Discover Our Play-Based Programs
Maple Street School is a play-based, emergent curriculum which encompasses deep studies that derive from classroom discoveries. The focus is to develop critical thinkers and problem solvers, while supporting students’ social-emotional well-being. We strive daily to create a deeper connection to oneself, family, the classroom and the community at large. We celebrate and recognize that we are all different, different learners, but we are all together in learning, growing and caring for each other.
We have Full Time, Part Time, Half Day, Universal Pre-K, Tuition Assistance and more. We want everyone to come and play!
The Power of Play-Based Learning
At Maple Street School, we know that play is more than just fun—it’s essential for developing critical thinking, resilience, and a lifelong love of learning. Through hands-on exploration and creative problem-solving, children learn to think independently, collaborate with others, and adapt to new challenges. Play supports mental health, fosters curiosity, and builds the confidence kids need to thrive in and beyond the classroom.
Our approach blends the Reggio Emilia philosophy, which emphasizes child-led exploration and collaboration, with the Bank Street model, known for its focus on experiential, developmentally appropriate learning. While we share common values with Montessori (self-directed activity) and Waldorf (imaginative play and a focus on the whole child), our curriculum uniquely balances structure and flexibility to meet each child’s needs.
By cultivating joyful, meaningful experiences through play, we prepare children for the academic, social, and emotional challenges ahead, nurturing well-rounded individuals ready to grow and succeed. At Maple Street School, learning is an adventure that starts with play!
We play outside everyday! Whenever possible we explore our neighborhood to enhance the curriculum at school. We visit nearby playgrounds, Prospect Park, the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, the Prospect Park Zoo, the Brooklyn Children Museum and the Brooklyn Museum of Art.
Supporting Every Child’s Unique Journey
At Maple Street School, we believe every child is a unique learner, and we are dedicated to helping them thrive. That’s why we incorporate regular developmental screenings to understand each child’s strengths, learning styles, and areas where they might need extra support. Early intervention is key to fostering growth and addressing challenges before they become barriers to learning.
Our play-based approach allows us to create carefully considered challenges tailored to each child’s needs, promoting resilience, critical thinking, and a sense of accomplishment. Whether a child needs additional learning support or opportunities to explore their unique talents, our team collaborates with families to ensure every student feels empowered and supported.
By combining individualized attention with the best elements of Reggio Emilia and Bank Street philosophies, we ensure every child is prepared for a bright, confident future—academically, socially, and emotionally.
Weekly Music with Jeremy, our music teacher since 2005, enriches our curriculum in several key areas:
Motor Skill Development: Playing instruments and moving to music (like dancing and marching) enhances both fine and gross motor skills.
Language Development: Singing songs with more complex lyrics for the older kids and exploring consonant sounds with the younger ones helps boost language skills.
Social-Emotional Development: Many of the songs we sing—focused on greetings, sharing, feelings, and friendships—support children's social-emotional growth.
Community Building: Making music together fosters a sense of community. Each child plays an important role as we create and participate together.
Fun: Above all, having fun with music is essential. This is a top priority when planning our classes.
Cross-Curricular Support: We often incorporate songs related to what each class is currently learning.
Video Courtesy of Jeremy Zmuda
Maple Street has a dynamic and immersive Universal
Pre-K program. Apply through MySchools by 3/1.
Pre-K For All Tours (for children born in 2020) will be held on Thursday mornings from 10am-11am at our 21 Lincoln Road location. Register here!
We believe that everyone should be able to play here at Maple Street. We offer Financial Assistance to qualifying families through our scholarship fund, Little Friends.
