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Great Preschools in Suffolk County for Long Island Kids

Miss Midgie's preschool offers lots of hands-on, creative play in its preschool curriculum. Photo courtesy of the school
Miss Midgie's preschool offers lots of hands-on, creative play in its preschool curriculum. Photo courtesy of the school
3/22/22 - By Jaime Sumersille

You might get misty-eyed thinking about sending your little one off to preschool, but September is just around the corner. With so many preschools in Suffolk County, choosing the right early childhood education program can be overwhelming. We've rounded up a selection of the top preschools in Suffolk County. While location might play a role in your choice, consider the school’s teaching philosophy and take some time to tour a few preschools with your child before making a decision on where to enroll.

Families in Nassau County can check out our list of local Nassau County preschools to consider, and if you’re interested in Montessori preschools on Long Island, we’ve got you covered there, too. Head over to our complete Guide to Long Island Preschools for more helpful information.

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Storybook Kids accepts kids as young as 2 into its preschool program in Suffolk County. Photo courtesy of the school
Storybook Kids accepts kids as young as 2 into its preschool program in Suffolk County. Photo courtesy of the school

Preschools in Suffolk County for Long Island Kids

Montessori Life of Mount Sinai

Mount Sinai
At Montessori Life, children are encouraged to explore and discover the world based on their interests and abilities. The school accepts enrollment year-round for its preschool and kindergarten classes and offers a 10-week summer camp program featuring Montessori-based experiences. A bilingual program allows children to learn Spanish naturally while exploring the world around them. Classroom design, materials, and daily routines support individual development. READ MORE

Creations Early Childhood Learning Center

Sayville
Creations bills itself as a preschool and kindergarten prep program, catering to students from ages 2-5 years old. All Creations teachers are state-licensed. Youngsters enjoy enrichment classes like dance, art, yoga, and foreign languages. Its Candies program for 3-year-olds focuses on discovery and instilling a love of learning at a young age. Families enjoy performances by their children throughout showcasing all they’ve learned. READ MORE

HabiTots Preschool & Child Care Center

Medford and Middle Island
Family-owned and operated for more than 20 years, HabiTots offers two locations in central Suffolk County. Instructors guide students through learning and discovery with a focus on play. The school boasts state-of-the-art security equipment and a clean, pleasant environment. Before- and after-school care, full- and half-day programs, and enrichment opportunities are offered. Beyond the preschool, there are programs for infants, toddlers, school-age kids, and even a summer camp. READ MORE

Mill Pond Nursery School

Stony Brook and Port Jefferson Station
The preschool curriculum at Mill Pond Nursery School includes plenty of hands-on education through games, teaching everything from beginning phonics to basic math. Kids also enjoy real-life experiences such as tending to a garden, mailing a letter, and cooking. READ MORE

Miss Midgie's Preschool

West Babylon
You can find the owner, school director, and namesake Midge Leavey, interacting with students and parents on a daily basis at Miss Midgie's Preschool. The preschool curriculum uses a mindfulness approach to encourage children to consider the feelings of others while promoting self-esteem. Early literacy skills are emphasized alongside math-related skills. In addition to preschool, school break camps and babysitting services are offered. READ MORE

St. Joseph's Nursery School

Babylon
Learning through play is the educational philosophy at St. Joseph’s. Students follow a schedule but are given time to experiment and explore things that interest them. Flexible morning and afternoon programs are offered from 2-5 days a week depending on your child's age. Fill days off from school with classes in St. Joseph's activity gym, STEAM program, or Little Learners Corner. The school is affiliated with St. Joseph's Catholic Church.  READ MORE

Smithtown Co-Op Nursery School

Smithtown
Smithtown Nursery School offers preschool programs for ages 2 through 5. A parent-led cooperative, it has been a mainstay in the community for more than 50 years. The educational philosophy focuses on learning through play and includes time for self-guided and teacher-guided lessons. A nature-inspired curriculum helps children develop a love of the environment, and there is plenty of time for art-making and creative play.  READ MORE

Storybook Kids

West Islip
Early preschool begins at age 2 at this child care center and continues through pre-K for 5 and 6 year olds. The preschool program for kids ages 3-4 caters to the individual needs and strengths of each student. Students learn in a hands-on environment and work toward skills such as pre-reading and writing, pre-math, and social skills. READ MORE

Huntington Montessori School

Huntington Station
Huntington Montessori School is a private, non-denominational school, which offers programs for toddlers through third grade, plus summer camp programs beginning at age 2. Following a Montessori philosophy, students are encouraged to develop their individual talents and become thoughtful members of the community who share their gifts with others.  READ MORE

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About the Author

Jaime Sumersille
Jaime Sumersille, a mom of two boys in Bellmore, has been writing for Mommy Poppins for over a decade. She’s always exploring Long Island’s beaches, parks, and new attractions, and loves sharing those experiences on the site. Jaime enjoys adding her family’s perspective to Mommy Poppins’ mission.
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