibility. We communicate closely with families, keep clear records, and make sure every teacher... --- - Published: 2025-10-19 - Modified: 2025-12-17 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-play-based-activities-help-preschoolers-with-math-and-literacy/ - Categories: Preschool When parents think of math and literacy, they often picture worksheets or flashcards. But in early childhood, learning doesn’t begin at a desk; it begins through play. At Discovery Village daycare center and preschool in Irvington, we’ve seen how play-based learning can spark curiosity, confidence, and a love of learning that lasts for years. Play gives children the freedom to explore ideas, experiment with language, and make sense of numbers in ways that feel natural and fun. What Is Play-Based Learning? Play-based learning is learning through play and fun activities, such as when children build towers, sort blocks by color, listen to stories, or pretend to run a grocery store. Through these playful moments, children develop:  Problem-solving skills Early math understanding Stronger language basics  ... without even realizing they are learning. At Discovery Village, we design our preschool classrooms and daily routines so that learning happens through joy and movement, not memorization. And we assess, not with tests, but through observation. We document the skills children are demonstrating and expand opportunities for them to develop the vital skills needed for success in kindergarten and in life. How Play Builds Early Math Skills Preschoolers at our center in Irvington learn math without worksheets. They learn it through play. When a child stacks blocks, they start to understand balance, height, and quantity. Teachers observe, engage, and document skills. We then encourage activities that continue to cultivate skills, documenting and sharing progress with parents. When children set the table for friends or pour... --- - Published: 2025-10-17 - Modified: 2025-12-08 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/what-a-preschool-day-looks-like-for-children-in-elmsford/ - Categories: Uncategorized When parents ask what a preschool day looks like, we smile. It’s busy, sometimes loud, and always full of the small things that truly are the big things in life. At Discovery Village - the best preschool program in Elmsford - every day has a rhythm of care, curiosity, and comfort. Morning Arrival and Play The day begins softly. Teachers greet each child by name, helping them settle in. There’s time to warm up, talk, and explore. Some children dive into puzzles, others grab crayons, and a few just stand watching for a minute. We gather together for breakfast, socializing and enjoying nourishing food prepared on site your own chef. It’s then on to our morning meeting where a short song, a story, or a question starts the day. A single comment can begin the morning project. Maybe someone notices rain on the window, and suddenly the class is talking about puddles. These moments spark curiosity and turn ordinary mornings into discovery. Or perhaps we’re already well into an ongoing exploration on an intriguing topic such as architecture or space exploration. Learning Through Play Learning here happens in motion. Children paint, build, pour, and sort. A group stacking blocks starts comparing sizes, testing balance, and laughing when it all falls down. Others mix colors to see what new ones appear. Teachers guide, listen, and encourage questions, but don’t rush to give answers. It’s about helping children think for themselves. While children experience the program as play, projects, exploration, and discovery... --- - Published: 2025-10-13 - Modified: 2025-10-17 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/benefits-of-project-based-play-in-daycare-learning-center-in-westchester/ - Categories: daycare In a busy classroom, mornings often begin quietly. Children arrive, find their favorite corner, and start to explore. A few build with blocks. Others watch light move across the floor or collect crayons that roll off the table. Teachers walk among them, listening for the small moments that can grow into something more. At our daycare learning center in Westchester, those moments are where project-based play begins. It isn’t a planned lesson or a task to finish. It’s a way for children to follow their curiosity and turn it into something meaningful. How Curiosity Becomes Learning Sometimes a project starts with a question - why does a leaf float or why does paint mix into new colors? Teachers notice these questions and build around them. They might bring in water tubs, brushes, or mirrors. The children gather, talk, and try things out. Before long, play becomes an experiment. They guess, test, and see what happens. The learning hides inside the laughter. A child is practicing measurement when they pour water into a cup. Building a tower is another way to experiment with design and balance.   Learning by Doing When children take the lead, mistakes don’t stop them. Paint spills, towers fall, and ideas shift halfway through. Teachers stay nearby, asking, “What do you think we could try now? ” That question opens the door for problem-solving. A bridge that doesn’t stand the first time turns into something sturdier the next. Each small success builds patience and pride. Parents often... --- - Published: 2025-10-10 - Modified: 2025-10-07 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/why-families-choose-baby-daycare-in-irvington-over-home-care/ - Categories: daycare Parents in Irvington often go back and forth on the same question: is it better to keep a baby at home with a nanny or relative, or to choose a baby daycare in Irvington? Both provide care and safety, but the daily experience looks very different. Families often discover that daycare offers something more than home care can. Routines That Help Babies Settle Babies are creatures of habit. At daycare, naps, bottles, and play happen in a steady rhythm. Not every child has the same schedule, but the flow of the day is predictable. One mom recently told us her son started to nap more easily at home after a few weeks in daycare, simply because he began to expect the pattern of the day. In home care, routines often depend on one person. That can mean flexibility, which some families like, but it doesn’t always provide the same consistency. Parents often say they notice the difference when their baby transitions to an early childhood center. Social Growth Happens Sooner Than You Think Even before babies play together, they notice one another. At our baby daycare in Irvington classrooms, infants watch peers crawl, clap, or babble and then try to copy. Parents have shared stories of “firsts” sparked this way: the first wave, the first laugh back at another baby, even the first attempt at crawling. In home care, babies usually spend most of their day with adults. It’s warm and familiar, but it doesn’t give the same chances to... --- - Published: 2025-10-05 - Modified: 2025-12-08 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-play-based-preschool-in-sleepy-hollow-helps-children-learn-and-thrive/ - Categories: Preschool Parents in Sleepy Hollow often want to know what we mean when we say “play-based preschool. ” On the surface, it sounds simple: children playing. But when you look closer, you see how much learning is happening.   At our play-based preschool in Sleepy Hollow, play is not a break from learning. It is the way children learn. Learning That Doesn’t Feel Like Lessons Children are wired to explore. Instead of worksheets, we give them real experiences. A pile of blocks teaches balance and problem-solving. Pretend play in the kitchen corner builds language, patience, and cooperation. A paintbrush in a small hand strengthens the muscles needed for writing later.   From a child’s view of the world they are playing and exploring all day. From an adults’ view of the world, children are immersed in well rounded learning experiences encompassing the core early childhood learning areas: social-emotional, physical, cognitive, language, literacy, mathematics, science, social studies, and the arts. Parents have shared how children’s curiosity and knowledge expands dramatically after only a short time at Discovery Village. From blocks, they explore architecture. From hand-washing they discover the wonders of water, branching out into life under the sea, rain clouds, and gardening. By following children’s interests, worlds of possibility open. To children, it’s just fun. To parents, the conversations and learning children bring home are proof that play builds skills without the pressure of “lessons. ” Social and Emotional Growth Play is also where children practice being part of a group. They... --- - Published: 2025-10-01 - Modified: 2025-12-08 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-sleep-and-feeding-are-managed-at-an-infant-daycare-in-tarrytown/ - Categories: Infant Parents often tell us that sleep and feeding are their biggest concerns when considering infant daycare in Tarrytown. It makes sense. Those two routines shape so much of a baby’s day. At Discovery Village, we see sleep and feeding not as tasks to get through but as moments to nurture comfort, growth, and trust. Sleep in Infant Daycare No two babies nap the same way. Some drift off quickly, others take longer, and a few resist naps altogether. We don’t force a single routine on every child. Instead, we ask parents about their baby’s rhythm and do our best to follow it here. Each infant has their own crib, labeled clearly, so it’s familiar and consistent. Teachers create a calm space: soft light, quiet voices, and gentle transitions. Safe sleep practices are always in place: babies rest on their backs, cribs stay clear, and teachers check often. If a child needs extra comfort, we rock, hum, or offer a pacifier if that’s what the family uses at home. And because parents want to know how their child slept, every nap is logged. Families see exactly when their baby rested and for how long. Feeding in Infant Daycare Feeding is just as personal. Some babies eat every two hours, others wait longer between feedings. We prepare bottles of breast milk or formula according to family instructions. Everything is labeled, and offered on the child’s individual schedule. When babies begin solids, we go slowly. Parents tell us which foods to start with,... --- - Published: 2025-09-26 - Modified: 2025-09-23 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/what-is-a-play-based-preschool-and-why-do-parents-in-sleepy-hollow-choose-it/ - Categories: Preschool Parents in Sleepy Hollow often ask us, “What exactly is a play-based preschool? ” The phrase sounds simple, but the meaning goes deep. A play-based preschool like ours, Discovery Village, is built on the idea that children learn best when through play. “Play is the highest form of research. ” Albert Einstein What Play-Based Preschool Really Means In our project and play-based preschool, we don’t expect children to sit for long lessons or memorize facts from a worksheet. Instead, their day is filled with opportunities to explore, imagine, and create. We use The Creative Curriculum by Teaching Strategies, a comprehensive, research-based early childhood program that supports development across social-emotional, physical, language & literacy, cognitive, science and the art domains. Through hands-on investigations and individualized instruction incorporating creative expression, we align learning with early learning standards. With Teaching Strategies GOLD, an observation-based assessment tool, teachers track children’s progress, and share the results with families. Instead of using tests, teachers watch and document what children do during everyday activities and play. The tool organizes progress across key areas including social-emotional skills, physical development, language, literacy, math, and more, so teachers can see each child’s strengths, plan next steps for learning, and share progress with families. From a child’s view of the world, they are playing all day. From an adult perspective, we are carefully tracking milestones, goals, and growth. You might see children building towers with blocks, acting out a story in the dramatic play area, painting at an easel, or working... --- - Published: 2025-09-22 - Modified: 2025-12-17 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/difference-between-licensed-home-daycare-services-and-professional-childcare-centers/ - Categories: daycare Choosing the childcare program that works best for your family can be overwhelming. You want nurturing care, opportunities for social-emotional learning, convenient hours, preparation for school in the future and so much more. How is a family to choose? To begin, there are two main types of care: home daycare services and childcare centers. Both take care of children, but they work differently. Let's see what makes each one special. What Is Home Daycare? Home daycare happens in someone's house. A caregiver, with assistants, watches a small group of children who play in regular rooms in the house. The caregiver receives a license from the state. This means they follow rules to keep children safe. Most home daycare services can watch 6-8 children at one time. Home daycare feels like being at a friend's house. Children of different ages play together. Babies might nap while older children play together. What Is a Childcare Center? Childcare centers are designed as early childhood education programs, and often look more like a school than a home. They feature a curriculum appropriate to supporting the learning of young children. Each room is carefully designed for a specific age group. Babies have their own room. Toddlers have another room. And preschool in yet another room. Teachers at centers acquire specialized knowledge about the development and learning of children. They follow strict rules from the state, and a state licensor comes to inspect frequently. Size Differences Matter Home daycare services are small, usually serving 6-8 children... --- - Published: 2025-09-19 - Modified: 2025-12-08 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-daycare-sparks-a-love-for-science-arts-and-culture-early-on/ - Categories: daycare Have you watched three-year-old’s eyes light up when they see a butterfly? Or see their excitement when mixing colors creates something new? At Discovery Village, these magical moments happen every single day. Our daycare services in Tarrytown, NY turn everyday activities into amazing learning adventures that children never forget. Science Made Simple and Fun Children are born scientists. They love to explore, touch, and ask questions about everything they see. At Discovery Village, we encourage scientific curiosity. Children plant seeds and water them every day. Then they watch tiny green plants grow from the soil. Our students mix colors in water and see magic happen. Red and blue make purple. Yellow and red create orange. They learn by doing, not just watching. We take nature walks and collect leaves, rocks, and flowers. Back in class, children sort everything by size and color. Simple tools like magnifying glasses help children see bugs up close. They build with blocks and learn about tall and short. When things fall down, they try again. Art Everywhere, Every Day Every child at Discovery Village is an artist. They use paint, crayons, clay, recyclable objects and so much more to create whatever they imagine. Children don't copy what adults make. They paint what they choose - their families, pets, favorite toys, and imaginative scenes with dinosaurs, superheroes, princesses, and more. Each artistic creation tells a child’s special story.   