EARLY CHILDHOOD

H.E.S. Early Childhood Center in Canarsie, Brooklyn

2-K • 3-K • Pre-K (UPK) | Ages 2–5

Where Little Learners Grow, Play & Thrive

Give your child a bright beginning at H.E.S. Early Childhood Center in Canarsie, Brooklyn. Our licensed preschool provides a nurturing, welcoming environment where children learn through play, build friendships, develop confidence, and prepare for kindergarten.

Through hands-on learning, caring educators, and meaningful family connections, we help every child grow socially, emotionally, physically, and academically.

Early Childhood Programs for Ages 2–5

2-K Preschool Program

A nurturing introduction to preschool where our youngest learners develop independence, social skills, and curiosity through guided play and exploration.

3-K Preschool Program

Our 3-K program encourages discovery, creativity, communication, and early learning through engaging classroom experiences.

Pre-K (UPK) Program

Our Pre-K program builds foundational academic and social skills, helping children gain confidence and prepare for a successful transition to kindergarten.

A Strong Foundation for Lifelong Learning

Our DOE-based, play-centered curriculum supports early childhood development through age-appropriate activities that encourage curiosity, creativity, independence, and problem-solving.

What Your Child Will Experience

Play-Based Learning: Hands-on exploration, discovery, and creative problem-solving.
Early Literacy & STEM: Language, reading readiness, math, science, and discovery.
Arts & Creativity: Art, music, movement, dance, and cooking.
Social & Emotional Growth: Building friendships, empathy, communication, and teamwork.
Physical Development: Active play, weekly physical education, and outdoor learning experiences.
Kindergarten Readiness: Building the confidence and skills needed for elementary school.

Why Families Choose H.E.S.

Families throughout Canarsie and Southeast Brooklyn choose H.E.S. for quality early childhood education, supportive educators, flexible care, and a strong sense of community.

Experienced, nurturing, CPR/First Aid-certified educators
Clean, safe, and secure learning environment
Uniform dress code
Nutritious breakfast, lunch, and snacks
Family-style dining
Three outdoor playgrounds and an indoor gym
Weekly physical education and outdoor learning
Early drop-off and extended childcare options
Summer, vacation, and holiday camp opportunities
Family events and opportunities for parent involvement
Active Parent Advisory Committee (PAC)
Access to H.E.S. After School, Youth Sports, Aquatics, Social Services, Disability Services, Fitness, and other community programs
Discounts on select H.E.S. youth programs
Private-pay and eligible childcare voucher options

Extended Day Enrichment & Childcare

We understand that every family’s schedule is different. H.E.S. offers early morning care and extended afternoon childcare to support busy parents and caregivers.

Our specialist-led Extended Day Enrichment program, offered from 4:00–6:00 PM, includes physical education, literacy, dance, music & movement, cooking, STEM, and creative activities.

Center Hours

Regular School Day: Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM–2:50 PM
Early Care: 7:30–8:30 AM
Late Care: Monday–Thursday, 3:00–6:00 PM
Friday Late Care: 3:00–5:30 PM

Early & Late Care Fees

Early Care: $100/month
Late Care: $300/month
Early + Late Care: $400/month

H.E.S. accepts private-pay families and eligible childcare vouchers, including 1199, SEIU, TWU, NYC ACS, and HRA.

Please contact our team for current fees, eligibility, and availability.

Summer Camp & Year-Round Enrichment

Learning and fun continue beyond the school year at H.E.S. Our Early Childhood Summer Camp gives children in 2-K, 3-K, and Pre-K opportunities to explore, create, play, and build friendships throughout the summer.

Breakfast and lunch are included, with early and late care options available.

Families can also explore available vacation and holiday camp programs throughout the year.

Ready to Join the H.E.S. Family?

Discover a preschool in Canarsie, Brooklyn, where your child can learn, grow, make friends, and thrive. Whether you’re exploring 2-K, 3-K, or Pre-K, our team is ready to help you take the next step.

Explore Admissions & Enrollment

Contact Our Early Childhood Team

Raymona Pittman

Phone: (718) 241-3000 ext. 119

Email: [email protected]

H.E.S. Early Childhood Center | 9502 Seaview Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11236

Early Childhood Calendar 2026-2027

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A Peek Into Early Childhood

Applying to H.E.S. Early Childhood Center

Whether you’re joining us for the first time or returning for another school year, we’re excited to be part of your child’s educational journey.

