We are delighted to share the exciting news of the launch of the Pre-K program at BWL for fall 2025!

With a rich history spanning over a century in nurturing young minds, our school stands as a shining example of excellence in education. Our Pre-K program is thoughtfully designed to cater to the specific developmental needs of our youngest learners, aiming to ignite a sense of personal discovery and foster independence right from the start of their educational journeys.

Program Overview

We embrace the guiding principle of "Know, Connect, Challenge," that serves as the cornerstone of our approach. We are dedicated to understanding each child's unique qualities and interests and fostering a sense of belonging. Our mission extends beyond loving them for who they are; we aim to empower them to explore, grow, and excel through tailored challenges and gentle encouragement.

Our curriculum promotes independence and self-esteem, stimulates curiosity and creativity, and instills a lifelong love of learning. Through a warm and encouraging atmosphere, our devoted educators ensure every child feels seen, cherished, and excited about their journey of self-discovery and growth.

LEARN MORE ABOUT BWL ADMISSIONs
and apply

Program Snapshot:

Five-day, full-day program

8:30 a.m.–2:45 p.m., with the option of an extended enrichment program until
5:00 p.m.

$42,500 annual tuition*

Students entering Pre-K must turn four by October 15 of the school year for which they are applying.

Highly experienced and qualified teachers
Curriculum designed to focus on the whole child
Unique learning opportunities, including exploring our on-campus Hydroponic and Aquaponic Farms
Weekly enrichment schedule including music and movement, art, physical education, world languages, and library time
Participation in school traditions and many opportunities to be connected to the greater school community

*Please note that financial aid is not available for Pre-K.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE BWL
LOWER SCHOOL CURRICULUM

Early Foundations for Lifelong Learning

At BWL, we recognize that Pre-K is a crucial stage when children begin to develop the essential skills for lifelong learning. School is fun, and learning is exciting when literacy, math, and more meet creativity, connection, and unlimited imagination.

A Joyful Journey in Language Arts
Our program immerses students in rich language experiences, allowing them to discover the joy of reading, writing, speaking, and listening. We nurture their phonological awareness as they begin to hear, recognize, and engage with the sounds in spoken language. This early exposure to language through daily real-alouds, songs, and dramatic play builds a solid foundation for future literacy.

Shaping the Mind for Math Mastery
Our young learners are introduced to the fundamental concepts of mathematics. They explore basic numbers by counting objects, recognizing numerals, and understanding simple shapes and patterns. Hands-on materials like blocks, counting bears, and number lines are used to make abstract concepts concrete. We incorporate everyday experiences to connect math to real-life situations. Activities such as setting a table, comparing sizes of toys, or measuring ingredients for a simple recipe encourage students to apply their math skills in practical contexts.

Emerging literacy skills and mathematics are complemented by instruction in STEAM, library, physical education, music, world language, and visual and performing arts.

Unique Aspects of the BWL Program

Our Pre-K students are part of the BWL community, affording them exclusive learning opportunities at one of the only coed Pre-K–12 schools on the Upper East Side.

Our balanced approach offers strong academics plus play, exploration, and experiential learning.
STEAM activities spur curiosity and creativity, giving students practical applications for learning.
Performing and visual arts engage the mind in new ways, encouraging creativity and expression.

EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING

The hands-on approach of experiential learning is integrated into daily activities to foster growth and curiosity, allowing children to explore and engage in new ways. Pre-K students will work with our Hydroponic and Aquaponic Farms, learning sustainable agriculture, developing a sense of environmental stewardship, and fostering a connection with nature, helping to shape their understanding and appreciation of the world around them.

DISCOVERIES THROUGH STEAM

The integration of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) activities spurs curiosity and creativity leading to brilliant discoveries! Our vibrant Makerspace invites students to unleash their imaginations, experiment with ideas, and bring their inventions to life. These engaging activities inspire young minds to ask questions, develop critical thinking skills, and cultivate a passion for learning.

EXPRESSION THROUGH THE ARTS

Theater classes take students on imaginative journeys where storytelling, songs, and creative movement combine to ignite creativity and enhance developmental skills. The captivating melodies of our World Music program transport children on a musical exploration of other cultures, offering an insight into the rich tapestry of global musical traditions. Young minds develop a sense of curiosity and creativity a deep appreciation for diverse cultures.

Focus on the Whole Child

We recognize that children’s holistic well-being, including their social, physical, and emotional health, is essential for their learning and development. We focus on educating and nurturing the whole child—mind, body, and spirit.

Building on the Basics

Social-Emotional Engagement

Through our neuroscience curriculum, students—even our youngest learners— gain insights into the intricate workings of their brains, empowering them to optimize their cognitive functions effectively. Mindfulness practices, yoga sessions, and Tai Chi exercises are seamlessly woven into the daily routine to foster mental clarity, emotional balance, and self-regulation skills. By integrating these practices, we aim to provide a comprehensive educational experience that not only enhances academic learning but also promotes mental well-being.

Through our ongoing partnership with Let Grow, we have established a mixed-age playgroup where our students actively participate in a wide range of play and learning endeavors alongside other students of varied age groups. This unique setting fosters the development of social skills and encourages a deeper sense of empathy and understanding towards others.

