Educational Programs

Toddlers

This program plants the seeds for vibrant growth for our youngest learners, ages 18 to 36 months. The student-to-adult ratio is 5:1.

ThistleWaithe’s toddler program provides a sensory-rich learning environment for children where each morning is full of discovery. Exploration is safe and supported yet brimming with challenges, wonder, and joy.

Early problem-solving skills provide a strong scaffold for future learning. Whether preparing a snack, sorting colorful clothing items, or using tools to create and transform something, the toddler works independently and at a pace conducive to mastery.

The gift of time is treasured - come watch as we blossom and thrive!

You may enroll your child for the following half-day morning options from 9 am – 12 pm:

  • Two half-day mornings (Tuesday and Thursday)
  • Three half-day mornings (Monday, Wednesday, and Friday)
  • Five half-day mornings

You may add on full-day options within a two, three, four, or five-day schedule, from 9 am - 3 pm (on days your child is already enrolled in the half-day program).

Toddler playing with toy cooking implements in a classroom

Primary

Our mixed-ages program sparks and fuels the imaginations of children 3-5 years old.

Critical thinking, problem solving, observation, and complex investigation are the cornerstones for a strong foundation in joyful, lifelong learning.

From weaving to writing and making and keeping friends to identifying the continents and becoming a global citizen, ThistleWaithe offers a launching pad for ideas, both great and small.

There is a minimum enrollment of five half-days from 8:45 am – 11:45 am. You may add on three, four, or five full day options from 8:45 am – 2:45 pm, at our South Salem campus.  We offer half days only at our Katonah Campus. The student-to-adult ratio is 7:1.

Kindergarten

Full-day Kindergarten at ThistleWaithe equips the child with tools to seek answers to ever-challenging questions. We learn to observe with precision and an inquiring spirit to reveal the mysteries within!

Language and reading, mathematics, geography, and nature studies provide daily challenges for the Kindergarten child. A customized curriculum based on a child’s learning style and developmental needs ensure that the day is filled with joyful possibilities.

Kindergarten at ThistleWaithe offers young learners a compass for their adventures and the skills to navigate and explore in brilliant new directions. From learning the fine art of diplomacy and friendship to surmounting academic hurdles that once seemed impossible, Kindergarten sets the stage for a life of learning.

Program hours are from 9 am – 3 pm, and the student-to-adult ratio is 9:1.

Two young kindergarten girls measuring a sapling in the woods and taking notes