Enrollment
Education should celebrate the wisdom of each child.
At Northern Dutchess Day Care, we nurture the whole child through a program that engages the body, mind, and heart. Rooted in creativity and respect for individual growth, our curriculum focuses not on molding children, but on unfolding each unique learner. Helping children discover who they are—and their connection to the world around them—is at the heart of all we do.
Our program includes:
Creative educational activities and projects
Natural indoor classroom environment
Expansive outdoor learning spaces
Vegetable and flower gardens
Staff certified in CPR and First Aid
Coming Soon!
With the support of your donations, we’re expanding to include a brand-new infant classroom opening Spring 2026.
Sprouts
6 – 17 Months
Seedlings
18 months – 2.5 years
Our Seedlings are the youngest members of our community, ages 18 to 30 months. In this nurturing environment, teachers gently guide children through the transition from home to school. We focus on building friendships, learning to share, and navigating big feelings with care. Through play and exploration in nature, children begin developing age-appropriate skills while discovering the wonders of the forest around them.
Saplings
Late twos to early threes
Saplings are typically between 30 and 36 months old. As they grow toward age three, our young artists, scientists, and explorers begin to emerge. Language blossoms, and fine and gross motor skills develop rapidly through hands-on experiences like planting, observing wildlife, and storytelling. We support each child’s growth with care and assist families with potty training when they’re ready.
Forest Friends
Montessori-Style Mixed Age Class
3–5 years
Forest Friends is our Montessori-style mixed age classroom for children ages 3 to 5. Mixed age groupings—a hallmark of Montessori education—encourage confidence, collaboration, and holistic preschool development.
In our extensive Outdoor Classroom, Forest Friends are free to explore, create, and grow together. From storytelling in the Bird’s Nest to climbing their beloved hill, children discover the daily treasures that nature offers while building essential skills through shared experience and imaginative play.
How to Enroll
Thinking about enrolling your little one?
Take a look at the FAQs below, then fill out the interest form.
We’ll reach out by email or phone to guide you through the next steps.
Program & Enrollment FAQs
Or view the Family Info Packet here.
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To begin the enrollment process, please complete our Enrollment Interest Form. If a space is available, you'll receive an email invitation to join Brightwheel, our secure parent portal.
Once enrolled, you'll be asked to complete all required forms through Brightwheel. These are also available for reference in our Forms & Documents section.
A $100 non-refundable registration fee and the first two weeks of tuition are due at the time of enrollment. If you need to withdraw or adjust your child’s schedule, we ask that you provide at least two weeks’ notice.
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Tuition is billed every two weeks through Brightwheel and is required for all scheduled days — including absences and holidays.
You can pay online through Brightwheel or by check at drop-off or pick-up. A $10 late fee applies after three days past the due date. Returned checks incur a $30 fee.
In the event of illness, full tuition is due for the first 10 consecutive days. With a doctor’s note, days 11–20 may be waived. After 20 days, a 50% tuition rate applies to hold your child’s spot.
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All children must have a current physical and up-to-date immunization record on file. Staff conduct daily health checks at drop-off.
Children showing signs of illness — such as fever (100.6°F or higher), vomiting, or diarrhea — must be picked up and remain home until they are symptom-free for at least 24 hours without medication.
In the case of COVID-like symptoms or exposure, a doctor’s note and negative test result may be required for return. We notify families promptly if there is a contagious illness in the classroom.
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We are open Monday through Friday, 7:30 am to 5:30 pm. Children must be picked up by 5:20 pm to allow for end-of-day routines.
We are closed on major holidays, two Parent-Teacher Conference Days (in December and May), and two one-week breaks, usually the last week of June and the last week of August, for teacher work weeks.
For inclement weather or emergencies, we follow the Rhinebeck Central School District and notify families via Brightwheel. We no longer post closures via local media or radio. If families cannot access Brightwheel, they may call the Rhinebeck School District at 845-871-5500 for updates.
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Children should arrive dressed for the weather and ready to play outdoors.
Families must provide two snacks (morning and mid-afternoon) and a packed lunch.
A labeled crib sheet, blanket, and comfort item for rest time (launder weekly)
Two complete, labeled changes of clothing should be kept in the child’s cubby for accidents or weather changes.
Closed-toe shoes for outdoor play (no sandals)
Seasonal Items:
Winter: Snow pants, snow boots, warm jacket, hat, and mittens
Summer: Water shoes, swimsuit, and towel
Please label everything and avoid sending toys unless specifically requested by your child’s teacher.
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We use Brightwheel for all daily communication, including:
Photos and updates from the classroom
Messaging with your child’s teacher or the Director
Billing and payment notifications
Alerts about closures or important reminders
You’ll receive an email invite to create your Brightwheel account after your enrollment is confirmed. Make sure your contact info is up to date and check the app regularly. We view families as partners and encourage open communication throughout the year.
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Only individuals authorized in Brightwheel may pick up your child. Staff will request a photo ID if they do not recognize the person.
Please send a Brightwheel message if someone different will be picking up your child.
CHILDREN MUST BE PICKED UP BY 5:20 P.M.
The Center closes at 5:30 p.m. to allow teachers time to secure the building and depart.A $10 late fee will be charged for every 15 minutes after 5:20 p.m. that your child remains at the Center.
Interest Form
Calendar
Planned Closures
New Year’s Eve
New Year’s Day
Juneteenth
Last week of June (training)
Memorial Day
Independence Day
Last Week of August (training)
Labor Day
Day after Labor Day (training)
Thanksgiving Day
Day after Thanksgiving
Christmas Eve
Christmas Day
Day after Christmas
Additional Closures:
Two Parent-Teacher Conference Days
(early December and early May)
Unplanned Closings & Delays
We follow the inclement weather schedule of the Rhinebeck Central School District. For all other emergency closings or delays, families will be notified directly by the Day Care through Brightwheel. If there is no response to a Brightwheel alert, we will follow up with a phone call. Email is not used for closure notifications.