Discovering Different Cultures The world is full of different people and traditions. At Discovery Village, we explore... --- - Published: 2025-09-15 - Modified: 2025-12-17 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/what-parents-can-do-at-home-to-support-preschool-learning-in-irvington-ny/ - Categories: Preschool Parents in Irvington, NY often ask us what they can do at home to support preschool learning. It’s a question we hear often, and the answer is simpler than most expect. Children don’t need complicated lessons after school. What they need are small, steady habits at home that match what they experience in the classroom. Keep Routines Steady Children feel calmer when they know what comes next. A regular bedtime, meals around the same time, and a predictable flow to the day create comfort. We’ve noticed that children who have these steady rhythms at home often settle into preschool routines more quickly. When life feels less chaotic, they have more energy for play and learning. Read Together Every Day Reading doesn’t have to be long. Ten minutes before bed or after dinner can be enough. We see a difference when children are read to daily. They start telling stories in their own words as their vocabulary expands. Some even begin "reading" aloud to stuffed animals or dolls. Those playful moments are signs that reading is becoming a part of their world. Let Play Do the Work At our preschool in Irvington, NY, play is how learning happens. Building towers with blocks teaches balance and problem-solving. Pretend play builds imagination and cooperation. Art projects let children share feelings and ideas. At home, crayons, puzzles, dress-up clothes, or even cardboard boxes can do the same job. Families are often surprised at how much learning hides inside simple play. Talk About Their Day... --- - Published: 2025-09-11 - Modified: 2025-12-08 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/affordable-daycare-vs-in-home-care-in-tarrytown-ny-which-works-best/ - Categories: daycare When families begin childcare with us in Tarrytown, one of the first questions we hear is, “Should we choose affordable daycare or in-home care? ” It’s a good question. Both can work, but the experience for children and parents is very different. What We Mean by Affordable Daycare When we talk about affordable daycare, we mean licensed care in a center like Discovery Village. While costs tend to be higher than in-home care, there are subsidies available through the Department of Social Services and there are scholarships available through the Childcare Council of Westchester. In affordable daycare, children spend their days in age-appropriate classrooms under the supervision of teachers, following a schedule that includes activities immersing them in learning. What We Mean by In-Home Care The most common forms of in-home care are nannies, babysitters, or small home-based settings. Children stay in a more familiar space, often with fewer other children around. The routines are more flexible, and one-on-one attention is easier, especially for very young children. Some parents like this because it feels like home, following family routines and rules. For infants, this kind of close care can be very comforting. Strengths of Affordable Daycare in Tarrytown In daycare, children experience a curriculum that helps them develop social/emotional, literacy, math, artistic, and motor skills. We see little ones in Tarrytown go from clinging at drop-off to running toward friends with excitement. Parents tell us their children’s vocabulary grows, they excitedly share information about their projects, and talk about classmates... --- - Published: 2025-09-08 - Modified: 2025-12-08 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/importance-of-a-licensed-daycare-center-for-families-in-elmsford-ny/ - Categories: daycare Is it important to seek a licensed daycare for your child? The answer is 'yes'. Since young children are still developing and in a delicate age of so many "firsts", we can't stress enough how important choosing a licensed center is.   Let us share why daycare licensing matters so much for families in Elmsford, NY (or anywhere). What Does a Licensed Daycare Mean for You? A licensed daycare center has been inspected and approved by the recognized state authority. It means the daycare has met strict safety and quality standards that protect your children. At Discovery Village, we are licensed by the New York State Office of Children and Family Services. We go through regular inspections where officials check everything from our playground equipment to our teacher qualifications.   Safety Standards You Can Trust Licensed daycare centers must follow specific rules about everything from child-to-teacher ratios to emergency procedures. These aren't suggestions. They're requirements daycare centers must meet to keep the doors open. Trained and Background-Checked Staff All our teachers go through extensive background checks and must meet education requirements. This means you do not just trust anyone with your child. Every person who works with your kids has been vetted by the state. That's not something you get with unlicensed care, even if the provider seems nice. Health and Nutrition Standards Our licensed daycare center in Elmsford, NY must follow strict guidelines about meal preparation, illness policies, and medication administration. We have protocols for everything from diaper changing... --- - Published: 2025-09-06 - Modified: 2025-12-10 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-to-choose-the-best-toddler-program-for-2-year-olds-in-westchester-ny/ - Categories: Toddler The best toddler program in Westchester, NY or anywhere is one where your child fail-safe, loved, and excited to learn. When selecting a daycare for toddlers, don't look only at fancy facilities, although facilities and the environment in which children learn matter. Pay attention to the people who'll be caring for your child every day.   Here, we are sharing tips to help you find the right toddler care program for your 2-year-old.   Start With Your Gut Feeling When you walk into a daycare, the first thing you need to do is trust your instincts.   Does it feel warm and welcoming?   Are the children happy and engaged?   We've seen parents choose places that looked perfect on paper but didn't feel right when they visited. At our toddler care center in Westchester, NY, we watch parents' faces light up with smiles when they see their toddlers engaged in a science activity, or creating their own artistic masterpieces using treasures they found in nature and recycled materials. The joy as they learn about the world and themselves is palpable. "This feels right" moments are important. Look for Real Learning, Not Just Activities Two-year-old are like sponges. They're ready for so much. And so, it is vitally important to look for toddler programs that blend learning into everything they do. Here, learning occurs through two lenses. From a child’s view of the world they are playing and exploring their interests all day. From an adult’s view of the world,... --- - Published: 2025-09-01 - Modified: 2025-09-08 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/sleepy-hollow-parents-guide-early-childcare-centers-vs-daycares/ - Categories: Childcare What is the difference between daycare and early childhood centers? At Discovery Village Childcare Center and Preschool, we get this question a lot from Sleepy Hollow families looking for care for their children. Let us break it down for you in simple terms so you can choose the best childcare for your child. What is a Regular Daycare? A daycare is a safe place where your children stay while you're at work. Think of it as supervised babysitting with some fun activities. The main goal of a daycare? Keep children safe, fed, and entertained until pickup time. Most daycares in Sleepy Hollow focus on: Basic supervision and safety Simple play activities Meals and nap time Following a daily routine What Makes an Early Childcare Center Different? An early childcare center does everything a daycare does, but it also focuses on learning and development. They are not just caring for your kids – they are actively teaching. At our early childcare center in Sleepy Hollow, we watch 2-year-olds learn Spanish words during snack time. We see 4-year-olds doing hands-on science experiments that make their eyes light up.   This is not just play; it is purposeful learning through play, projects, and exploration. The Learning Difference between Daycare and Early Learning Center Regular daycares might have story time once a day. Early learning centers infuse learning into everything. At Discovery Village we use the Teaching Strategies program, a full research based approach to curriculum design and assessment, applied through play. When your... --- - Published: 2025-08-29 - Modified: 2025-12-17 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/childcare-routines-in-sleepy-hollow-that-make-mornings-easier/ - Categories: Childcare Do mornings in your home feel like a rush? Between waking up sleepy children, making breakfast, packing bags, and getting out the door, mornings can sometimes feel more stressful than they need to be. If you’re starting childcare in Sleepy Hollow, you’re not alone in feeling this way. Many parents tell us mornings are their toughest part of the day. But with a few simple routines, mornings can become calmer, smoother, and even enjoyable. Over the years, we’ve worked with countless families, and these are the tips that have helped them the most. Prepare the Night Before The easiest way to make mornings lighter is to start the routine the evening before. Pack your child’s daycare bag with extra clothes, snacks, and any comfort items. Lay out tomorrow’s outfit, including socks and shoes, so you don’t need to hunt for them when you’re already pressed for time. Even the American Academy of Pediatrics suggests preparing in advance to help children transition more smoothly into daily routines. A few minutes of planning at night can make mornings feel much less rushed. Keep Wake-Ups Consistent Children thrive on predictability. Waking up at the same time every day helps them adjust, and it makes mornings smoother. Even on weekends, sticking close to the same schedule prevents Monday mornings from feeling like a shock. The CDC’s sleep guidelines recommend 10–13 hours of sleep for preschoolers, and regular wake-up times make it easier to meet those needs. Some parents in our Sleepy Hollow community say... --- - Published: 2025-08-27 - Modified: 2025-12-17 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/why-children-need-to-go-to-childcare-in-elmsford/ - Categories: Childcare Whenever new families begin childcare with us in Elmsford, one of the first questions we hear is, “Do kids really need daycare? ” It’s a good question. Some parents worry their child is too young, or that they’ll learn plenty at home. Others just aren’t sure what daycare really adds. We get it. We’ve been asked many times. But over the years, we’ve seen what happens when children spend their days here. And honestly, the growth is more than most parents expect. Learning To Be with Others At home, children don’t always have to share. Their toys belong to them. In daycare, those same toys belong to everyone. That’s not always easy. Waiting for a turn can be hard. Sharing isn’t automatic. We’ve seen the tears, the crossed arms. But then one day it clicks. A child passes the block to a friend without being told. And that moment is huge. Parents in our childcare Elmsford community often tell us they notice it at home too. Suddenly, a child shares with a sibling or says, “You can go first. ” Small things, but important. Finding Independence We also notice independence growing in small, everyday ways. A toddler insists on zipping her coat. A preschooler carefully clears his plate. None of this happens overnight, but bit by bit, children gain confidence. Parents laugh when they tell us about their child suddenly declaring, “I can do it myself! ” That pride is what daycare gives space for. Routines That Comfort Children feel... --- - Published: 2025-08-25 - Modified: 2025-12-08 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-play-based-learning-shapes-early-growth-in-childcare-in-tarrytown/ - Categories: Childcare Have you ever watched a child get lost in play? Maybe they are building a tall tower of blocks, cooking pretend food, or telling funny stories with friends. To us, it may look simple. But for them, it’s serious learning. Children don’t always need books or long lessons. They need to play. At our early childcare center in Tarrytown, play is the heart of everything we do. It is not just about fun. Through play, children learn about the world, about others, and about themselves. What Play-Based Learning Really Means Play-based learning is just learning through play. For example: Building with blocks teaches balance and problem-solving. Pretend play builds imagination and new words. Drawing or painting helps with creativity and hand control. It may look like “just play,” but their minds are busy every single second. Why Playing Matters So Much The first five years of life are very important. A child’s brain grows faster during this time than at any other age. Every song, laugh, and game shapes who they will become. That’s why, at our Discovery Village early childcare center in Tarrytown, teachers guide play in a way that helps children stay curious, try new things, and keep going even when it feels hard. Learning Social and Emotional Skills Think about children playing “house” or “shop. ” They choose roles where one is the parent, one is the child, and one is the shopper. Without even knowing it, they are learning big life lessons like: How to share... --- - Published: 2025-08-23 - Modified: 2025-12-08 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-nursery-school-in-sleepy-hollow-builds-early-social-skills/ - Categories: Preschool When children first step into nursery school, they do more than just learn letters and numbers. They also learn how to be with other children. They learn to share, to listen, and to make friends. For many families, this is one of the biggest reasons to choose Discovery Village as their nursery school in Sleepy Hollow . Learning to Share and Take Turns At home, children may be used to playing with their own toys on their own time. However, our nursery school is a space filled with opportunities to share blocks, art supplies, or a favorite book. Our teachers guide these moments gently, reminding children that waiting for a turn is part of playing together. Little by little, your children discover that sharing isn’t about losing something. It’s about gaining a friend. Building Friendships Through Play Play is the heart of nursery school. From building a tower in the block corner to playing “kitchen” with pretend food, your kids learn how to cooperate, negotiate, and problem-solve together. We’ve seen shy toddlers slowly open up when a classmate invites them to join in a game. Friendship is built on these little things, like a shared project, a laugh, or a smile. Learning to Listen and Express Feelings Playing well isn't the only aspect of social skills. They’re also about learning how to communicate. Nursery school provides a lot of opportunities for children to practice listening and speaking. For example, circle time encourages them to wait their turn, listen to a... --- - Published: 2025-08-21 - Modified: 2025-08-28 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/a-parents-guide-to-finding-the-best-daycare-in-tarrytown/ - Categories: daycare Parents in Tarrytown often ask, “Which daycare in Tarrytown is right for my child? ” It is not an easy decision. You’re trusting someone else with your little one’s early years, and that’s huge. And if you are looking for an educational daycare in Tarrytown, you should take more than infrastructure into consideration when you are enrolling your child. If you are a parent looking for the best daycare center in Tarrytown, here is a guide that will help you make the best decision.   