Kindergarten
Each day brings new discoveries in Kindergarten.
Kindergarten is the critical first step of the 13-year BASIS Independent journey. At BASIS Independent Manhattan, our Kindergarten program on the Upper West Side is where Fearless Thinking takes root. Children build confidence to ask questions, explore ideas, and connect with others. Through hands-on learning, dedicated teachers, and plenty of time to play, children experience the delight of learning and discover just how much they’re capable of.
Nurturing Curiosity, Readiness, and Confidence
Our kindergartners focus on more formal learning—building literacy and math skills and connecting what they know to new concepts in social studies and science. By year’s end, they are acquiring Grade 1 skills, providing the readiness and confidence they need to succeed.
Teaching that Helps Students Embrace New Things
With two teachers in every classroom and a 10:1 student-to-teacher ratio, students receive the attention and encouragement they need to feel comfortable taking chances, trying new things, building social skills, and finding their own voice.
Making Time for Play, Connection, and Laughter
Kindergarten should feel like Kindergarten. With daily opportunities for recess, movement , play, and time with friends, our young students have plenty of space to be carefree—to connect, laugh, recharge, and simply be kids.
Discovering New Ways to Explore
Subject Expert Teachers introduce students to visual and performing arts, music, Mandarin, engineering, physical education, and more—enabling young learners to experience the excitement of discovering something new and find more paths to explore what sparks their interest.
Kindergarten Program FAQ
Children must turn five by September 1 in the year they enter Kindergarten. Visit our Admissions Overview for application requirements and next steps.
Yes. BASIS Independent Manhattan offers full-day Kindergarten. Complimentary Early Bird care is available before school, and fee-based Late Bird care is available until 6:00 PM. Contact our Admissions team for the Kindergarten daily schedule and extended-care details.
At BASIS Independent Manhattan, Kindergarten students build literacy, math, and social skills while working toward Grade 1 skills. This provides a strong foundation as they progress through our Primary Program.
Our Kindergarten classrooms at BASIS Independent Manhattan use a two-teacher model, giving children the encouragement and attention they need to feel comfortable trying new things, building social skills, and finding their own voice.
BASIS Independent Manhattan offers a fee-based transportation program with morning and afternoon bus service. Routes are planned each school year. Contact our Admissions team to confirm Kindergarten eligibility and service to your neighborhood.
Visit the BASIS Independent Manhattan Admissions Overview to review Kindergarten application steps, requirements, and deadlines. You can also schedule a school visit or contact our Admissions team with questions.