1.  Can I visit the school with my child?

Individual visits are available. We encourage  you to visit the program with your child.  We do not hold an open house, but do present at the Great Neck and Manhasset Pre-School showcases which are held in October.  To arrange a visit, contact our director, June Anderman-Hahn and you will be given a date and time to visit the school and meet our teachers.  This is the best way to learn about our unique program.

2.  Does my child have to be toilet trained?

No.  In our non-separating classes, parents change their own child in our centrally-located changing area.  At those times when a parent or caregiver is not on-site (during a Twos solo day for instance), the classroom teachers change diapers and/or assist a child in the bathroom.  Many of the children in our Threes program are not trained when they enter school in September.  The Parent Group can be very helpful in this area and it is a frequent topic of conversation.

3.  What if my child cannot separate from me and/or I cannot separate from my child?

No problem.  Open Door prides itself on helping a parent and child begin the gradual and careful process of being apart from one another.  Because each child is unique (as is each parent), there are no deadlines or timelines to be met.  A parent is welcome in the classroom for as long as it takes for their child to connect with the teacher and enjoy their time at Open Door without feeling anxious.  This applies to the parents as well.  More information is available about this important developmental process in the Parenting Topic section.

4.  Is the Parent Group required? Can I send my babysitter in my place?

The Parent Group is considered an integral component of Open Door’s early childhood program.  We believe that supporting the family during this crucial developmental period is vital to the health and well-being of your child.  Due to the personal nature of the topics discussed, and, in an effort to maintain trust and confidentiality within the group, babysitters are not permitted to substitute for a parent.  Fathers and grandparents are welcome.  Babysitters can bring a child to school on those days when the parent group does not meet.

5.  Can my child attend the Summer Program before starting school in September?

The Summer Program is open to in-coming Threes and Twos that have separated in our program. There is also a Mommy and Me, one day a week for incoming Twos who have not separated.  Camp is a 6-week program beginning the last week of June through the  first week of August.  Parents can chose to send their child 3 or 4 days a week from 9:30 -12:00.  Lunch is included.

6.  Do you give financial aid?

Yes, we offer financial aid to families who qualify based on federal guidelines and middle class families with extenuating circumstances.   In addition, special discounts are given to families with multiples when requested.

7.  Are you part of the Great Neck School District?

Great question!  Although we are housed in a former elementary school that is maintained and secured  by the Great Neck School district, we are non-profit non-sectarian agency supported  by  LI United Way, Great Neck United Community Fund, National Council of Jewish Women, Lakeville section and donations from community minded individuals, businesses and banks. 

8. What are the educational qualifications of your staff?

Both the director and parent educator hold Masters degrees in early childhood education and social work.  Our three teachers have degrees in early childhood education.  The entire staff is certified in CPR/Red Cross every two years.  

9. What if my child is allergic and/or has a dietary restrictions for religious or medical reasons.

Open Door is able to accommodate the  dietary needs of our children.  All families are required to have a medical clearance from their physician.  A comprehensive parent questionnaire is given to determine what kinds of snacks will be safe to serve in any class.  

10.  What are your safety and emergency policies?

The Great Neck Public School District (GNPS) provides us with security and custodial services.  Entrance to the building is controlled by an intercom system that requires everyone to identify themselves before gaining access.  In addition, we have regular fire inspections and drills within the building.   We have an emergency disaster plan that is filed with GNPS.  The classroom door is locked at all times and no child is ever released to anyone without authorization from the parent.