Trust Is At The Core  Leaving your child with others is a great act of trust. You deserve a village - people who will care for your child with the responsibility and attentiveness you would expect in a loving, caring world where childcare extends beyond the immediate family. When you visit an educational daycare in Tarrytown, get a sense of how you are greeted and treated on your tour. Observe interactions between adults and children on the tour as well as the interactions you observe between teachers and children.   Safety Comes First, Always Before you fall in love with a colorful classroom, check the basics. Is the daycare licensed? Are teachers trained in CPR? What’s the child-to-teacher ratio? Is the building secure? A walk around will tell you a lot about that Tarrytown daycare center. Pay Attention to the Curriculum Daycare should be fun, but fun with purpose. The best Tarrytown educational daycares blend play with learning. Ask about their daily schedule. Do they... --- - Published: 2025-08-16 - Modified: 2025-09-01 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/starting-infant-care-in-westchester-tips-to-ease-your-babys-separation-anxiety/ - Categories: Infant Enrolling your baby in an infant care in Westchester can feel like a big step, for both you and your baby. It’s normal for little ones to feel anxious when they’re away from you, and honestly, it’s a sign of a healthy bond. Still, those first drop-offs can tug at your heart. The good news?   There are simple, practical things you can do to make this infant transition to daycare smoother for everyone. Start Small and Build Up If you can, begin with shorter visits to infant care near you. Maybe start with a half day, and you can then gradually increase the time. This gives your baby a chance to get used to new surroundings, voices, and routines. At our infant care, we serve families in Westchester, Tarrytown, Sleepy Hollow, Irvington, Elmsford, and other nearby regions. And we’ve seen that babies who get a gentle introduction to infant care settle in faster and with fewer tears. Create a Consistent Drop-Off Routine Babies love when they know what happens next. It's the unknown that makes them full of tears. When you keep the same drop-off routine each day, it helps them know what to expect.   Your drop-off routine could include: Arriving at the same time each morning Reading a short book together before you leave Giving the goodbye hug and kiss Saying a simple phrase like, “Mommy will be back soon” Keep goodbyes short and reassuring. Lingering too long can actually make separation harder. Bring Comfort Items from... --- - Published: 2025-08-11 - Modified: 2025-08-19 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-a-childcare-can-help-reduce-kids-screen-time/ - Categories: Childcare Screen time is something almost every parent worries about these days. Tablets, phones, and TVs seem to have a way of keeping kids calm, but too much screen time can be a problem.   Here’s the good news: enrolling your little one in quality childcare can make a big difference.   At Discovery Village – a trusted childcare for Sleepy Hollow families, we’ve seen how the right environment can naturally reduce children’s interest in screens.   How Childcare Helps Balance Screen Time for Sleepy Hollow Families  When children spend their day in a structured childcare setting, they’re too busy having fun to think about screens.   In our Sleepy Hollow childcare, we focus on hands-on activities that keep your kids actually engaged, make them curious about real-world experiences through outdoor play games, and spend time with real-life friends.   Our childcare in Sleepy Hollow, NY offers:  Human connection Physical activity Real learning experiences  We design units of exploration focused on children’s interests. While we track children’s academic and social-emotional growth, children experience it all as play. Units have included: space exploration, water, gardening, vehicles, creating our own restaurant, architecture, and so much more. Children in our childcare build with a range of materials including blocks, legos, and our favorite - cardboard boxes. They engage their artistic creativity with clay, paint, materials collected in nature, recyclables and more. Movement is central to our day with a wide range of sports, dance parties, yoga, and walks exploring nature. Central to all we... --- - Published: 2025-08-06 - Modified: 2025-08-29 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/daycare-readiness-checklist-for-tarrytown-parents/ - Categories: daycare Do you want your child to start daycare but feel nervous? Starting daycare in Tarrytown can feel like a big step for both you and your child, and it is.   You may be feeling excited and overwhelmed at the same time. No worries. We’ve guided countless Tarrytown families through this transition over the years.   All you need is a little preparation, and your child will arrive on their first day smiling, curious, and ready to explore.   Before Your Child’s First Day Visit the daycare together before the first day. Meet the teachers, see the classroom, and explore the play areas to help your child feel more comfortable. It also gives them familiar faces and spaces to look forward to. Schedule a one to one meeting with your child’s teachers to discuss your child’s routine care needs, and goals you have for your child.   At home, talk about daycare in a positive way. Tell stories about making friends, playing outside, or learning something new.   Some of our families like to play “pretend daycare” at home: packing a small bag, saying goodbye, and playing together in a “classroom” space. Children love knowing what to expect. Adjust your child’s sleep schedule about a week before daycare begins. Having the same bedtime and wake-up times as the daycare schedule will make mornings easier for both you and your child. What to Pack for the First Day A labeled backpack is the easiest way for teachers to keep track of... --- - Published: 2021-04-22 - Modified: 2021-04-30 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-to-raise-and-adventurous-eater/ - Categories: Childcare, daycare, Infant, Preschool, Toddler Do you want to raise an adventurous eater? Do you have any picky eaters in your family? We are happy to share wisdom from Kelly Gumpel, RD, CDN, CDCES. Kelly is a Registered Dietitian and Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist. She's also a mom of one of Discovery Village's preschoolers and a lover of all things food! Kelly generously volunteered her time, leading a conversation with Discovery Village families about how to raise an adventurous eater. We are happy to share some of what we learned. On Meal and Snack Times:When you can, eat together as a family. Make meal times pleasant. Avoid distractions while eating. Schedule meal and snack times rather than eating at different times each day. On Introducing New Foods:Expose children to new foods patiently. It can take up to 20 tries for a child to eat a new food. At meals provide at least one food your child likes. Your child may only eat that one food. In time your child will try other foods. Introduce new foods on the plate with a food your child already knows and likes. Get creative with various presentations of new foods. For example, on different days offer carrot sticks, baby carrots, cooked carrots, or carrots with cinnamon. Get playful with new foods. Arrange food on the plate with a smiley face or in other fun arrangements. Consider it a win if your child explores a new food the first time; sticking fingers into it or moving it around... --- - Published: 2021-04-07 - Modified: 2025-08-19 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/early-childhood-education-during-covid/ - Categories: Childcare, COVID-19, daycare Early Childhood Education During COVID and BeyondThere are so many stories of early childhood education during COVID to celebrate. Many daycares never closed. Many others found ways to maintain relationships and engagement with preschoolers, toddlers, and even infants remotely. Discovery Village did both. We remained open for our essential workers, while providing remote learning for children whose families were sheltering in place. Something surprising happened in the process. We not only navigated through COVID. We've gotten better! Early Childhood Education During COVID: Programs That Never Closed It was almost exactly one year ago that I first sensed we were experiencing the beginning of something new for early childhood education. There were only six children present, ranging in age from 18 months to five. Children saw new possibilities for a farm they had built out of a cardboard box. One child took the road they had used to bring supplies to the farm. He turned it into his very own "highway to happiness. " Any person could drive on the road. At the end they would find arrive anyplace they wanted to vacation, real or imagined. Two children took the farm itself and redesigned it. They built a carwash. Now cars would be super clean before driving down the highway to happiness. They found a way to funnel real water into the carwash to wash the cars. Three children, younger toddlers, were also interested in animals, cars, and water. They took individual bins filled with soapy water and gave baths to... --- - Published: 2021-03-12 - Modified: 2025-08-19 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/covid-protocols-and-wellness/ - Categories: COVID-19 Focus on COVID protocols and wellness has now been central in our lives for an entire year. Masks, social distancing, hand washing, and disinfecting have been our constant backdrop, the rhythm through which we experience life. From the start, Discovery Village combined COVID protocols and wellness. We've been open throughout the pandemic. In the beginning, before New York State Department of Health issued much instruction, we combined intuition and intention. We incorporated safety protocols seamlessly, in a way that has been playful, calm and as stress free as possible.  COVID constraints have led to creativity They strengthened and improved the quality of the care and learning we offer. Perhaps The Biggest Difference: At Discovery Village: Parents can enter the school! We are among the very few childcare centers that have kept our doors open to families. Parents and other family members dropping off or picking up are masked, take and log their temperatures, complete a health screening, social distance from all but their own children, and remain only briefly. All of this follows COVID protocols as outlined by the New York State Department of Health. Yet, most childcare centers and preschools implemented curbside or at door drop off and pick up. There were a few days at the very beginning of the pandemic, and a few weeks during the challenging winter months, that we tried at door drop off and pick up. The increase in stress for children, parents, and teachers did not warrant the minimal increase in safety. When... --- - Published: 2021-02-09 - Modified: 2025-08-19 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/the-best-infant-daycare/ - Categories: Infant Infant Daycare to Spark Creativity and Imagination Infant daycare offers families peace of mind while they are at work. High quality programs, focusing on meaningful play-based learning in the early years, offer even more. Through exploration and sensory experiences children open their minds to wonder and possibility, setting a foundation for a lifetime of exploration and accomplishment. It's also so much fun! Discovery Village is pleased to share activities to spark your imagination. Be playful! Get messy! Have fun! Take any color paint you like. Squeeze it out on a piece of paper. Cover it with saran wrap. Leave it with your infant to smash it up. The sensory experiences central in quality infant daycare programs will spark children's imaginations, and develop their motor skills. This is not only an infant daycare favorite. It is also great activity for busy families. Get some cooking done while your baby delights in creative fun. Add to the learning with conversation, developing your baby's language skills. Explore textures with your curious, creative baby. Go on a treasure hunt throughout your home. Find objects with all different shapes and textures. Pour paint on a plate. Grab some paper. Let your infant create works of arts experimenting with the various textures of objects you have found. The connection of activities, from treasure hunt to art project develop into larger explorations in quality infant daycare programs. Have fun with them at home! Grap the inside of a paper towel roll. Wrap it in bubble paper. Dip... --- - Published: 2021-01-19 - Modified: 2025-12-08 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/daycare-activities-to-enjoy-at-home/ - Categories: daycare Daycare Activities to bring home - during quarantine and any other time Daycare activities at Discovery Village include the arts, sciences, language and literacy, math, physical education, and so much more. When children can't be in school, there is so much families can offer at home. During a quarantine of our toddler program, our teachers created learning activities for families to bring Discovery Village home. While these activities are presented within a structure like school, you can play with them. Feel very welcome to embrace the joy of the possibility of less structured days at home. Learning can happen while cooking, doing laundry, as well as while becoming immersed in play. Of the activities, see what resonates for you child. We invite you to make it all as low-stress as possible. We are so happy for you to be able to enjoy these activities any time Toddler Activities from Miss Gigi and Miss Maya Toddler Activities from Miss Orda --- - Published: 2021-01-11 - Modified: 2025-08-19 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/discovery-village-world-class-daycare-for-families-in-sleepy-hollow-new-york/ - Categories: daycare Like Sleepy Hollow itself, Discovery Village, offers the care of a community-minded village with the culture and creativity of an urban hub. Families looking for daycare near Sleepy Hollow can find all they seek at Discovery Village. Conveniently located on White Plains Road, within Sleepy Hollow’s very own 10591 zip code, families in Sleepy Hollow benefit from a premier daycare center right in their very own neighborhood. What is it that distinguishes Discovery Village as a world class daycare? First and foremost, our young Discovery Villagers, between the ages of 6 weeks and 5 years, are immersed in the care of a village, the creativity of an art studio, and the discovery of a science lab. In all of our programs; infant, toddler, and preschool, careful attention is given to nurturing the natural curiosity and creativity of our young villagers. Art projects and science investigations abound, all developed responsively based on the ever emerging interests of our children. Without compromising on the development of language, literacy, and math skills vital for Kindergarten readiness, Discovery Village seamlessly infuses learning in academic areas within creative, playful projects and explorations designed to reflect students’ interests. In the list of vital considerations for busy families seeking daycare near Sleepy Hollow, Discovery Village has it all. Convenience Full Day, Year Round Care: Open 12 months a year, from 7 AM to 6 PM, Discovery Village provides full day, year round daycare near Sleepy Hollow. Great Location: Located on White Plains