PreK

Research shows that children who have a high-quality pre-K experience thrive in elementary school and are more likely to graduate from high school and college. In high-quality preK, children learn by playing, exploring, and developing relationships with teachers and peers. Pre-K teachers set up classrooms so children can use toys and materials, work in small groups, and become more independent throughout the year. Pre-K is a time when children learn to play together, share and take turns, and use their words to describe their thoughts and feelings. Children build, pretend, draw, and play indoors and outdoors using a wide variety of toys and other materials. They learn to ask questions and explore new ideas. PreK programs help build the foundation for success in school, at home, and in life. 2 All pre-K programs, including NYCDOE District Schools, Pre-K Centers, New York City Early Education Centers (NYCEECs), and Charter Schools, are held to the same standards outlined in the Early Childhood Framework for Quality.