Bienvenue à la Maternelle
Choosing a preschool is a big decision. Choosing a language immersion program is an even bigger one. It is not only the foundation of your child’s education, but it is also the first step to opening the door to a lifetime of bilingualism and multiculturalism. It is one of the most wonderful gifts to give your child, and it is an entry point to a new and diverse community of friends that will last a lifetime. We hope that Smith Street Maternelle will be at the heart of that community for you.
We offer:
an incredible team of bilingual educators who are continually designing and re-adjusting curricula adapted to your child’s needs
beautiful, modern, bright, clean and playful newly constructed spaces with every design detail intended to foster a child’s growing independence and happiness
expert-led talks, and fun events for you, your kids, and the whole family together
We have developed a teaching philosophy based on the fundamentals of language immersion education that blends influences from Reggio Emilia, Maria Montessori, Rudolf Steiner and the Developmental-Interaction approach.
At Smith Street Maternelle, children are encouraged to play and explore. They become active learners and critical thinkers. We are happiest when children leave us as confident, curious, fluent French speakers who are ready for their next school adventure.
À très bientôt!
Mission and Philosophy
Smith Street Maternelle is the affiliated preschool of Smith Street Workshop — a learning center in Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn. The Maternelle began in 2016 as a small playgroup organized in a tiny space with the owner’s then 2-year-old daughter and her friends. Since then, the program has grown organically into a larger French immersion preschool and kindergarten program grounded in the fundamentals of progressive education.
In our classrooms, you will find a nurturing environment where children feel loved, heard, and understood. We do everything we can to instill a sense of security and openness in the classroom so children can explore, learn, and develop at their own speed. In our fast-moving world, childhood is a precious time.
Our Team
Our team is the heart of our program. Not only are they brilliant, deeply committed to their practice and to the mission of our school, but they are also the warmest, kindest, and most lovely people you will ever meet. Each lead teacher in the maternelle is a native French speaker with an advanced degree in Early Childhood Education.
Our Campuses
We have three locations in Carroll Gardens, Gowanus, and Brooklyn Heights. Our schools are located a few blocks away from many convenient subway lines. The design, flow, and architectural feel is similar at all of our light-filled locations, and we offer the same curriculum at each spot.
School Year Calendar
We follow the NYC public school calendar, with a few exceptions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Please click below for more information about the maternelle.
Accreditations
Smith Street Maternelle is licensed by the New York City Department of Health and as of 2023 has been granted full accreditation from NAEYC. Smith Street Maternelle is a proud member of the Independent Schools Admissions Association of Greater New York (ISAAGNY).