Road, Discovery Village is very... --- - Published: 2020-12-29 - Modified: 2025-08-19 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-to-choose-a-daycare/ - Categories: daycare You’ve made the decision. You, and all of your child’s grownups (parents, grandparents, and others) are unavailable, by choice or necessity to dedicate to full time childcare. Or perhaps you, a family member, or even a nanny or babysitter is caring for your child. Still, you want to give your child the gift of the learning and socialization available in quality daycare centers and preschools. You are officially daycare shopping. What do you do to decide how to choose a daycare? You’ll likely be looking at practical considerations, quality, and “right fit for you”. The list below may help you design a list of questions to ask when you call and visit programs. We are so happy to offer this guide to help as you determine how to choose a daycare that is right for your child and family. Practical Considerations Convenience Do you need full Day, year round care? Do you need a full day program, with hours extending beyond 9-5? Do you need flexibility? For example, do you need care every day of the week, or just certain days? Do you want a morning only program? Find a Great Location near you. Google daycare near me and see what comes up for you. Think about your commuting routine. Affordability Is the program within your price range? Safety Does the daycare’s COVID Health and Safety Protocol incorporate both the mandatory and recommended health and safety guidelines for childcare programs in New York State? Do they do so in a... --- - Published: 2020-09-02 - Modified: 2021-02-11 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/daycare-during-pandemic/ - Categories: Childcare, COVID-19, daycare, Preschool Have choices about daycare during pandemic left you with a range of emotions you can’t quite put into words? Have you had the unusual sensation of being in a strange new world you never could have imagined? As K-12 schools decide whether to serve students through remote, hybrid, or in person learning, many child care centers have remained open. In the early months of pandemic early childhood stood as an essential service for essential workers. Now, as summer shifts to fall and a new school year begins, many more families are returning. Some have had children in daycare during pandemic, while others have recently returned. Some are considering returning, while others are quite certain they want their children to be cared for at home. Regardless of your choices, you may well be experiencing a wide range of emotions about sending your child to daycare during pandemic. I invite you to check in on how you are feeling about your children leaving quarantine. Like me, it may not be only how you are feeling, but who you are feeling like as we navigate this strange new reality we all face. Providing daycare and learning throughout the pandemic, I’ve felt all of the above. It is as if overnight we have been transported to a new world, without ever having actually leaving home. Things are both different, and yet the same, as we have adjusted to our new reality. Through it all we have focused on implementing health protocols in a playful... --- - Published: 2020-03-26 - Modified: 2025-08-18 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-to-prepare-your-child-for-preschool-near-elmsford-new-york/ - Categories: Blogs, Preschool - Tags: Discovery Village, Discovery Village Childcare, Discovery Village Childcare & Preschool, Discovery Village Preschool, New York, NY, Preschool, Preschool Elmsford, Preschool Near Elmsford Elmsford is a small community in New York filled with many young families. Everywhere you go, you can see loving parents and their children strolling around the neighborhood. Many children are nervous about leaving their parents when they start their first day in preschool. This is entirely normal, and strong preschool programs, focused on relationships, support children through the transition. Why Do I Need to Prepare Them for Preschool? Preparing your child for preschool is important to help your child feel secure and safe. By preparing for the big day, you can gradually help them understand what preschool is and what to expect when they get there. How Can I Do This? There are a lot of things you can do to prepare your child for preschool. Let us take a look at a few ways: Visit Your Kids’ Preschool Before school starts, children benefit from getting a feel of the place they will be for preschool. Show them the playground, the classrooms, and the other areas. Let them meet their teacher and maybe some of their classmates. Helping them to see where they will be can help alleviate anxiety about being away from home. While they are off playing, you could talk to the preschool teachers. Having a good relationship with the teachers can help your child be successful. Working together toward one goal will further that success. Role Play About Preschool Try having a role-playing session with your children in the setting of a classroom. Pretend to be... --- - Published: 2020-03-23 - Modified: 2026-02-24 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/rainbow-art-ideas/ - Categories: Infant In these uncertain times, as we all try the best we can to settle into a new, uncharted normal, what I've been searching for most is hope. Although moments of despair and fear hit hard, hope is also ever present. Rainbow art ideas for all ages have helped. While physically distanced from the families of Discovery Village, the childcare and preschool I run in Tarrytown, NY, I've begun sending home activity ideas for infants, toddlers, preschoolers (some of which even their older siblings and their grownups can enjoy). Rainbow art ideas have been among our favorites. While as of now our commitment is to reopen next Monday, March 30th, with the blessing of New York State, to do what we are able to care for the children of essential workers, the majority of us will be physically distant for an as of yet undetermined amount of time. To connect to others with hope, I now plan to share these activity ideas more broadly, on this blog, as many families seek ways to keep their youngest children safe and healthy, while also joyous, active, engaged, and hopeful. As a first post, I offer five ways to be creative and hopeful with rainbows. These are merely possibilities to prompt your thinking and imagination! You can come up with many more! I invite you to share your hopeful rainbows on your property for neighbors taking solitary walks, and on social media for friends who are physically apart, yet seeking connection. 1. Chalk Rainbows... --- - Published: 2020-03-08 - Modified: 2021-02-18 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/reggio-inspired-learning-standing-for-equity-and-justice/ - Categories: Blogs - Tags: Character Education, Early Childhood Learning, Reggio-Emilia What is it that distinguishes Reggio-inspired learning? What is it that distinguishes Reggio-inspired learning? An array of lists from Reggio-inspired schools across the globe distill the program into a relatively small number of key elements. These typically include: Student Interest: Learning stems from children’s interests and curiosity. Relationships as Key to Learning: Learning emerges through relationships with others including peers, teachers, and other members of the community. Self expression and Creativity: Reggio has a notion of “100 languages” or the many ways children express their ideas, feelings, and creativity. Children deserve experiences engaging them in a wide range of materials and modes of creativity. Project-Based Learning: Learning occurs through short and long terms projects and teachers create the conditions for children to become engaged in these projects The Physical Environment As a Central Teaching Element: The classroom is considered the “third teacher” (parents are first and school educators are second). As such, the physical environment of schools is a critical contributor to learning. The Flexible Use of Time: Children are given time to become deeply immersed in activities of interest to them. Documentation and Sharing: A record is kept of the process of learning for children to review and see their own progress, as well as to share with others. Parents as Partners: Parents are respected as the primary influences on children’s learning and are actively engaged in life at school. While I love each and every one of these key elements of Reggio-inspired learning, there is another central principle, rarely highlighted as a core to the... --- - Published: 2020-03-06 - Modified: 2025-08-18 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/quality-child-care-near-elmsford-ny/ - Categories: Blogs - Tags: Child Care Elmsford, Child Care near me, Childcare Elmsford ny, Childcare Provider Elmsford, Childcare Provider in Elmsford, Childcare Tips, Discovery Village, Discovery Village Childcare, Discovery Village Childcare & Preschool, Discovery Village Daycare, Discovery Village Preschool Just 24 miles northeast of Manhattan, the 1.1-square-mile Elmsford is one of six villages in the town of Greenburgh. Are you looking for quality child care near Elmsford New York. Just 24 miles northeast of Manhattan, the 1. 1-square-mile Elmsford is one of six villages in the town of Greenburgh. The village, though, is quiet; its roughly 4,700 residents live on tree-lined streets in neighborhoods sprinkled with parks that are full of children. Is My Child Safe in a Child Care Center? There are many Child Care Centers to keep your child while you are at work. Discovery Village is unique. We offer the care of a village, the creativity of an art studio, and the discovery of a science lab. Children are immersed in quality learning and care. We have a state of the art keyless entry system, ensuring that parents can enter during center hours to see their children, while we keep those we do not know out. Families living and work can find at Discovery Village the best of child care near Elmsford. Why Should I Leave my Child at Discovery Village? At Discovery Village, children take part in designing classrooms into communities where they pursue their interests through projects and play. These communities incorporate fun, creativity and social interaction. Early education can build the foundation of your child’s future. Here are a few benefits in enrolling your child: Child Care Centers Can Help Develop Social and Emotional Maturity When you leave your children at Discovery Village, you give them the chance to meet new people. They will learn to share and mature while working together... --- - Published: 2020-02-18 - Modified: 2025-08-19 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/why-daycare-learning-activities-is-important-to-your-childs-development/ - Categories: Blogs - Tags: Child’s Development, Daycare Center in Tarrytown, Daycare Center Tarrytown, Daycare Learning Activities, Daycare near me, Daycare Tarrytown ny, Discovery Village, Discovery Village Childcare, Discovery Village Childcare & Preschool, Discovery Village Daycare, Discovery Village Preschool We often hear or see in the media that children are not getting enough physical activity these days. Quality daycare learning activities set a lifelong foundation for well-being and success. We often hear or see in the media that children are not getting enough physical activity these days. Some spend most of their time playing computer games and watching YouTube videos instead of enjoying the beautiful weather outside. But what does being “physically active” mean for infants, toddlers and preschoolers? Daycare learning activities nurture children's development. For young children, physical activity does not mean lifting weights in the gym and running for 15 minutes on the treadmill. It is about active play and having the opportunity to move and explore their environment. A child’s physical activity will vary depending on their age and development. For instance, infants can move around through supervised, floor-based play during the day. Tummy time can also help them strengthen their muscles needed to crawl and walk. While toddlers still need supervision they are able to walk or even run as you chase them around your home. Aside from physical activities, it is also essential to develop children's cognitive and social skills. Quality daycare learning activities powerfully support that development. If you are a parent who is about to enter the workforce and wants their child to learn and grow while you are away, it is time to consider enrolling your little one in a daycare center – and there is no need to feel guilty about it. Daycare does not only give parents the time they need to provide for the family; it... --- - Published: 2020-02-05 - Modified: 2021-02-25 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/childcare-tips-how-to-keep-your-child-with-food-allergies-safe/ - Categories: Blogs - Tags: Child Care near me, Child Care Sleepy Hollow, Childcare Provider in Sleepy Hollow, Childcare Provider Seepy Hollow, Childcare Sleepy Hollow ny, Childcare Tips, Discovery Village, Discovery Village Childcare, Discovery Village Childcare & Preschool, Discovery Village Daycare, Discovery Village Preschool Kids are energetic, unpredictable and curious. Whether they are under the care of a small in-home provider, a large daycare center or even in their own home, countless dangers are around every corner. However, one of the most common risks for children is food allergies.   Food allergies are on the rise and have been for some time. It can be frightening to see a child’s face swell and realize that they are having an allergic reaction. The reaction is a result of the body’s immune system thinks that a particular food product is harmful. When someone has a food allergy, the body reacts by releasing chemicals, including histamine, when exposed to that food. These chemicals trigger allergic symptoms which range from mild to life-threatening.   You have spent their early years protecting your child from allergy-causing foods. However, as they grow and become more sociable, you will realize how challenging it is to keep your child away from food allergies at school or camp. After all, you can’t be with your child 24/7.   If your child does have food allergies, the idea of sending them to childcare centers can make you feel scared and nervous. Therefore, it is essential to choose a child care facility that knows how to deal with food allergies and can recognize a reaction since some children don’t know how to explain what is happening to them.   