Toddler care program
Curious minds,
bright futures
A safe, nurturing environment where toddlers explore, learn, make friends, and grow with confidence every day.
- Ages12 – 24 months
- ScheduleMonday – Friday
7:30 AM – 6:00 PM - Location591 3rd Avenue
Brooklyn, NY
What we offer
Build Independence
Encouraging self-help skills
Develop Social Skills
Learning through play and friendship
Spark Curiosity
Hands-on exploration
Grow with Confidence
Celebrating every milestone
Our toddler program
A Safe and Nurturing Place to Explore and Grow
Our toddler program is designed for children 12–24 months, providing a loving and supportive environment where they build independence, develop new skills, and form meaningful relationships.
Our approach
Experience Curriculum
We follow the Experience Curriculum, a research-based approach that supports each child’s development through play, discovery, and real-life experiences. Toddlers build essential skills across all areas in a way that feels natural and meaningful.
Cognitive
Problem solving and curiosity
Physical
Gross and fine motor skills
Social & Emotional
Friendship, empathy and confidence
Language
Communication and expression
Creative
Imagination and self-expression
Potty training
Potty Training Works Together
We partner with families to support potty training whenever you and your child are ready. Our teachers use a gentle, consistent approach to help toddlers build confidence and independence.
We Work Together
A consistent approach between home and school
Builds Confidence
Encouraging and positive support
At Their Own Pace
We follow your child’s individual readiness and needs
A typical day
A Day in Our Toddler Classroom
Our toddler classroom follows a balanced daily routine that includes early learning, enrichment classes, movement, sensory exploration, meals, and rest. Each day is designed to encourage curiosity, independence, creativity, and social development in a comfortable, predictable environment.
Toddler Daily Schedule
Morning
- 7:30–8:00amArrival & morning welcome
- 8:00–9:00amMorning stretches, movement & dance
- 9:00–9:30amBreakfast
- 9:30–10:00amLearning centers & hands-on exploration
- 10:00–10:30amMorning circle time, songs & storytelling
- 10:30–11:00amLanguage development & interactive learning
- 11:00–11:30amEnrichment class
- 11:30am–12:00pmExperience Curriculum & creative activities
Afternoon
- 12:00–12:30pmLunch
- 12:30–12:45pmDiaper changes, handwashing & nap preparation
- 12:45–2:45pmNap & quiet rest time
- 2:45–3:00pmWake-up & personal care
- 3:00–3:30pmFine motor skills & sensory exploration
- 3:30–4:00pmSocial-emotional learning & confidence building
- 4:00–4:30pmAfternoon snack
- 4:30–5:00pmInteractive learning & creative play
- 5:00–6:00pmAge-appropriate puzzles, blocks & departure
Meals & snackRest
Enrichments
Beyond the Classroom: Toddler Enrichment
Our toddler enrichment program introduces children to music, movement, language, creativity, and hands-on learning. All enrichment classes are included in tuition, and activities may change with the seasons, holidays, and curriculum themes.
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![A teacher signing with toddlers sitting around her on the rug.]()
Baby Sign Language
Introduces simple signs to help toddlers communicate their needs, feelings, and everyday experiences.
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![A teacher playing guitar for toddlers dancing with shakers.]()
Live Music & Guitar
A visiting music teacher joins our classroom weekly for interactive songs, rhythm, movement, and musical exploration.
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![A teacher holding up a Spanish word card for toddlers on the rug.]()
Spanish Language
A visiting Spanish teacher introduces toddlers to Spanish through songs, interactive games, repetition, and age-appropriate activities.
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![Toddlers stretching on yoga mats with a teacher.]()
Toddler Yoga
Gentle movements, stretching, and playful poses help children develop balance, coordination, body awareness, and concentration.
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![Toddlers finger painting at a table with a teacher.]()
Arts & Crafts
Age-appropriate creative projects encourage imagination, self-expression, fine motor development, and exploration of different materials.
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![Toddlers exploring sponges, textured balls and fabric at a sensory table.]()
Sensory Development
Hands-on activities encourage children to explore textures, sounds, colors, shapes, and materials while developing sensory awareness.
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![Toddlers building a block ramp and stacking cups with a teacher.]()
STEAM Exploration
Simple science, technology, engineering, art, and math experiences introduce early problem-solving, discovery, and creative thinking.
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![Toddlers in firefighter, police and builder costumes playing with toy trucks.]()
Drama & Pretend Play
Imaginative activities, puppets, storytelling, and role-playing help children develop creativity, communication, and social skills.
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![A teacher reading a picture book about feelings to toddlers holding soft toys.]()
Social-Emotional Learning
Positive interactions and age-appropriate activities help toddlers develop confidence, recognize emotions, practice kindness, and build relationships.