Our team is here to help you navigate the application and registration process for 2-K, 3-K, and Pre-K (UPK) at H.E.S. Early Childhood Center in Canarsie, Brooklyn.

2027–2028 Preschool Admissions

3-K Eligibility: Children born in 2024.

Pre-K (UPK) Eligibility: Children born in 2023.

Families interested in 3-K or Pre-K for the 2027–2028 school year can apply through NYC Public Schools during the official admissions period.

Important Admissions Dates

January 13, 2027: Applications open
February 26, 2027: Applications close
May 11, 2027: Pre-K offers released
May 18, 2027: 3-K offers released

Dates are subject to change. Visit NYC Public Schools for the latest admissions information.

How to Apply to H.E.S.

Follow these steps to apply for 3-K or Pre-K at H.E.S. Early Childhood Center.

Step 1: Submit Your MySchools Application

Visit NYC MySchools to create an account, explore available programs, and submit your application during the admissions period.

Search for H.E.S. Early Childhood Center using school code 18KAVQ.
Add H.E.S. to your application and rank it according to your preferences.
Complete the required application questions.
Review and submit your application before the deadline.

Returning families: A new application may be required when moving into a new admissions program, such as from 3-K to Pre-K. Contact our team if you’re unsure about your next steps.

Step 2: Review and Accept Your Offer

NYC Public Schools will release placement offers on the scheduled offer dates. Review your offer and follow the instructions provided to accept your placement by the applicable deadline.

Step 3: Complete H.E.S. Registration

After accepting your placement, complete the required H.E.S. Early Childhood registration process and submit any requested documents.

Our registration team can guide you through the remaining steps.

2-K, MyCity & Childcare Assistance

Families interested in 2-K, childcare assistance, or eligible extended-day and year-round services may have different application and documentation requirements.

The NYC MyCity portal provides access to childcare assistance services. Our team can help you understand whether MyCity is relevant to your family’s enrollment needs.

If your family has an active ACS or HRA childcare voucher, please contact H.E.S. directly for guidance on required documentation and registration.

Missed the Application Deadline?

Families who missed the main 3-K or Pre-K application period can explore available waitlist opportunities through MySchools.

Placement depends on seat availability and applicable admissions requirements. Contact our Early Childhood team for assistance.

Visit MySchools

Need Help Finding Childcare or Applying?

We’re Here to Guide Your Family

Finding the right preschool and navigating NYC enrollment requirements can feel overwhelming. H.E.S. offers personalized guidance to help families explore their options and take the next step with confidence.

Explore H.E.S. 2-K, 3-K, and Pre-K programs
Understand enrollment eligibility and deadlines
Navigate MySchools and MyCity
Understand required registration documents
Get answers to childcare and enrollment questions

Contact Our Early Childhood Team

Raymona Pittman

Phone: (718) 241-3000 ext. 119

Email: [email protected]

Need Registration Assistance?

Visit our Registration Assistance page or call (718) 241-3000 at extension 122 or 131.

We look forward to welcoming your family to H.E.S.!

Early Childhood Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about our 2-K, 3-K, and Pre-K (UPK) programs at H.E.S. Early Childhood Center in Canarsie, Brooklyn.

1. How many teachers are in each classroom?

Each classroom has two teachers: a Lead Teacher and an Assistant Teacher.

2. Does my child need to be potty trained?

No. Children do not need to be fully potty trained, but we encourage families to introduce basic bathroom routines, such as communicating when they need to go and attempting to use the bathroom independently.

3. Are meals provided?

Yes. Nutritious breakfast, lunch, and snacks are provided daily.

4. What curriculum do you use?

We use the DOE Creative Curriculum, which supports hands-on learning, exploration, creativity, and early childhood development.

5. What are your hours of operation and extended care fees?

Our regular school day for 2-K, 3-K, and Pre-K (UPK) runs Monday through Friday, from 8:30 AM to 2:50 PM.