What foods often cause allergic reactions? A child can be allergic to any food. However, the... --- - Published: 2020-01-22 - Modified: 2025-08-19 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-your-kids-can-survive-the-first-day-of-preschool-in-white-plains/ - Categories: Blogs - Tags: Discovery Village, Discovery Village Childcare, Discovery Village Childcare & Preschool, Discovery Village Daycare, Discovery Village Preschool, Preschool in White Plains, Preschool White Plains ny Time is a luxury we cannot buy. In the blink of an eye, your sweet babies grow up to be little humans who are all ready to begin their preschool journey. You have already done a thorough research and chosen the perfect preschool in White Plains for your little one. You also made sure that they went to bed early last night so that they would wake up happy and with plenty of time to get ready. Their backpack is filled with school supplies and is waiting by the door while the first-day-school outfit is hanging in the closet ready to go for the big day. It’s your child’s first day of preschool in White Plains, and it is time to begin a journey that will last for almost two decades! As parents, how can you make this a hassle-free, memorable day? Your kid’s first day of preschool only happens once. It is a huge leap and an exciting milestone for both you and your little one. While stepping into preschool for the first time comes with new and beautiful experiences for your child, it can also be scary for some children. First Day Struggles of Both Parents and Child Starting school for the first time is an overwhelming, yet exciting milestone. Teachers understand the struggles of some families as their kids embark on this new journey. While parents look forward to the independence, discoveries, and friendships that await their future scholars, enrolling them in school means taking on different... --- - Published: 2020-01-13 - Modified: 2021-03-02 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/play-imagination-and-rocket-science-creativity-in-early-childhood/ - Categories: Blogs - Tags: Discovery Village Childcare and Preschool, Early Childhood Learning, nature-based learning, project-based educational approach, project-based learning, school-wide enrichment programming, STEAM In the early years of the Apollo Project, NASA commissioned George Land, a scientist specializing in the enhancement of creative performance, to design a creativity test for engineering and rocket scientist job applicants. The test, which measured “divergent thinking”, challenged applicants to look at a problem or object and come up with multiple solutions or different ways to use the object. After identifying truly gifted engineers and rocket scientists for NASA using this creativity test, Land wondered how children might fare with his creativity test, and how the results might change as these children aged. So began a fascinating longitudinal study on creativity. In 1968, Land administered the same test he had given to aspiring NASA engineers and rocket scientists to 1600 five-year-olds. He re-tested the same children when they were 10 and again when they were 15. In 1985, Land later tested 280,000 adults. How many individuals at each age scored in the highly creative range? 5 year olds: 98% 10 year olds: 30% 15 year olds: 12% Adults: 2% Those numbers are astounding. While 98% of five-year-olds scored at the “genius” level on a creativity test, only 2% of adults achieved the same results. Land’s conclusion: Non-creative behavior is learned. Or, as Pablo Picasso put it: “Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up. ” I first read Land’s study while serving as principal of an elementary school. Considering myself a forward-thinking educator, I offered my students project-based learning,... --- - Published: 2020-01-02 - Modified: 2025-08-19 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/quality-daycare-near-white-plains/ - Categories: Blogs - Tags: Child Care near me, Child Care Program, Child Care White Plains, Childcare Provider in White Plains, Childcare Provider White Plains, Childcare White Plains ny, Discovery Village, Discovery Village Childcare, Discovery Village Childcare & Preschool, Discovery Village Daycare, Discovery Village Preschool The early years of a child’s life are critical. Children absorb more information than we realize like sponges. They develop through their interactions with the world as they discover things for themselves. As a parent, you make dozens of decisions to support your child’s health, growth, and development each day. For instance, one of the most crucial choices that working parents have to make is choosing the most qualified place to care for their children while they are away. Many families search for quality daycare near White Plains. Since their kids will spend a significant amount of time in these environments, it’s understandable why parents put so much time and effort into researching before making their decision. When evaluating daycare near White Plains, it is essential to consider their curriculum. Why? Because it sets the tone for every activity in the center. If you want your little one to pick up foundational skills before formal school starts, crayons and flashcards may not be the answer for your energetic child. Both a parent and kid-friendly solution to this issue is structured play. But can a child learn while they are playing and having fun? What is a structured play? The good thing about the structured play is that it does not have to take up more precious time than is necessary. Structured playtime, also known as "play with a purpose", combines an enjoyable activity with a learning objective. It can take on different forms -- physical or mental -- which keep... --- - Published: 2019-12-22 - Modified: 2025-08-19 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/what-are-the-benefits-of-daycare-in-sleepy-hollow/ - Categories: Blogs - Tags: Daycare Center in Sleepy Hollow, Daycare Center Sleepy Hollow, Daycare Center Sleepy Hollow ny, Daycare near me, Daycare Sleepy Hollow ny, Discovery Village, Discovery Village Childcare & Preschool, Discovery Village Daycare, Discovery Village Preschool In today’s busy life when most parents in Sleepy Hollow are professionals, quality childcare is a must. While some have family members who can care for their children, daycare centers are an excellent alternative, providing a safe, warm and structured environment for kids. Daycare is not only an excellent solution for parents; it also benefits children in more ways than one. So if you are going back to work part or full-time, but you are not sure what your options are, it’s time to learn more about the daycare center in Sleepy Hollow. 5 Benefits of Taking Your Child to a Daycare There are many proven benefits of enrolling your child in daycare. So if you are feeling guilty about your decision, stop apologizing for this acceptable and promising parenting choice. Here are five significant benefits of enrolling your kids in a quality daycare program. More room to grow A quality daycare can contribute to a child’s success in the long run, especially when they have teachers who are capable of handling behavioral problems. Moreover, the learning environment provides opportunities for kids to learn and grow while having fun. Helps kids try healthy foods Based on a study from the Journal of Nutrition and Dietetics, children in daycare are more willing to try healthy meals when daycare teachers sit with them and consume the same food. Getting your little one to have small tastes of nutritious food is crucial for improving familiarity with different foods. When you try to introduce... --- - Published: 2019-12-09 - Modified: 2025-08-19 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-to-get-your-child-ready-for-preschool-in-sleepy-hollow/ - Categories: Blogs - Tags: Discovery Village, Discovery Village Childcare, Discovery Village Childcare & Preschool, Discovery Village Daycare, Discovery Village Preschool, Preschool in Sleepy Hollow, Preschool near me, Preschool Sleepy Hollow ny Each day is a new adventure for a young child in Sleepy Hollow. Soon enough parents will need to start thinking about what preschool they wish to send their child to. It is a big decision to make, but it does not need to be a difficult one. Starting preschool is the beginning of a new chapter in a child’s development. You may ask yourself, “Is my child ready to start preschool? ” Even if your child has previously attended a toddler program, preschool in Sleepy Hollow is a big step. They will make new friends, gain independence as well as confidence and learn new skills along the way. Although this new undertaking will set your little one on a path to later success in school, it is not always easy. Both you and your child might have mixed emotions of excitement, worry and even sadness as infancy disappears. Emotionally preparing your child – and yourself as well – will take intentional effort. But with a little preparation, you can make it a smooth transition and a confidence-building experience for both you and your child. Change is Inevitable: Preschool Adventure into the Horizon We live in an ever changing world and the pace of change has never been more rapid than it is today. It can be overwhelming at times, so many parents will shelter their children. If you are ready to enroll your child in preschool in Sleepy Hollow, you may be approaching this upcoming change with conflicting emotions.... --- - Published: 2019-12-09 - Modified: 2021-03-02 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/its-not-small-talk-the-wonder-of-weather-in-early-childhood-learning/ - Categories: Blogs - Tags: art, Early Childhood Learning, project-based educational approach, Reggio-Inspired Learning, Reggio-Inspired Learning and Care, science Noticing, wondering, sensing, and experiencing are all characteristics of the curious and the creative. They are also at the very core of Reggio-inspired early childhood learning, a project-based educational approach in which learning stems from student interest. Among the countless topics that can ignite children’s inquisitive nature, the weather, with its seasonal, daily, even hourly changes has near limitless potential in early childhood learning. Connecting art and science, while holding the potential to lay the foundation for a life-long commitment to care for our planet, investigations stemming from weather, make for profoundly meaningful learning. At Discovery Village, which opened this past July, we did not initially imagine how central the weather would be to life in our village. Committed to learning stemming from children’s interests, we watched, attentive to children’s conversations and self-initiated activities. With large windows in each classroom facing the outdoors, and outdoor play and nature walks twice daily, we quickly noticed our students’ conversation, wonder, and explorations into nature, the weather, and over time the changing seasons. Summer Creating Our Own Rain Clouds Family trips to pools and beaches, boating and fishing, rainstorms and puddles, plentiful water play, and love for the song “Baby Shark” opened up endless conversation and curiosity this past summer about water. We watched out our windows at the summer rain showers, jumped in puddles when the rain abated, and splashed around through water play outdoors and sensory bins inside. Investigations stemming from children’s interests included ways people explore the sea, using boats,... --- - Published: 2019-12-01 - Modified: 2021-03-01 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/relationships-experiences-and-values-in-early-childhood-education/ - Categories: Blogs - Tags: Discovery Village Childcare & Preschool, Reggio Approach Learning, Reggio Emilia approach, Reggio Emilia Schools, Reggio-Inspired Care, Reggio-Inspired Learning, Reggio-Inspired Learning and Care The first five years of life; a time of wonder, imagination, creativity and discovery, are marked by incredibly rapid development of both mind and body. Through play, interaction with others, and exploration of the world around them, children reveal their emerging personalities and identities. While a child’s home is the most central of environments in which to learn and explore, children benefit enormously from widening the circle of individuals with whom they interact. Through relationships with adults and peers; learning by doing as part of playful experiences that emerge from children’s interests; and a focus on values in early childhood education, children set lifelong foundations from which to learn, develop, and thrive. In some places throughout history and around the world, children have been organically embraced in communities of caring relationships, engaging experiences, and meaningful values. However, more often than not, parents in contemporary times are tasked with the challenge of actively putting together their own community, their own village, so vital to nurturing children’s healthy development. Many turn to childcare and learning centers, not only out of a need for their children to be cared for while they are at work, but out of a commitment to providing an exemplary environment for their children. Embracing the Reggio Emilia approach to learning, Discovery Village is actively designed to be the village children and families deserve, grounded in these three central pillars: relationships, experiences, and values in early childhood education. Relationships We consider relationships to be the fundatmental, organizing strategy of... --- - Published: 2019-11-21 - Modified: 2021-03-01 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-a-daycare-center-in-tarrytown-ny-benefits-both-parents-and-kids/ - Categories: Blogs - Tags: Daycare Center in Tarrytown, Daycare Center Tarrytown, Daycare near me, Daycare Tarrytown ny, Discovery Village, Discovery Village Childcare, Discovery Village Childcare & Preschool, Discovery Village Daycare, Discovery Village Preschool Every experience and event during the formative years of your child’s life shape the foundation for later learning and their relationships with others. In a daycare center, you can expect your child to have plenty of exploratory time, free-play and play-based learning. Some even provide some structure learning activities to hone the children’s academic skills and knowledge, including solving numbers, reading and writing. Working parents in Tarrytown, NY, need and want accessible, high-quality, and affordable daycare centers for care, supervision, and learning that their children deserve. But with the plethora of options in town, the juggle is real in finding the right place to care for them. Daycare doesn’t just help kids; they help parents too! Many parents agonize and feel guilty about enrolling their child in a daycare. But if you take a look at what a daycare center has to offer, that guilt is not necessary. Whether you are working or a stay-at-home parent, sending your kid to a daycare facility benefits your child, but also you. It gives you the time you need to fulfill your corporate and personal duties while your child socializes and learns in a caring environment. Some parents also need a break from their little one sometimes, so there is no shame in sending your child to a daycare center for a few hours a day. For instance, moms have one of the toughest jobs in the world: working for a living, taking care of their child and performing home duties. It can... --- - Published: 2019-11-18 - Modified: 2021-03-01 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/celebration-as-self-expression-in-early-childhood-education/ - Categories: Blogs - Tags: Celebrations of Caring, Celebrations of Community, Celebrations of Creativity, Celebrations of Discovery, Children Self-Expression, Discovery Village Daycare, Early Childhood Learning Villages are places of warmth and nurturing; extensions of family. They are also places of celebrations and commemorations. Since ancient times, communities have joined together to express their deepest ideals and emotions through holidays - festivals marking the seasons, historical events, and core values. Celebrations remain central to the self-expression of children in early childhood education programs. At Discovery Village, designed to offer a village environment of nurturing and creativity to children, celebrations are very frequent, typically occurring once a week. They are not just “add ons”, but are among the most central ways that we playfully embed in our program our three pillars - Relationships, Experiences, and Values. (REV - REV it Up with Discovery Village! ) Celebrations are central to learning in exemplary early childhood education programs. “Celebrations not only enrich our program, they are core to our understanding of ourselves as a village” explains Anna Hobbs, Assistant Director, who has both inspired and organized our robust calendar of events. “Festivals create opportunities for children to experience our ideals and values as a community in ways that are exciting, meaningful and so much fun. ”  Some of the Discovery Village core values celebrated at our festivals include creativity, caring, community, and discovery. Celebrations of Creativity Some celebrations of creativity are whimsical like  National Play-Doh Day and Talk Like a Pirate Day. Others are more substantive investigations into the arts such as National Color Day (which was actually an interdisciplinary celebration of art and science) and Pablo Picasso’s Birthday.... --- - Published: 2019-11-08 - Modified: 2025-08-19 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-to-get-your-child-eat-healthy-with-a-childcare-provider-in-sleepy-hollow/ - Categories: Blogs - Tags: Child Care near me, Child Care Sleepy Hollow, Childcare Provider in Sleepy Hollow, Childcare Provider Seepy Hollow, Childcare Sleepy Hollow ny, Discovery Village, Discovery Village Childcare, Discovery Village Childcare & Preschool, Discovery Village Daycare, Discovery Village Preschool Kids either love or loathe veggies – there is usually no in-between. Most parents experience an uphill battle with feeding their little ones due to peer pressure and TV commercials. Once you factor in their hectic schedules it is no wonder that their kids’ diet includes takeout food and meals with little nutritional value.   