Nutritious meals
Healthy Food
for Growing Toddlers
We provide nutritious, balanced meals and snacks to support your child’s growth and energy throughout the day. Our meals are served family-style, helping toddlers develop healthy eating habits, independence, and positive social skills.
Balanced & Nutritious
Healthy meals and snacks included in tuition
Fresh Ingredients
Variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and protein
Family-Style Meals
Encouraging independence and social skills
Meals included
- Breakfast9:00–9:30am
- Lunch12:00–12:30pm
- Afternoon snack4:00–4:30pm
Families are welcome to provide alternative meals. Our weekly menu is in the Brightwheel app.
Take a Look Inside
Our Toddler Classroom
Schedule a toddler tour
Locations
Daycare in Park Slope, Brooklyn
Explore our three daycare locations in Park Slope, Brooklyn, all just one block apart. We offer infant care, toddler care, Montessori-inspired 2-K, and free NYC 3-K for All.
NYC 3-K for All Program
69 16th Street, Brooklyn, NY 11215Our 3K classroom provides a bright and engaging learning environment, along with a spacious playroom featuring indoor climbing and other activities.
- Programs
- NYC 3-K for All Program
- Hours
- Monday – Friday, 7:30am – 6:00pm
Infant & Toddler Program
591 3rd Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11215Where the youngest children are: infant and toddler rooms for 6 weeks to 24 months, with the same hours and the same kitchen deliveries.
- Programs
- Infant care · Toddler care
- Hours
- Monday – Friday, 7:30am – 6:00pm
2-K Program
71 16th Street, Brooklyn, NY 11215Our Montessori-inspired 2-K Program provides a warm and engaging environment where children learn through play, develop independence, build social skills, and prepare for 3K.
- Programs
- 2-K Program
- Hours
- Monday – Friday, 7:30am – 6:00pm
Parent reviews
Loved by Families, Trusted by Parents
We are proud of the trust families place in us. Read what parents have to say about their experiences at Cuddle Avenue Academy.
5.048 Google reviews
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Jess Garfinkel3 months ago
I cannot say enough amazing things about Cuddle Ave!!! We have been sending our son there since he was about 5.5 months old. As first-time parents, we were nervous about leaving him but Cuddle Ave has gone above and beyond to put us at ease!! The staff is truly incredible - Ayna, Zumrat, Nadia, Muhabbat, plus all of the toddler teachers that help out with the infants!! It’s so clear how much they love each of the kids when they come in each day. They also send tons of pictures and videos throughout the day of them playing, learning Spanish and sign language, doing puppet shows, and more! Love this place so much!!!
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Aya El Masry9 months ago
Cuddle Avenue Daycare is an amazing place for children. The staff are kind, attentive, and genuinely care about every child. The environment feels safe, warm, and welcoming, which gives parents real peace of mind. Highly recommend to any parent looking for a trustworthy and loving daycare.
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Jen Chen9 months ago
I’ve had a great experience with Cuddle Avenue Daycare. From the very beginning, the staff have been caring, attentive, and genuinely invested in the children. I always felt comfortable and confident knowing my child was in a safe, loving, and supportive environment. I would highly recommend Cuddle Avenue Daycare to any parent looking for a place they can truly trust.
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Emily Donaldsona year ago
Like any first time mom I struggled sending my baby to daycare. Ayna and her team do everything possible to make you feel comfortable and confident in their care. From a phone call the first day to check in, to the many many photos and videos throughout each day, to their responsiveness to messages, it was a truly great experience. One day I picked him up and he reached back for his teacher, a wonderful indication of the warm, caring environment they foster. Thank you Cuddle for the care and love you showed our son ❤️
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Hiba Ghoumrassia year ago
I am beyond impressed with Cuddle Avenue Daycare! The staff is exceptional, always showing kindness and patience with the children. The activities are creative and educational, and my child looks forward to each day. It’s clear they take the time to understand each child’s needs and personality. I feel completely confident leaving my child in their care, knowing they are in a safe, nurturing environment. Highly recommend to anyone looking for a daycare that truly cares!
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Niemaa year ago
Cuddle Avenue Daycare is truly a gem! The staff is caring, attentive, and always goes above and beyond to make every child feel loved and supported. My little one has thrived in their nurturing environment, and I couldn’t be happier with the personalized care. The daycare provides a perfect balance of fun and learning, and I love how they create a safe, engaging space for children to grow. If you’re looking for a daycare that treats your child like family, this is the place!
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Sabrina Kerai2 years ago
We cannot say enough great things about Cuddle Avenue Academy. We switched our son at about 8 months old to Cuddle Avenue after spending 3 months at another daycare because we felt that the quality of education and care was far superior. We were commuting to Cuddle Avenue in Park Slope from our home in Manhattan for almost a year because we were huge fans of the curriculum and the teachers! Ayna has been an exceptional director of the school, and is constantly adapting to meet the needs of the students, always adding enriching activities and curriculum, and in general incredibly focused on the development of the children in her care. Our son has been there for nearly 2 years now, and we have another baby on the way that we are excited will join the Cuddle Avenue family.
