Phone: +1 (917) 409-2888

Day Care MOLOKO

for 2 and 3 y/o children


A full-time Russian language Immersion Daycare for 2-4 y/o children on the Upper West Side of Manhattan

Admissions
Academic calendar 2024-2025 Academic calendar 2025-2026
At MOLOKO, group placement is based on your child’s age as of September 1, 2025. If your child is already 2 years old on that date (but not yet 3), they’ll join the 2+ group. If they’re 3 or older, they’ll be placed in the 3+ group. And if they’re 4 or older, they’ll be part of the 4+ group. This approach helps us create the most developmentally appropriate environment for each age group. Within the first month or so, our teachers will also have the opportunity to assess whether a child might benefit from moving to a different group based on their individual development and sense of comfort.
Daily Schedule
Curriculum
Tuition Fees
Q&A
Daily Schedule
Curriculum
Tuition Fees
Q&A
Daily Schedule
Curriculum
Tuition Fees
Q&A
Ages 2+
A gentle start to lifelong learning
Our toddler program is designed to create a warm, nurturing environment where the youngest children can begin exploring the world through play and discovery. For children 2 years and older, we focus on building a strong sense of security and curiosity while developing essential early-life skills.
Program Highlights:
  • Sensory exploration: Activities with textures, colors, and sounds enhance sensory development and fine motor coordination.
  • Language stimulation: Songs, simple storytelling, and guided conversations support early speech and vocabulary growth.
  • Creative play: Children are encouraged to express themselves through painting, drawing, simple crafts, and music.
  • Movement and rhythm: Age-appropriate physical activities and dancing build gross motor skills and coordination.
  • Free play and outdoor time: Balanced daily routines include both guided play and unstructured time to explore and socialize.
  • Daily circle time: Introduces routines, social connection, and early listening skills in a playful group setting.
This program gently prepares toddlers for more structured learning by fostering independence, emotional security, and a love for discovery.
Ages 3+
Encouraging curiosity through play and purpose
Our 3+ program offers a more structured approach while preserving the wonder and playfulness of early childhood. This stage builds foundational skills across all areas of development, setting the stage for pre-academic learning.
Program Highlights:
  • Language and speech development: Storytelling, puppet shows, rhymes, and speech games develop fluency, vocabulary, and sentence structure.
  • Creative arts and crafts: Activities like painting, clay modeling, and collage build fine motor skills and self-expression.
  • Music and movement: Daily singing, dancing, and rhythm games enhance musicality and body awareness.
  • Nature and world exploration: Hands-on lessons introduce basic concepts in science, nature, and the environment.
  • Introduction to logic and math: Sorting, matching, counting, and basic puzzles encourage early math and problem-solving skills.
  • Physical play: Both indoor and outdoor activities support balance, agility, and coordination.
  • Emotional and social development: Emphasis on cooperative play, empathy, turn-taking, and building friendships.
This group lays the foundation for school readiness in a playful, loving setting, helping children become confident, curious learners.
Ages 4+
A robust and engaging foundation for school success
Our Pre-K program for 4–5-year-olds offers a comprehensive, full-day experience designed to prepare children academically, socially, and emotionally for kindergarten and beyond. It is led by three dedicated teachers who specialize in key developmental areas.
Core Subjects Taught Daily:
  • Russian language and literacy: Early reading and writing using age-appropriate books and workbooks
  • Mathematics and logic: Foundational math skills, logic games, and critical thinking
  • Science and world discovery: Exploring natural sciences, geography, animals, and more
  • Art and handicrafts: Clay, painting, mixed media, and traditional crafts to enhance creativity and fine motor skills
  • Physical development: Daily activities that support strength, coordination, and a healthy lifestyle
Daily Structure Includes:
  • 3 engaging academic lessons
  • Outdoor play and free play
  • Nutritious snacks and lunch (provided by parents)
  • Quiet rest time
  • Circle time for group connection and reflection
Enrichment & Exploration:
  • Weekly classes in music and theater
  • Montessori Hour: hands-on activities like cooking, sewing, embroidery, and more
  • Seasonal outdoor art projects and educational nature walks
School Readiness Focus: We prioritize developing independence, following multi-step instructions, working from models, collaborating with peers, and completing both academic and real-life tasks with confidence and purpose.