Food is a vital part of life, especially for kids – a time to nourish their bodies and minds. But what’s the harm a burger or fried chicken? And what’s wrong with keeping a pack of chips or even crackers in the cabinet? While these choices might seem harmless, it turns out that poor eating habits tend to stick with kids as they grow up. Thus, it is essential to teach your kids how to make healthy food choices at an early age. If you’re a busy parent with loads of tasks on your plate, childcare is a fact of life — and this is where a childcare provider in Sleepy Hollow comes into play. When parents choose trusted people to care for their kids in their absence, they are valuing their child's early development. Nutrition should be as vital to parents since your kid may never outgrow poor eating habits. How Healthy and Nutritious Food Benefits Your Kids It is challenging to feed children nutritious food. Then if you have a picky eater on your hands that challenge becomes even greater. They tend to refuse foods based on color or texture that doesn’t seem... --- - Published: 2019-11-03 - Modified: 2025-08-18 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/reggio-inspired-learning-and-care/ - Categories: Blogs - Tags: Discovery Village Childcare & Preschool, Reggio Approach Learning, Reggio-Inspired Care, Reggio-Inspired Learning, Reggio-Inspired Learning and Care In the days and weeks following the end of World War II, the area of Reggio Emilia in Northern Italy was left in ruins. The combination of military action against resistance to the Nazis and allied bombings had devastated the region. Amidst the rubble, on land contributed by a local farmer, using materials from bombed-out buildings, a small group of parents set out to build a preschool for their children. Funding came from the sale of an abandoned tank, three trucks, and a few horses remaining from the war. The parents, having just emerged from the horrors of World War II, envisioned a school that would prepare their children to stand strong against oppression, injustice, and inequality. Having heard rumors of the preschool being built out of the rubble, a young educator named Loris Malaguzzi, himself strongly shaped by growing up under fascist rule, set out on his bicyle to see what was happening. Inspired, he commited the rest of his life to working with families in the region to create a school, then several schools, then a municipal network of schools, and over the years an international network of schools. Core to the Reggio approach is the belief that children form their personalities during their early years and possess “a hundred languages”, or a multitude of ways to express their personalities, ideas, feelings, and creativity. These “languages” include painting, storytelling, movement, dramatic play, and so much more. Teachers work with children to plan both long and short term projects... --- - Published: 2019-10-30 - Modified: 2025-08-19 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/why-preschool-matters-for-children-in-tarrytown-ny/ - Categories: Blogs - Tags: Discovery Village, Discovery Village Childcare, Discovery Village Childcare & Preschool, Discovery Village Daycare, Discovery Village Preschool, Preschool near me, Preschool Tarrytown ny Although some parents consider kindergarten as a stepping stone for their child’s education, the early years of their lives are critical in the long run. Many parents would agree that the first years of their child’s life seem to pass in the blink of an eye. Before they knew it, they are already thinking of enrolling their kids in preschool. However, choosing the right preschool for your child is not a simple task. Some parents tend to lose sleep over finding an environment where their children can learn and grow. With all the daycares and preschools to choose from in Tarrytown, NY, it can be downright overwhelming. A preschool is an exciting place for children to learn the ABCs and 123s, but there is much more that happens during these early years. As parents, the thought of sending your kid to preschool, into a new environment, is both nerve-wracking and heart-wrenching. However, it is in this warm and secure setting where children develop crucial skills, interact with others and learn through play time that nurtures innate curiosities. So how do the children from Tarrytown, NY, benefit from a high-quality preschool program? What is a High-Quality Preschool Program? The young mind is wonderfully malleable. It can develop new habits with relative ease. For young learners, every experience and encounter is a unique learning opportunity. In a high-quality preschool children learn numbers, shapes and letters. It is the first time they become part of a structured learning environment and large group learning.... --- - Published: 2019-10-17 - Modified: 2025-08-18 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/how-to-choose-a-childcare-center-in-tarrytown-ny/ - Categories: Blogs - Tags: Child Care near me, Child Care Tarrytown ny, Childcare Tarrytown ny, Discovery Village, Discovery Village Childcare, Discovery Village Childcare & Preschool, Discovery Village Daycare, Discovery Village Preschool With favorable geography and climate, Tarrytown is indeed one of the best places to live in New York. In addition to its growing economy that caters to many employment opportunities among its villagers, the town also sets a high standard when it comes to education. For parents who are seeking an ideal place to raise their children, Tarrytown is an excellent place to consider as it stands toe-to-toe with other cities that prioritize education. While giving precedence to middle schools, the town believes it is still essential to look after children in their early years. With many childcare centers emerging around Tarrytown, busy parents find it challenging to choose the right childcare service provider. Each of them hopes to select a childcare center that offers a rich and fun-filled experience for their kids.   What’s the Deal with Early Childcare Services? Childcare and early childhood education play a significant role in an individual’s development. The first years of one’s life are the foundation or the building-block of their future. While the opportunity for a parent to entrust their child to a childcare center so they can work is a wonderful reason in itself, these places serve a lot more than that which makes them an investment.   Early childcare centers offer a safe learning environment for young children. They aim to develop a child’s emotional, social and cognitive skills. Sharing with others and following instructions are some of the values that can be learned in these settings, which cannot always... --- --- ## Pages - Published: 2025-09-01 - Modified: 2025-09-01 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/sitemap/ Pages Home About Us Our Approach Programs Discovery Village Blog Contact Us About Us Welcome from our CEO and Director Mission, Vision, Pillars, Core Values Top 10 Reasons Parents Choose Us Testimonials Careers At Discovery Village Our Approach Our Unique Approach Our Curriculum Nutrition & Exercise Frequently Asked Questions Programs Infant Program Toddler Program Preschool Program Summer at Discovery Village Early Childhood Learning Center Finding the Best Day Care Near Me Discovery Village Blog Blog --- - Published: 2021-04-01 - Modified: 2026-04-02 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/early-childhood-education-jobs/ Early Childhood Jobs of Impact Early childhood education jobs are among the most meaningful positions available. As an early childhood educator, you make an enduring impact during the foundational first five years of a child’s life. With Discovery Village’s play and project based approach, you’ll have so much fun! Get silly with infants! Dance with toddlers! Be creative with preschoolers! Discovery Village combines the care of a village, the creativity of an art studio, and the discovery of a science lab – not just for our children, but for our faculty and staff as well. At Discovery Village you’ll have the best of both worlds – respect and trust to design learning experiences in your class, and tons of support in the process. Benefits of Working at Discovery Village Paid Education Including Fully Funded Associate, Bachelors, Masters, and PhD's In Early Childhood And Fully Funded CDA's (Childhood Development Associate Certification) Generous Paid Vacation Time Health, Dental, And Vision Insurance Plans Retirement Plan Flexible Spending Plans for Medical and Childcare Costs Free Gym Membership Supply Budget For Your Classroom Employee Awards Program What our teachers love about working at Discovery Village The Kids And Families The Understanding, Supportive Administration A friendly and loving staff that cares for one another A Vibrant Place Where Everyday Is Exciting A Colorful, Creative, And Unique Environment The Joy In Seeing The Pride In The Kids As They Take Leadership Of Their Own Learning The Opportunity To Learn As Teachers Making a Difference Teachers at Discovery... --- - Published: 2021-02-26 - Modified: 2026-04-02 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/day-camp-near-tarrytown/ Summer at Discovery Village Are you looking for a day camp near Tarrytown for your infant, toddler, or preschooler? Discovery Village, a year round program, welcomes infants, toddlers, and preschoolers for the summer months. Offering the care of a village, the creativity of an art studio, and the discovery of a science lab, our summer program offers a unique approach to day camp for young children. Explorations follow children's interests, and focus on art and science. Spending substantial time outdoors, we immerse ourselves in the joys of warm weather, while still engaged in quality play-based learning. Children delight in the joys of friendship and fun. We are led by our own curiosity and imagination. From a nurturing day camp near Tarrytown, we travel anywhere our imaginations can take us. We've transformed our classrooms into under the sea wonderlands and built cloud observatories. We've planted gardens, and created murals of the beach. Science comes alive as we conduct a wide range of experiments. We ask questions, observe, hypothesize, and seek understanding. We stretch our artistic muscles using a wide range of materials to express themselves. Friendships are nurtured and we have so much fun. Without even realizing it, we are preparing to thrive in Kindergarten and beyond. Sports and games are highlights of our summer. We develop our physical fitness, and motor skills while having fun with a wide range of sports. We build village spirit with lots of celebrations and friendly competitions.  Each day we get outside for obstacle courses,... --- - Published: 2021-02-08 - Modified: 2025-09-09 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/finding-the-best-daycare-near-irvington-ny/ Daycare Near Irvington, New York The village of Irvington, New York delights residents and visitors alike with restaurants, parks, hiking trails, theater, and a very popular farmers' market. Among the areas attractions for families is world class daycare near Irvington, New York. With a Tarrytown address, Discovery Village is officially situated within the area serving the Irvington Union Free School District. Serving children from 6 weeks to five years, the program offers a unique Reggio-inspired approach that immerses children in creativity, discovery, and prepares them well for success in Kindergarten and beyond. At Discovery Village children learn through relationships and experiences, stemming from their curiosity, interest, and sense of wonder and imagination. They are immersed in values, emphasizing care. Embraced in the care of a village, children engage in activities promoting independence and self-care, care for others, care for community, and care for our planet. They delight in the connection of a village, with the experiences of a center of culture At Discovery Village children are immersed in learning and care in one of three programs: the infant program, the toddler program, and our preschool. Embracing the rapid learning of the vital first five years of life, our curriculum offers experiences that spark the language, cognitive, and social skills of our young villagers. Children enjoy nutritious, child-friendly food prepared on site by our very own chef. Breakfast, lunch, and two snacks are included in the cost of tuition. A wide range of enrichment activities spark children's creativity and imagination. Frequently... --- - Published: 2021-01-21 - Modified: 2026-04-02 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/finding-the-best-daycare-near-me/ The Search for the Best Daycare Near Me Among the many great joys we experience at Discovery Village is speaking with parents asking, "how can I find the very best daycare near me? "Sometimes families are awaiting the birth or adoption of a child. Other times they are returning to work. Still other times, they are moving into a new home. Finding a partner to care for their child while they work is among the most significant choices a family will make. Discovery Village prides ourselves on helping you determine if becoming one of our villagers is right for your child and your family. Offering both virtual and in person tours, you'll have the chance to meet our director and other administrators, and teachers. You'll see activities in which children are immersed. Come and see our infant, toddler, and preschool classrooms. Take a look at our private playground. See our kitchen and the nutritious meals prepared fresh on-site and included in the cost of tuition. Families in Westchester seeking the convenience of daycare close to home, need not settle on quality. Discovery Village offers a unique approach to Reggio-inspired learning with our own village flair. Projects and play, responsive to children's interests, delight children while incorporating social-emotional and academic skills vital in setting a foundation for success and well-being in kindergarten and beyond. Questions to Ask on Your Search for Daycare Each family will have different must haves and good to haves in deciding on the daycare that will be... --- - Published: 2021-01-04 - Modified: 2025-08-16 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/world-class-daycare-near-elmsford/ Experience The Best Daycare Near Elmsford Your children begin learning at