Mission Statement
The Riverside Church Weekday School is a progressive, play-based early childhood program serving children ages two through five. Rooted in a tradition of joyful learning since 1930, we ensure that every child feels safe, accepted, and deeply known by combining thoughtfully designed classrooms, engaging play-based learning, and meaningful relationships with peers and teachers. Guided by the spirit of The Riverside Church, our mission is to nurture is to nurture an awareness of diversity, mutual respect, compassion, empathy and community.
We believe children learn best through hands-on exploration, imaginative play, and authentic experiences. By partnering with families and building on each child’s unique interests and strengths, we create a dynamic learning community where children are encouraged to wonder, take risks, and grow into thoughtful, caring citizens. Every day, children explore, create, and thrive in ways that are meaningful and joyful, guided by the values of curiosity, empathy, and community.
Philosophy
Founded in 1930 as part of The Riverside Church’s mission to serve families in the community, The Weekday School has evolved into a progressive, play-based early childhood program welcoming children and families of all backgrounds. Our non-denominational curriculum honors the social, emotional, intellectual, physical, and creative growth of every child. Rooted in the belief that learning is built through connection and experience, our approach emphasizes relationships, imagination, and joyful discovery.
- Children as Capable and Curious Learners – At The Weekday School, we see children as capable, curious, and full of potential. Through open-ended play, collaborative exploration, and project-based learning, children construct understanding, develop empathy, and learn to express themselves in meaningful ways. Our educators draw inspiration from leading early childhood philosophies and research, carefully designing experiences that encourage questioning, critical thinking, experimentation, and reflection.
- Inspired Learning Experiences – Learning at Weekday is dynamic and deeply personal. Topics of study grow from children’s interests and lived experiences, allowing them to see themselves in their work. Our classrooms, filled with natural light and offering views of the Hudson River and Harlem skyline, provide a one-of-a-kind learning environment where children engage in hands-on exploration, imaginative play, and collaborative projects that grow from their own ideas. Specialized indoor spaces, including an art studio, library, and music and dance rooms, provide opportunities for creative expression, skill-building, and exploration in multiple modalities.
- Dedicated, Reflective Educators – Our educators are lifelong learners who engage in ongoing professional development to stay informed on the latest research and innovations in early childhood education. This dedication ensures that classrooms remain vibrant, responsive, and inclusive spaces where every child feels supported, celebrated, and inspired to grow.
- Families as Partners in Learning – We celebrate the diverse cultures, faiths, and family structures that make up our community, inviting our families to share their traditions, stories, and talents in the classroom. An active Parents Association, family events, and open communication, including weekly ClassDojo posts, monthly newsletters, and year-end portfolios, ensure that our families feel connected, informed, and part of a collaborative learning community. Together, our families and educators create a circle of trust that supports each child’s journey and affirms that every child deserves to feel safe, accepted, and loved.
External Partnerships
The Weekday School is proud to collaborate with exceptional partners who enrich classrooms and strengthen our community:
- Teachers College and Bank Street College of Education – Our educators engage in ongoing professional development through these renowned institutions, bringing the latest research and reflective practices into the classroom. We also welcome student teachers, creating a dynamic, inspiring learning community where children contribute to shaping the next generation of educators.
- Manhattan School of Music – Student musicians share live performances in our classrooms, and children attend special musical events that deepen their engagement with the arts and nurture a lifelong appreciation for creativity.
- Educational Consultants and Child Development Specialists – We partner with experts who support our educators and families, offering guidance on developmental milestones, learning strategies, and transitions to future school settings.
- The Riverside Church Food Pantry and Social Action Programs – Children participate in weekly acts of community care, learning empathy, generosity, and social responsibility through meaningful, hands-on experiences.
These partnerships expand our curriculum, connect children to the wider world, and embody our shared commitment to learning, community, and social responsibility.