This program offers a vibrant, well-rounded early education experience—nurturing children’s minds, hearts, and hands.
Schedule 2+
Flexible days of enrollment and two different dismissal periods allow parents to work out the a convenient schedule and logistics for their family.
08:30 Arrival, Health Check, Free Play
08:30-09:00 Free Play, Personal Hygiene
09:00-09:30 Enrichment Class (30 min)
09:30-9:45 Morning Snack
9:45-10:30 Enrichment Class (45 min)
10:30-11:30 Outdoor Play Time
11:45-12:00 Story Time and STEM Play
12:00-12:30 Lunch, Personal Hygiene
12:30 EARLY DISMISSAL
12:30-02:30 Quiet Time
02:30-03:00 Free Play, Personal Hygiene
03:00-03:30 Enrichment Class (30 min)
03:30 FULL DAY DISMISSAL
Schedule 3+
Flexible days of enrollment and two different dismissal periods allow parents to work out the a convenient schedule and logistics for their family.
08:30 Arrival, Health Check, Free Play
08:30-09:00 Free Play, Personal Hygiene
09:00-09:30 Enrichment Class (30 min)
09:30-9:45 Morning Snack
9:45-10:30 Outdoor Play Time
10:30-11:45 Enrichment Class (45 min)
11:45-12:00 Story Time and STEM Play
12:00-12:30 Lunch, Personal Hygiene
12:30 EARLY DISMISSAL
12:30-02:30 Quiet Time
02:30-03:00 Free Play, Personal Hygiene
03:00-03:30 Enrichment Class (30 min)
03:30 FULL DAY DISMISSAL
Schedule 4+
Flexible days of enrollment and two different dismissal periods allow parents to work out the a convenient schedule and logistics for their family.
08:30 Arrival, Health Check, Free Play
08:30-09:00 Free Play, Personal Hygiene
09:00-09:15 Circle Time (15 min)
09:15-10:00 Enrichment Class (30 min)
10:00-10:15 Morning Snack
10:15-11:15 Enrichment Class (60 min)
11:30-12:30 Outdoor Play Time Story Time and STEM Play
12:30-01:00 Lunch, Personal Hygiene
01:00 EARLY DISMISSAL
01:00-02:00 Quiet Time
02:00-02:30 Story Time and STEM Play
02:30-03:30 Enrichment Class (60 min)
03:30 FULL DAY DISMISSAL
Question:
Answer:
How often are diapers changed?
As often as needed—every child is different, and we respond to their individual routines.
Yes—but only for full-time enrollment. Full immersion helps them adjust and learn the language. Key instructions will be given in English if needed.
My child doesn’t speak Russian. Can they still attend?
Answer:
Question:
Question:
Answer:
How do you ensure children’s safety?
We follow strict safety protocols, including locked entry doors, window guards, emergency exits, lead testing, and child-safe furniture.
Question:
Answer:
Does my child need to be potty trained?
No. We support the potty training process in partnership with parents when the child is ready.
Each child should have at least one (ideally two) sets of extra clothes at daycare. Teachers will change the child as needed.
What if my child has an accident?
Answer:
Question:
Question:
Answer:
What if my child doesn’t sleep for the full two hours?
Children who don’t fall asleep remain on their beds during quiet time. This helps mental development through restful, creative "boredom," supporting memory, reflection, and emotional growth.
Question:
Answer:
What’s the sleep routine?
After lunch, the lights are dimmed, soft music plays, and Group 2+ has two hours of quiet time.
Question:
Answer:
Where can I read reviews about MOLOKO?