birth. As parents, you are their first teachers. You have the joy of guiding them as they grow and discover the wonders and possibilities of the world. In this vital task, you deserve not only daycare, but a village, to provide the care, nurturing, creativity, and discovery that will lay a foundation for lifelong well-being and success. At Discovery Village, families in the village of Elmsford, New York, can experience world class learning and care very close to home. Discovery Village provides the very highest quality daycare near Elmsford. Early childhood learning plays a crucial role in a child’s development. It serves as an avenue for little ones to share, follow instructions, and interact with other children. Daycare centers are more than a place that you take your children to be cared for while you are working. They provide your children with the foundational tools they will need to succeed in the future. The Juggle is Real for Busy ParentsFinding the right environment for your child is among the most important decisions you need to make. As parents, you need to look for quality daycare where your children will receive care, nurturing, and engaging learning while you are at work. Some of the ways a high-quality daycare center can keep your child happy and help them succeed in school and in their lives outside of school include:Daycare centers nurture a child's curiosity and offer activities that fuel the imagination.... --- - Published: 2020-12-30 - Modified: 2025-09-01 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/quality-day-care-for-families-near-sleepy-hollow-new-york/ Like Sleepy Hollow itself, Discovery Village, offers the care of a community-minded village with the culture and creativity of an urban hub. Conveniently located on White Plains Road, within Sleepy Hollow’s very own 10591 zip code, families in Sleepy Hollow benefit from a premier day care near Sleepy Hollow. What is it that distinguishes Discovery Village as a world class day care near Sleepy Hollow? First and foremost, our young Discovery Villagers, between the ages of 6 weeks and 5 years, are immersed in the care of a village, the creativity of an art studio, and the discovery of a science lab. In all of our programs; infant, toddler, and preschool, careful attention is given to nurturing the natural curiosity and creativity of our young villagers. Art projects and science investigations abound, all developed responsively based on the ever emerging interests of our children. Without compromising on the development of language, literacy, and math skills vital for Kindergarten readiness, Discovery Village seamlessly infuses learning in academic areas within creative, playful projects and explorations designed to reflect students’ interests. All of this is located close to home, in a premier day care near Sleepy Hollow. In the list of vital considerations for busy Sleepy Hollow families when choosing childcare, Discovery Village has it all Convenience Full Day, Year Round Care: Open 12 months a year, from 7 AM to 6 PM, Discovery Village provides full day, year round learning and care. Great Location: Located on White Plains Road, Discovery Village is... --- - Published: 2020-12-15 - Modified: 2020-12-15 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/thank-you-newsletter/ Thank you for signing up for our newsletter! --- - Published: 2020-12-15 - Modified: 2020-12-15 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/thank-you-schedule-a-tour/ Thank you for inquiring about scheduling a tour. We will be in touch shortly! --- - Published: 2020-12-15 - Modified: 2020-12-15 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/thank-you-contact-us/ Thank you for contacting us. We will be in touch with you shortly! --- - Published: 2020-12-10 - Modified: 2022-09-14 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/newsletters/ Previous Newsletters --- - Published: 2020-11-30 - Modified: 2025-12-17 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/discovery-village-blog/ Blog Childcare Routines in Sleepy Hollow That Make Mornings Do mornings in your home feelRead More Why Children Need to Go to Childcare in Whenever new families begin childcare withRead More How Play-Based Learning Shapes Early Growth in Childcare Have you ever watched a childRead More How Nursery School in Sleepy Hollow Builds Early When children first step into nurseryRead More A Parent’s Guide to Finding the Best Daycare Parents in Tarrytown often ask, “WhichRead More Starting Infant Care in Westchester? Tips to Ease Enrolling your baby in an infantRead More How a Childcare Can Help Reduce Kids’ Screen Screen time is something almost everyRead More Daycare Readiness Checklist for Tarrytown Parents Do you want your child toRead More How to Raise an Adventurous Eater Do you want to raise anRead More COVID Made Us Better! Early Childhood Education During COVID andRead More COVID Protocols and Wellness: Physical and Emotional Focus on COVID protocols and wellnessRead More Creativity with Infants Infant Daycare to Spark Creativity andRead More Load More --- - Published: 2020-11-12 - Modified: 2026-04-02 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/day-care-activities-learning-promoting-wellness/ Nutrition, exercise, and conversations about promoting physical and emotional health and well-being are central to the Discovery Village Experience. Day care activities and learning feature:Healthy Meals & SnacksDaily Indoor & Outdoor ExerciseFine & Gross Motor Skill BuildingLessons on Health & HygieneEXERCISE AND HEALTHY FOOD CHOICESChildren at Discovery Village are physically active. Opportunity for both indoor and outdoor active play occurs daily at our day care and early childhood learning center. We have additional enrichment programming such as soccer and yoga. Attention is given in our exemplary day care activities to motor skills, fun, and development of lifelong positive approach to physical fitness. Each day at Discovery Village, our children enjoy a healthy breakfast, lunch, and two snacks. Our menus are designed by a licensed dietician, and prepared fresh on-site daily by our own chef. There is a four week meal schedule with different options each day. We review the menu monthly and update to tailor to providing child-friendly meals of high nutritious value. Meals and Snacks are served with Milk (whole milk for children 1-2 years old; and fat free or low fat milk from children 2-5 years old). SEE OUR MENUS Breakfast Warm cinnamon oatmeal served with fresh apple slices and Milk Scrambled eggs rolled into a warm whole wheat tortilla, served with fresh blueberries, raspberries, and Milk French Toast served with syrup, fresh Blackberries and Milk Pancakes served with syrup, no sugar Apple Sauce, and Milk Toasted English Muffins with cream cheese/butter served with fresh Kiwi and Milk... --- - Published: 2020-11-12 - Modified: 2025-08-13 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/finding-a-daycare-in-westchester-ny/schedule-a-tour-5/ Discovery Village Childcare & Preschool The best way to explore the possibilities of Discovery Village for your child is to schedule a tour of our village. At Discovery Village, we understand how important it is for parents to have peace of mind when they go to work and leave their children for the day. Believing that it truly takes a village to raise a child, we are proud to be the village that parents trust day in and day out. --- - Published: 2020-11-12 - Modified: 2026-04-02 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/tarrytown-daycare-discovery-village/ What hours and days are you open? Discovery Village Tarrytown is open year round from 7 AM –6 PM. Parents can choose between five day, three day, or two day schedules. There is also an option to choose a school day (8:30-3:30 schedule) instead of a full time schedule. Contact us for more information on tuition options for our various schedules. Can parents visit the center during the day? We have an open door policy for parents at this premier Tarrytown daycare. Each parent has keyless entry to the center through the kisi app, and can enter at any time the center is open to see how their child is doing. Do parents receive updates on their children during the day? Parents receive updates and photos during the day through the Brightwheel app. Does Discovery Village have video surveillance cameras? Safety and security is vital to us. Discovery Village has video surveillance cameras in every room and in the halls facing all outer doors. Do you provide healthy meals and snacks? Two nutritious, freshly prepared meals and an afternoon snack are provided daily and are included in the cost of tuition. These meals are prepared on site in our own kitchen, with the care of home-cooked meals. What is a typical day like for Toddlers and Preschool children? Learning at Discovery Village Tarrytown daycare follows children’s interests, while engaging children in activities to nurture and develop academic, physical, and social-emotional skills. Note: The schedule varies by class; specific activities are... --- - Published: 2020-11-12 - Modified: 2025-08-11 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/finding-a-daycare-in-westchester-ny/schedule-a-tour-3/ Discovery Village Childcare & Preschool The best way to explore the possibilities of Discovery Village for your child is to schedule a tour of our village. At Discovery Village, we understand how important it is for parents to have peace of mind when they go to work and leave their children for the day. Believing that it truly takes a village to raise a child, we are proud to be the village that parents trust day in and day out. --- - Published: 2020-11-12 - Modified: 2026-04-02 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/a-unique-premier-daycare-in-westchester-county-ny/ Welcome from our CEO and Director Mission, Vision, Pillars, Core Values Top 10 Reasons Parents Choose Us Testimonials --- - Published: 2020-11-12 - Modified: 2026-04-02 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/programs/ Daycare Program Childcare Program Preschool Program Early Childhood Learning Center --- - Published: 2020-11-12 - Modified: 2026-04-02 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/our-approach/ Our Unique Approach Our Curriculum Nutrition & Excercise Discovery Village – Unique Tarrytown Daycare QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS --- - Published: 2020-11-12 - Modified: 2026-04-02 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/finding-a-daycare-in-westchester-ny/ Address: 580 White Plains RoadTarrytown, NY 10591Phone: (914) 631-1009Email: villagers@discoveryvillagecenter. comHours of OperationMonday 7:00AM – 5:00PMTuesday 7:00AM – 5:00PMWednesday 7:00AM – 5:00PMThursday 7:00AM – 5:00PMFriday 7:00AM – 5:00PM Discovery Village Tours The best way to explore the possibilities of Discovery Village Childcare Center and Preschool for your child is to schedule a tour of our village. We offer virtual tours via Zoom or Facetime and on-site tours (with visitors wearing masks and social distancing. )On your tour you’ll be able to see our village and meet our villagers – teachers, administrative team, and children. You will be able to see the classroom your child would enter into, as well as classrooms your child will age into as your child grows. Hear about the quality of child care and the exceptional learning offered at Discovery Village Childcare Center and Preschool. See our kitchen and freshly prepared nutritious food children receive for breakfast, lunch, and snack. Take a walk to our playground, where children visit every day for outdoor play. In addition to our tour, you’ll have time for an individual conversation with our CEO and/or our director. Learn more about our program and ask any questions that you have. Come see the possibilities of our Village Experience for your child! Privacy Policy: We use personal contact information supplied to communicate more effectively. We do not disclose any of your personal information, except as permitted by law, other than to our affiliates, such as third-party website hosts which are contracted by the... --- - Published: 2020-11-12 - Modified: 2026-04-02 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/welcome-to-our-premier-daycare-from-our-ceo-and-director/ IT IS A JOY TO WELCOME YOU TO DISCOVERY VILLAGE! For more than twenty years, serving as an educational leader and raising my own two children, I dreamed of a place like Discovery Village. In July of 2019, I was blessed with the opportunity to open this magnificent center. The journey preparing to begin Discovery Village was filled with meaningful experiences. I studied – completing a Ph. D in education. I taught and led in schools serving students of all ages - preschool, elementary, middle, and high schools as well as teaching doctoral students in education. For students of all ages, I implemented innovative approaches, emphasizing project based learning and character education. Throughout the years that I led schools, I marveled at the creativity and focus on wellbeing of exemplary early childhood education programs. As a working mom, I experienced personally the necessity of having a village to support me as I lived through the many celebrations and tribulations of guiding my own two children to adulthood. Serving as an educational leader, I became a teacher of teachers. I co-authored the book The Coach Approach to School Leadership: Leading Teachers to Higher Levels of Effectiveness, published by the prestigious Association of Supervision and Curriculum Development. I am also the author of Havens of Hope: Ideas for Redesigning Education from the COVID-19 Pandemic. Havens of Hope traces the experiences of Discovery Village and 24 other programs that not only navigated through the challenges of 2020-2021, but got better. I serve as... --- - Published: 2020-11-12 - Modified: 2026-04-02 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/infant-daycare-discovery-village-childcare-center-preschool/ Discovery Village immerses children in the best daycare has to offer. From the very youngest ages, children at Discovery Village are given opportunities to connect with teachers and peers, explore, create, and discovery. Nurturing strong bonds is at the core of all we do. We create an environment in which children are safe to explore their own emotions, build confidence, and develop social-emotional skills. Sensory activities invite our babies to explore a wide range of materials and textures. Our youngest babies spend lots of time on the floor, moving and developing their motor skills. Older mobile infants move even more, engaging in games that develop their motor skills, while supporting teamwork and a spirited sense of fun. Children are immersed in language, in both English and Spanish, developing language and communications skills. In the infant rooms for our youngest babies, the environment is entirely responsive to the children. They sleep when tired, eat when hungry, and participate in play and projects the rest of the day. Our older infants follow a schedule similar to that in our toddlers program. They have breakfast, lunch, and snack together, and nap at the same time as one another. they enjoy a spirited circle time with song and movement. They join together for play and projects both indoors and outdoors. The first five years of life are vital to setting a foundation for lifelong well-being and success. At Discovery Village, children experience embracing care while having loads of fun. Art, science, language, sensory exploration,... --- - Published: 2020-11-12 - Modified: 2026-04-02 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/our-unique-approach-reggio-inspired/ REGGIO-INSPIRED Tailored To the Challenges & Possibilities of Our Times The wider