Extended Care Options

Early Care: 7:30–8:30 AM — $100/month
Late Care: Monday–Thursday, 3:00–6:00 PM — $300/month
Friday Late Care: 3:00–5:30 PM
Early + Late Care: $400/month

6. How do I apply to the Early Childhood program?

Families interested in 3-K or Pre-K can apply through NYC’s MySchools portal. After receiving and accepting an official placement offer, families complete the H.E.S. registration process.

For step-by-step instructions, visit our Early Childhood Admissions & Enrollment page.

7. How can I apply for a childcare voucher?

Once your child is accepted into the program, our Early Childhood Director can assist you with the childcare voucher process and explain the required documentation.

8. Does H.E.S. require school uniforms?

Yes. Our Early Childhood Center follows a school uniform policy. Uniforms include navy blue or khaki bottoms, white or navy blue shirts, and black dress shoes with rubber soles or sneakers.

View our complete School Uniform Policy for details.

9. Do children receive homework?

We provide weekly review sheets highlighting what children have learned in class. Families are encouraged to reinforce learning at home through fun, age-appropriate activities and projects that invite parent participation.

10. Do you hold parent-teacher conferences?

Yes. Parent-teacher conferences are held three times a year, typically in December, March, and June.

11. How do teachers communicate with parents?

We use ClassDojo to share classroom updates, important announcements, photos, and messages between teachers and families.

12. Is there a nurse on-site?

We do not have a nurse on-site. However, designated staff members are Medication Administration Training (MAT) certified to administer medication when needed, in accordance with applicable procedures.

13. Are discounts available for other H.E.S. programs?

Yes. Eligible H.E.S. members and Early Childhood Center families can receive discounts on select programs, including Youth Sports, Aquatics, Music School, and other enrichment opportunities.

14. What Does a Typical Day at H.E.S. Look Like?

Our daily schedule balances structured learning, creative exploration, physical activity, meals, and rest. Below is an example of a typical day.

Sample Daily Schedule

8:30–9:00 AM
Arrival, morning check-in, fine motor activities, and breakfast
9:00–9:15 AM
Morning meeting
9:15–10:15 AM
Music and movement, gross motor activities, and indoor or outdoor physical play
10:15–11:50 AM
Learning centers, interest areas, and free play
11:50 AM–12:05 PM
Bathroom routines, lunch preparation, classroom helpers, and read-aloud
12:05–12:45 PM
Family-style lunch
12:45–1:45 PM (3-K)
Rest time
1:45–2:05 PM (3-K)
Wake-up, clean-up, and bedding routines
2:00–2:20 PM
Snack time
2:20–2:45 PM
Closing circle, reflection, story time, and transition activities
2:45–3:00 PM
Additional learning center activities
3:00–3:45 PM
Afternoon extracurricular activities (extended care)
3:45–6:00 PM
Enrichment activities, outdoor or gym time, clean-up, and dismissal (extended care)

Schedules may vary by classroom, age group, and daily activities. Extended care activities are available to enrolled families.

Still Have Questions?

Our Early Childhood team is happy to help you learn more about our programs.

Contact: Raymona Pittman

Phone: (718) 241-3000 ext. 119

Email: [email protected]

Contact Us For More Info

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School Uniform Policy

All children enrolled in H.E.S. Early Childhood Center’s 2-K, 3-K, and Pre-K (UPK) programs are required to follow our school uniform dress code.

Girls’ Uniform

Bottoms: Navy blue or khaki pants, jumper, skort, or skirt
Tops: White or navy blue polo or woven shirt with a rounded collar, long or short sleeves
Socks & Tights: White socks, knee-high socks, or tights
Sweater: Navy blue school sweater
Footwear: Black dress shoes with rubber soles or sneakers

Boys’ Uniform

Bottoms: Navy blue or khaki uniform pants
Tops: White or navy blue polo or woven shirt, long or short sleeves
Socks: Black socks
Sweater: Navy blue school sweater
Footwear: Black dress shoes with rubber soles or sneakers

Questions About Our Uniform Policy?

For more information, please contact Raymona Pittman.

Phone: (718) 241-3000 ext. 119

Email:
[email protected]

For more information about the Early Childhood Program, contact Raymona Pittman at (718) 241-3000 ext. 119 or email [email protected].