Reviews are available on our website and Google Business listing.
Children sleep on individual sleeping pods with a labeled mattress/pillow/blanket combo and a fitted sheet.
What is the sleeping setup like?
Answer:
Question:
Question:
Answer:
Can I pick up my child early?
Yes! Just let us know ahead of time.
Only individuals authorized in writing by parents.
Who can pick up my child?
Answer:
Question:
Question:
Answer:
What are the payment options?
Tuition can be paid in either two (July 1, Nov 1) or five (July 1, Sept 1, Nov 1, Jan 1, Mar 1) installments.
No refunds. After 40% of tuition is paid, parents may cancel or change enrollment for January–June by notifying us via email by October 15. After that date, full tuition must be paid through the end of the school year.
What is your refund/cancellation policy?
Answer:
Question:
Question:
Answer:
Are make-up days available?
Yes—up to 5 per semester for illness-related absences (for children enrolled fewer than 5 days/week). They must be requested in advance and are subject to availability. Make-up days do not carry over and are non-transferable.
Through the MOLOKO phone line, at drop-off/pick-up, or by scheduling a meeting.
How can I communicate with teachers?
Answer:
Question:
Question:
Answer:
How many children are in each group?
We keep our groups small—usually 10 to 12 children—to ensure individual attention.
We offer a gentle transition with flexible schedules and personalized support to help children adjust smoothly.
How is the adaptation process managed?
Answer:
Question:
Question:
Answer:
How are holidays and birthdays celebrated?
We celebrate major holidays and children’s birthdays in a fun, inclusive way. Parents are welcome to participate or bring treats with advance notice.
Yes, fresh drinking water is always available for children.
Is drinking water available during the day?
Answer:
Question:
Question:
Answer:
Are meals provided?
Parents provide food from home (morning snack and lunch). No nuts allowed. A microwave is available to warm meals if needed.
Children should know how to hold cutlery or eat with their hands. If not, teachers will help them learn. It's not feasible to feed each child individually within the lunch window.
My child doesn’t use a spoon yet—what should I do?
Answer:
Question:
Question:
Answer:
What are the medical requirements for enrollment?
A completed medical form and up-to-date immunizations are required.A completed medical form and up-to-date immunizations are required.
Mild symptoms: Stay home for one day and monitor. If symptoms subside, your child may return. More serious symptoms (fever, cough, fatigue, etc.): Stay home for at least two more days and consult your pediatrician. Returning to class: Children must be rested, active, and non-contagious. Slight residual symptoms (like a light runny nose) are acceptable. Note: Teachers may send a child home if symptoms are too disruptive.
Q: What happens if my child is sick?
Answer:
Question:
FAQ 2+
Question:
Answer:
What is the main focus of the 2+ curriculum?
For a detailed curriculum overview, please visit the Curriculum section on our website. However, it’s important to understand that the primary focus in the 2+ group is on the child’s emotional and social development. This includes easing the transition to group care, building comfort and trust, minimizing separation anxiety, ensuring restful sleep, encouraging active play and movement, and helping children make their first friends. Children also begin learning important social skills—how to share, help others, follow basic rules, and use words to resolve conflicts. At MOLOKO 2+, love and care always come first; the curriculum follows.
Question:
Answer:
Is there a direct way to contact the daycare teachers?
Yes! MOLOKO 2+ offers a dedicated cellphone line for enrolled parents. Teachers can be reached by call or text during daycare hours.
No, but every classroom door has a window so parents can observe from outside.
Is there video surveillance?
Answer:
Question:
Question:
Answer:
Question:
Answer:
My child doesn’t speak Russian. Can they still attend?
Yes—but only for full-time enrollment. Full immersion helps them adjust and learn the language. Key instructions will be given in English if needed.
How often are diapers changed?
As often as needed—every child is different, and we respond to their individual routines.
Yes—but only for full-time enrollment. Full immersion helps them adjust and learn the language. Key instructions will be given in English if needed.