Movement and Physical Well-being

Movement and physical activity are important parts of a child’s growth and development in the early years. Our students engage in frequent outdoor play and physical exploration on our rooftop space and through trips to local parks. The Physical Education curriculum allows our young learners to engage in a range of sports and activities that encourage cooperative play and teamwork.

Community

It takes a village to raise a child, and it takes a strong school community to create an environment where children can flourish and grow to reach their full potential. BWL provides a warm, supportive, and tight-knit community that helps students learn who they are, feel valued and empowered as members of the community, and understand themselves and how they exist in the context of the world around them. Our community values diversity of all kinds, emphasizing positive relationships with teachers and peers and embracing opportunities to find what we have in common rather than what divides us—an approach reinforced and put into practice through our Constructive Dialogue Initiative.

"Our son has been nurtured and loved by the teachers and has found a strong circle of friends with the other students at BWL. The curriculum is strong and creative, and we love all the opportunities for exciting learning experiences the school provides. But most of all, we really love this community."

—BWL Parent

Why Choose Pre-K–12th Grade

Our Pre-K–12 experience builds a strong, tight-knit community by bringing together students, families, faculty, and staff over many years. Teachers get to know students and their needs before they arrive in their classrooms, helping them prepare students for success at the next level.

This long-term connection fosters a sense of belonging and stability as everyone becomes familiar with our community’s values, traditions, and goals. This also provides a continuous educational experience, where each grade builds on the previous grade in an intentional yet natural progression that helps students avoid gaps in learning, achieving deeper understanding of concepts and better academic outcomes.

Students benefit from forming lasting friendships, cross-divisional connections, and supportive relationships with teachers who understand their growth and needs over time.

Families also enjoy a unified experience, participating in school events and activities and developing a deeper engagement with the school’s community. This ongoing relationship creates a supportive network that enriches both academic and social experiences for everyone involved.

The Four Pillars of BWL

BWL's Four Pillars are the cornerstone of our school. They inform every aspect of our program, community, and culture.

Explore the Four Pillars

Strong Community

One of the standout features of our school is the robust and inclusive community that thrives within its walls. The seamless integration of all grades, from Pre-K to 12, fosters a sense of unity and cohesion. Specifically, our youngest students not only feel a strong sense of belonging but also enjoy a continuous educational journey. By engaging with older peers, they form lasting friendships while also enriching their academic and social growth through diverse interactions and experiences.

Rigorous and Traditional Curriculum with Innovation

Our curriculum is meticulously crafted to offer a harmonious fusion of robust, time-tested literacy and math fundamentals, thoughtfully intertwined with cutting-edge programming such as Hydroponic and Aquaponic farming and technologies like Virtual Reality (VR). By integrating these diverse elements, we aim to equip our students not only with a solid academic foundation but also with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in an ever-evolving educational landscape driven by the latest technological advancements. Read more about BWL Academics.

Deep Sense of Exploration

Exploration lies at the core of our educational philosophy, shaping the way we nurture young minds. We actively promote a culture where students develop the confidence to take risks and try new things, venture on intriguing field trips, and delve into the mysteries of the world surrounding them. This profound emphasis on exploration serves as a catalyst, igniting curiosity within each individual and instilling a profound, enduring passion for continuous learning and growth.

Commitment to Constructive Dialogue and Democratic Values

We are dedicated to cultivating a welcoming environment that encourages constructive dialogue and innovative programming aimed at championing free expression and upholding democratic values. Within our educational framework, students not only grasp the significance of open communication but also cultivate a deep-rooted respect for diverse opinions. Through active engagement and involvement in their community, our students are empowered to become agents of positive change and contribute meaningfully to society. Read more about our Constructive Dialogue Initiative.

What's next?

Visit Us

Our Admissions team looks forward to meeting you! We hope you will join us for an information session and a tour to see our building and students in action. We also welcome all prospective families to Open House on Wednesday, November 13, at 6:30 p.m. You can register for both opportunities via Ravenna.

Click here to Register via Ravenna

Explore the Admissions Process

Applications are open now through Thursday, January 9, 2025. Students applying for the Pre-K program must turn four years old by October 15 of the school year for which they are applying. Tuition for the Pre-K program is $42,500; financial aid is not available for Pre-K students.

CLICK HERE TO VISIT BWL ADMISSIONS

Learn More About BWL

Academics, Athletics, the Arts, and a united community are all important parts of the BWL experience.

ACADEMICs and curriculum

BWL SIGNATURE PROGRAMS

CULTURE OF BELONGING

PERFORMING AND VISUAL ARTS

ATHLETICS AND PE AT BWL

BWL STRATEGIC VISION

Register to Stay in Touch

Keep updated and stay in touch with our Admissions Team by registering through our Inquiry Form on Ravenna.

Click here to STAY IN TOUCH

BWL Pre-K

Program Overview

Program Snapshot:

Highly experienced and qualified teachers

Curriculum designed to focus on the whole child

Unique learning opportunities, including exploring our on-campus Hydroponic and Aquaponic Farms

Weekly enrichment schedule including music and movement, art, physical education, world languages, and library time

Participation in school traditions and many opportunities to be connected to the greater school community