C&C kindergartners, 1st graders, and 2nd graders build on the foundation of exploration established in the earliest years, growing into increasingly rigorous inquiry while still learning through experiences and driven by the children. Social studies concepts anchor the curriculum, connecting reading, writing, math, science, and the arts to meaningful, real-world contexts that emerge from students’ questions and observations.
The Role of the Teacher
Collaboration becomes more intentional as children learn to share ideas, solve problems together, and take increasing responsibility for their classroom community. Throughout these years, teachers guide and extend learning, nurturing critical thinking, creativity, and a deepening sense of self within the group.
Social Studies
Children investigate concepts that naturally emerge from their surroundings and experiences—such as families, neighborhoods, transportation, and community workers. These studies deepen their understanding of the world while offering rich contexts for interdisciplinary connections. Their learning is most vividly expressed through their work with unit blocks, as their buildings become the backdrop for in-depth social studies research and vivid narratives.
Math
We believe math is best learned through a balance of hands-on, purposeful experiences and intentional, research-proven curriculum and instruction. Our math approach emphasizes exploration through grappling with real-world math problems and communicating mathematical thinking through robust collaboration. We introduce students to mathematical concepts through play and investigation, and then guide students towards mastery of procedural fluency and deep conceptual understanding through continued explicit practice. More about math for kindergarten through 2nd grade.
Literacy
We understand that children develop literacy skills at different times and in different ways. Our teachers expect a wide range of reading and writing abilities and are prepared to meet children wherever they are in their development. Our responsive, research-backed approach combines engaging and diverse language experiences with direct reading instruction differentiated to meet the needs of a variety of readers. We provide just the right amount of challenge to push each child forward, using a structured and systematic program rooted in phonics and comprehension skills. Our goal is to build strong decoding and comprehension skills, confidence, and a deep appreciation for and love of reading and writing.
By the end of second grade, students exceed grade-level reading benchmarks through a balanced approach that combines systematic phonics instruction with deep comprehension strategies, vocabulary development, and text analysis. This approach helps children become confident, thoughtful readers who view reading as both a skill and a source of joy. More about literacy for preschool through 2nd grade.
Social-Emotional Learning
Through classroom routines, group discussions, and shared responsibilities, students practice empathy, active listening, and problem-solving. Teachers help children navigate friendships, express feelings, and develop the confidence to take part in group life. Events like our "Coffee and Conversation" series provide parents time and space with our specialists to discuss specific milestones and aspects of child development.
A Day in the Life:
Starting the day.
The day starts with a Group meeting, where we read the schedule, set goals, and make plans. We’re discussing the last details for our trip this afternoon to the Brooklyn Bridge!
Language arts.
Our teachers and reading specialists lead a thoughtfully designed literacy program that balances the joy of reading with systematic skill development. Through engaging texts, intentional instruction, and individualized support, they help every student build strong comprehension and a lifelong love of reading.
9:15
We've arrived at the Great Bridge.
Field trips provide hands-on opportunities for Groups to engage directly with the vibrant world of New York City. Back in the classroom, children reflect on their experiences, share insights, and deepen their understanding of the world and their place within it.
The folks in the neighbohood see us approaching with our clipboards and questions. Here come the C&C kids, masters of research!
Math.
At C&C, math learning blends skill development with conceptual understanding. Through a balance of direct instruction and integrated exploration across the curriculum, children connect concrete experiences to abstract ideas. This approach helps students see math not just as a set of skills, but as a way to understand and engage with the world around them.
12:30
Back at school, students draw on their notes and observations to begin a recreation of the Brooklyn Bridge using unit blocks. Working collaboratively, they translate real-world structures into models—planning, engineering, and problem-solving along the way.
12:30
Back at school, students draw on their notes and observations to begin a recreation of the Brooklyn Bridge using unit blocks. Working collaboratively, they translate real-world structures into models—planning, engineering, and problem-solving along the way.
12:30
Back at school, students draw on their notes and observations to begin a recreation of the Brooklyn Bridge using unit blocks. Working collaboratively, they translate real-world structures into models—planning, engineering, and problem-solving along the way.
12:30
Back at school, students draw on their notes and observations to begin a recreation of the Brooklyn Bridge using unit blocks. Working collaboratively, they translate real-world structures into models—planning, engineering, and problem-solving along the way.
The yard.
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Not only did Caroline Pratt invent our iconic unit blocks, she also created our outdoor building materials. With the help of a pediatrician, Pratt designed materials that would stretch children’s mental dexterity as well as their physical strength and coordination. |
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Shop. Science. Rhythms. Art.
With each passing year, specials are added to the schedule, expanding children’s school experiences and honing their talents. Expert teachers get to know our students extraordinarily well, facilitating their growth year after year. This instrumental knowledge, deepened over time, helps the children flourish.
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