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S Q2 years ago
A true Gem ! I found Cuddle Ave after searching and searching for the most fitting daycare. All the teachers are caring, attentive and loving. My daughter has developed so much mentally and physically and I am so grateful for the lesson planning , daily updates on the app and just the overall treatment the Children get. The facility itself is very clean, bright, organized and most importantly fun. Would definitely recommend for the future littles 😊
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Akua Damptey3 years ago
To say we had exceptional childcare for our child would be an understatement. We felt as if our child was left with family! The kids are exposed not just to important academic basics but also yoga, gardening, music and lots of support for learning both academic and social. Throughout the day I receive updates and photos that allow us to feel more connected to our son. The staff is warm and very communicative. Thank you to all the staff for giving me peace of mind as I head off to work every day. If you’re looking for a great pre-school/day care I would highly recommend Cuddle Avenue. I promise you would have no regrets. Ayna, thank you for the services you have offered my family.
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Carrie4 years ago
Ayna is the most wonderful caregiver. Children are naturally drawn to her, and she’s built an amazing team focused on teaching and nurturing all the babies and toddlers lucky enough to be in her program. The communication from the team is excellent (we received daily updates and photos) and most of all we had complete trust in the safety and care of our child whilst at daycare. I cannot recommend Cuddle Avenue Academy highly enough.
Questions
Frequently Asked Questions About Toddler Care
Choosing the right daycare is an important decision. Here are answers to the questions families ask most about our toddler program.
01What ages do you accept in your toddler program?
Our toddler program welcomes children ages 12–24 months. We provide a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment that supports early learning, independence, and social development.
02Is tuition charged monthly?
Yes. Tuition is billed monthly on the first day of each month. Payments must be received by the 10th to avoid late payment fees.
03Are drop-off and pick-up times flexible?
Families are required to follow their contracted hours. Early drop-offs and late pick-ups outside contracted hours are subject to an additional fee of $1 per minute.
04What happens if my child is sick?
If your child becomes sick at daycare, we contact you and follow our illness policy. Children with a fever must remain home until they have been fever-free for at least 24 hours without fever-reducing medication. A doctor’s note is also required before returning.
05Will parents be notified if there is an illness in the classroom?
Yes. If we become aware of a contagious illness or notice similar symptoms among children, we notify families so they can monitor their children and take appropriate precautions.
06How do parents receive daily updates?
We use the Brightwheel app to share photos, videos, daily reports, meals, learning activities, and important classroom updates. Brightwheel also gives you curriculum information, calendars, billing, and direct messaging with our teachers, so you can message your child’s teacher whenever you have a question.
07What safety and cleaning procedures do you follow?
Our classrooms, toys, and frequently touched surfaces are cleaned and sanitized regularly. Classroom carpets are cleaned weekly on Fridays, and we use air purifiers and HVAC ventilation systems to help maintain indoor air quality.
08Are your teachers trained and background checked?
Yes. All teachers complete required criminal background checks and receive CPR, First Aid, health and safety, emergency procedure, and EpiPen training. Our staff also complete ongoing early childhood education training, including 15 hours of professional development annually, and we require relevant childcare experience and appropriate staff vaccinations.
09Are vaccinations required?
Yes. Children must meet applicable New York State childcare immunization requirements, including the annual influenza vaccine requirement. We monitor vaccination records and notify parents when updated documentation is needed.
10What if my child does not want to nap?
Children who do not fall asleep are encouraged to rest quietly on their cots during nap time. Our teachers remain present and supervise children throughout the rest period.
11Are meals and enrichment classes included in tuition?
Yes. Breakfast, lunch, and an afternoon snack are included, along with all enrichment classes: music, Spanish, yoga, sign language, sensory development, STEAM, and other age-appropriate activities. Parents are also welcome to provide alternative meals.
12Do you help with potty training?
Yes. We work together with parents when they are ready to begin potty training, and follow a consistent approach to support each child’s individual progress.
13What curriculum do you follow?
We follow the Experience Curriculum, which focuses on hands-on learning, early childhood development, and age-appropriate educational experiences. Parents can follow daily learning activities and projects in Brightwheel.
14Can I schedule a tour before enrolling?
Absolutely! We encourage families to visit our toddler classroom, meet our teachers, and learn more about our daily routines and educational approach. You can schedule an in-person tour through our website.
- 12–24 mo
- 7:30am–6pm
- 591 3rd Ave
Toddler care
Ready to watch your
little one grow?
Come explore our toddler classroom, meet our caring teachers, and discover how Cuddle Avenue Academy supports your child’s growth, learning, and independence.
Infant · Toddler · 2-K · NYC 3-K · Summer Camp