the range of possibilities we offer children, the more intense will be their motivations and the richer their experiences. Loris Malaguzzi founder of the Reggio Emilia Municipal Education Project Discovery Village offers experiential, hands-on learning uniquely adapted to the times in which we live. Contemporary and classic research and experience combine in our playful and highly effective approach. Exploration, creativity, and discovery stem from student interests in an environment emphasizing inclusive relationships. At Discovery Village our young villagers develop the skills vital for success and well-being in kindergarten and beyond. While we embrace the highly creative Reggio-inspired approach to learning, we have imagined the approach anew to meet the needs and demands of our own times, emphasizing ways children can nurture their own well-being as well as the well-being of others. With a multi-cultural community, we nurture belonging and the celebration of all our children’s and family’s cultures. OUR REGGIO HERITAGE We remain proud of our Reggio-inspired heritage. While the majority of Reggio-inspired schools emphasize their innovative, hands-on approaches to learning, and we do as well, we highlight values based learning even more. The founding story of Reggio has always inspired us. Parents in Reggio-Emilia Italy, an area of northern Italy that had been very active in the resistance, spent the days immediately following World War II building for the future. From the rubble of bombed out buildings, on land donated by a local farmer, with funds from... --- - Published: 2020-11-12 - Modified: 2026-04-02 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/ Welcome to DISCOVERY VILLAGE A Unique, Quality Childcare Center and Preschool DISCOVERY VILLAGE IS UNIQUE! The care of a village, creativity of an art studio, and discovery of a science lab await children at Discovery Village. Serving children from six weeks to five years, Discovery Village is a premier Childcare Center and Preschool. We provide high quality full-time, year-round childcare and learning, promoting well-being for children and their families now and well into the future. Classic and contemporary research and experience come alive in our playful approach. Academic, social emotional, physical, and character development is embedded in play and projects stemming from children’s wonder and curiosity. We enhance learning with quality enrichment including Spanish, Sign Language, Art, Science, and so much more. As a result of our thoughtful approach, children are prepared for success and well-being in Kindergarten and beyond. Book a Tour Discovery Village is inspired by impactful educational philosophies of the 20th century – Montessori, Waldorf, and especially Reggio. Building from those approaches, Discovery Village designs anew what is possible in a childcare center. Focusing on our children's well-being, we cultivate the social-emotional, cognitive, physical, and creative skills they need to thrive both right now, as well as in kindergarten and beyond. Discovery Village is licensed by the New York State Office of Children and Family Services. We are a member of the Child Care Council of Westchester. Discovery Village's Three Pillars: ‘R‘ELATIONSHIPS, ‘E‘XPERIENCES, ‘V‘ALUES REV it up with Discovery Village! Relationships I DON’T THINK ONE PARENT CAN... --- - Published: 2020-11-12 - Modified: 2026-04-02 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/quality-childcare-grounded-in-relationships-experiences-and-values/ Vision Discovery Village Childcare Center and Preschool offers the care of a village, the creativity of an art studio, and the discovery of a science lab, embracing children from 6 weeks to 5 years in high quality childcare and learning. Mission At Discovery Village our young villagers are immersed in quality care and learning. Our child-centered approach is thoughtfully designed to nurture the significant neural and physical development of the vital first five years of life. Learning at Discovery Village stems from children’s sense of wonder and curiosity. Academic and social-emotional skills embedded in all that we do. At Discovery Village, we offer our own unique village flair to “Reggio-inspired” learning, an innovative, experiential educational approach. Reggio-inspired learning is grounded in caring relationships, creative self-expression, and a deep commitment to preparing children to care for themselves and others. Children at Discovery Village are playfully engaged in exploration and creativity, empowering them to experience both joy and a confident capacity to face life's challenges. Children will leave Discovery Village grounded in kindness, and ready for Kindergarten. We commit to being a haven of hope for our young villagers in a world in need of healing, yet also filled with wonder and possibility. Core Values Discovery Village’s core values are:Caring, Connecting, Creating, and ContributingGrounded in Well-BeingChildren participate in experiences developing the social-emotional skills, inner resources, and qualities of character vital to well-being and to making a positive contribution in the lives of others, their communities, and the world. The result is high... --- - Published: 2020-11-12 - Modified: 2026-04-02 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/top-10-reasons-parents-choose-discovery-village-childcare-and-preschool/ Exemplary, Highly Skilled Educators offer high quality learning and care in our infant, toddler, and preschool programs. Many of our teachers and administrators have advanced degrees and certifications. This includes an on-site CEO/owner who has Ph. D in Education, is a published author, and teaches doctoral students of education at Northeastern University. We offer substantial opportunities for professional learning, sponsoring our assistant teachers to gain their lead teacher certification. A world-class research based curriculum including hands-on learning activities stemming from children’s interests and integrating all subjects. This includes literacy, math, art, science, cultural studies & social emotional learning, all with our own unique village flair. Bilingual learning in our preschool and toddler programs provides children with opportunity to speak in Spanish and learn Sign Language. Flexible schedules for familiesSocial-emotional learning and character building are central to our infant, toddler, and preschool programs. Children are immersed in a focus on care: self-care, care for others, care for community, and care for our world. Safety and security is central to our approach. Video surveillance cameras and secure keyless entry offer state of the art security. We train our entire staff in CPR and First Aid, and many of our teachers and administrators have MAT (medication administration training) certification. Nutritious & delicious meals prepared on site with home cooked care by our very own chef are included in the cost of day care and preschool tuition. Age appropriate outdoor and indoor play spaces for daily physical educationWith the Brightwheel app you will receive... --- - Published: 2020-11-12 - Modified: 2026-04-02 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/best-childcare-program/ Toddlers at Discovery Village are immersed in a world of wonder, friendship, and discovery. From the moment the enter the toddler classrooms, children from 18 months to three years experience the best childcare has to offer. When children enter in the morning they are greeted with a range of choices for play and exploration. They eat breakfast together and then enjoy our spirited morning circle. Song and laughter permeates the center. Through music and movement, language and math, Spanish and sign language children stretch their thinking and imaginations. Lunch and nap offer a break in the day for socialization and rest. The afternoon again immerses children in the best childcare activities for play and project based exploration. There is outdoor time and more projects and play. Activities stem from children's interest and imagination. Through the play, a foundation is set for a lifetime of wellbeing and success. WHY CHOOSE DISCOVERY VILLAGE AS YOUR TRUSTED CHILD CARE CENTER? Childcare centers are important for working parents and their kids. Choosing the best childcare center is crucial. Why trust Discovery Village for your child’s welfare? Discovery Village provides excellent care from trusted, highly trained educators looking out for the welfare and development of your child. Your child will learn while experiencing comfort and security with us. We offer quality early childhood learning through play and projects, so your child will both have fun and will also be very well prepared for kindergarten. Our staff are highly-equipped with knowledge of early childhood learning and... --- - Published: 2020-11-12 - Modified: 2026-04-02 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/the-best-day-care-discovery-village/ I want to express strong gratitude for Discovery Village and their hard work and love. During these past months, having the support of Discovery Village and their staff has been amazing. It is great knowing that I can put my son in a safe, loving, nurturing environment. They have shown such empathetic and strong leadership in ensuring the center stays open while allowing parents to suspend enrollment if they are uncomfortable with attendance. My son is flourishing in their care. Every time I pick him up, he is happy and engaged. I receive beautifully curated and edited photos each day. They are of such high quality, I feel like we got in a built-in professional photo shoot! Discovery Village also sends home ideas for age appropriate activities; I love learning their curriculum. Ms. Esmerida has been so loving and careful with my son. For example, she printed his name tags for some bottles where the marker was running thin, and she added a cute emoji to his name. I also love that she encourages his independence. I read in the notes that she lets him feed himself, and several times when I’ve picked him up, she’s been helping him practice standing. These extra details and effort are very much appreciated. From COVID to protests, the past few months have not been easy for all of us, and it is a blessing to have had Discovery Village. I want to raise my son to be a kind and independent human, and... --- - Published: 2020-11-12 - Modified: 2026-04-02 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/best-early-childhood-education-program/ How a child sees the world and others is established during the significant early years. Experiencing the best early childhood education has to offer, children at Discovery Village are immersed in care, creativity, and discovery. Reasons Why Early Learning is ImportantThe early years in a child’s life are the underpinning of all that is to come. Rapid brain development occurs during the first five years, and learning experiences provided to nurture and enhance that development are essential to long term success. These experiences include much more than just learning fundamental skills. The best early childhood education programs cater to the development of the whole child, including cognitive, social, emotional, and physical needs. While every parent has an essential role in this stage of their children’s development, great early learning centers provide teaching approaches that enhance a child’s learning capacity in ways most parents are not equipped or trained to foster. Discovery Village as the Best Early Learning CenterYour child’s well-being and learning depend in part on selecting a strong early learning center. Finding the right environment for your child can make a massive difference in the way your child feels about socializing and learning later in life. At Discovery Village, we understand that you have a lot of choices for where your child begins a formal education. We are committed to earning your trust and providing you with the quality your child deserves. At Discovery Village, we guarantee that:Children get a top-notch education and the care they deserve. We believe... --- - Published: 2020-11-12 - Modified: 2026-04-02 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/programs/best-preschool-program/ A Time for Creativity and Wonder The best preschool experiences lay a foundation for benefits that will last a lifetime. The first five years of life are an incredible time for learning. As children reach the age of preschool, become ready for so much. Increasingly observant, they notice, wonder, and make creative connections that help shape the ways they understand and interact with the world. With the support of a superior preschool program, so much becomes possible. Children learn, explore, create, and discover in the present, while developing academic and social-emotional skills vital to success in kindergarten, elementary school, and beyond. Benefits of the Best Preschool Experiences Discovery Village offers opportunity for children to unleash their innate curiosity and creativity. Offering meaningful learning experiences through play, children develop foundational skills in literacy, math, science, and cultural studies. They express themselves through the arts, and develop physical and motor skills. All of this occurs in the context of both engagement with others and in gaining understanding of themselves as unique individuals. At Discovery Village we have long believed that the very best education, from birth through graduate school, occurs in the early years. The joyous wonder and stretching of the imagination is the basis of achievement in numerous fields in the arts, sciences, and numerous professions. Learning at Discovery Village stems from children's interests. They inquire, observe, experiment and create. In the process they strengthen a wide range of skills including academic and social-emotional. They gain self-awareness as well as understanding... --- - Published: 2020-11-12 - Modified: 2026-04-02 - URL: https://discoveryvillagecenter.com/early-childhood-education-our-curriculum/ Our curriculum is central to what makes Discovery Village unique. Created onsite by our own leadership team and teachers and constantly updated, we begin with children’s sense of wonder and curiosity. From children’s interests we design activities that incorporate skill building preparing children for Kindergarten and beyond. Language and communication skills, phonics, pre-writing, math, the arts and sciences, physical education and nutrition, Spanish and Sign Language, social-emotional skills and so much more is incorporated within playful experiences. Time outdoors is an integral part of our program. We emphasize learning by doing, through play as well as projects in which each child has a unique role, while contributing to group creations. Children are given choice and teachers design and redesign based on children’s interests, questions, and ideas. INFANTS – The First Year Our youngest villagers are embraced in nurturing relationships with teachers through which they develop a strong foundation for life. They participate in playful activities that are thoughtfully designed to develop sensory, spatial, social/emotional, language, communication, and creative skills. Age appropriate art and science activities are central to our early childhood education program. Lots of outdoor time is included each day. The schedule and activities in the infant program is entirely responsive to children’s needs. Eating, nap and play time follow each child’s natural schedule, and is coordinated with schedules parents set at home. WOBBLERS AND WALKERS – 12-18 MONTHS As children’s communication and motor skills improve, they are able to become even more immersed in activities that promote self-expression.... --- ---