My child doesn’t speak Russian. Can they still attend?
Answer:
Question:
Question:
Answer:
How do you ensure children’s safety?
We follow strict safety protocols, including locked entry doors, window guards, emergency exits, lead testing, and child-safe furniture.
Question:
Answer:
Does my child need to be potty trained?
Yes, students in the 3+ group are expected to be potty trained. If your child is new to MOLOKO and not yet trained, we’ll begin the process in partnership with you right away.
Each child should have at least one (ideally two) sets of extra clothes at daycare. Teachers will change the child as needed.
What if my child has an accident?
Answer:
Question:
Question:
Answer:
What if my child doesn’t sleep during the rest time?
Children who don’t fall asleep remain on their beds during quiet time. This helps mental development through restful, creative "boredom," supporting memory, reflection, and emotional growth.
Question:
Answer:
What’s the sleep routine?
After lunch, lights are dimmed and soft music plays. Children in the 3+ group have 1.5 hours of quiet rest time.
Question:
Answer:
Where can I read reviews about MOLOKO?
Reviews are available on our website and Google Business listing.
Children sleep on individual sleeping pods with a labeled mattress/pillow/blanket combo and a fitted sheet.
What is the sleeping setup like?
Answer:
Question:
Question:
Answer:
Can I pick up my child early?
Yes! Just let us know ahead of time.
Only individuals authorized in writing by parents.
Who can pick up my child?
Answer:
Question:
Question:
Answer:
What are the payment options?
Tuition can be paid in either two (July 1, Nov 1) or five (July 1, Sept 1, Nov 1, Jan 1, Mar 1) installments.
No refunds. After 40% of tuition is paid, parents may cancel or change enrollment for January–June by notifying us via email by October 15. After that date, full tuition must be paid through the end of the school year.
What is your refund/cancellation policy?
Answer:
Question:
Question:
Answer:
Are make-up days available?
Yes—up to 5 per semester for illness-related absences (for children enrolled fewer than 5 days/week). They must be requested in advance and are subject to availability. Make-up days do not carry over and are non-transferable.
Through the MOLOKO phone line, at drop-off/pick-up, or by scheduling a meeting.
How can I communicate with teachers?
Answer:
Question:
Question:
Answer:
How many children are in each group?
Groups include up to 15 children.
We offer a gentle transition with flexible schedules and personalized support to help children adjust smoothly.
How is the adaptation process managed?
Answer:
Question:
Question:
Answer:
How are holidays and birthdays celebrated?
We celebrate major holidays and children’s birthdays in a fun, inclusive way. Parents are welcome to participate or bring treats with advance notice.
Yes, fresh bottled spring water is available to children at all times.
Is drinking water available during the day?
Answer:
Question:
Question:
Answer:
Are meals provided?
Parents provide a morning snack and lunch from home. Please note: no nuts are allowed. A microwave is available to warm meals if necessary.
Question:
Answer:
What are the medical requirements for enrollment?
A completed medical form and up-to-date immunizations are required for all students.
  • Mild symptoms: Keep your child home for one day to monitor. If symptoms improve, they may return the next day.
  • More serious symptoms (fever, fatigue, cough, etc.): Stay home for at least two additional days and consult your pediatrician.
  • Returning to class: Children must be rested, energetic, and past the contagious phase. Slight lingering symptoms (e.g., a light runny nose) are okay.
  • Note: Teachers may ask a child to go home if symptoms interfere with learning or group participation.
What happens if my child is sick?
Answer:
Question:
FAQ 3+
Question:
Answer:
Is there a direct way to contact the daycare teachers?
Yes! MOLOKO 2+ offers a dedicated cellphone line for enrolled parents. Teachers can be reached by call or text during daycare hours.
No, but every classroom door has a window so parents can observe from outside.
Is there video surveillance?
Answer:
Question:
Unfortunately, no. The 4+ curriculum is conducted entirely in Russian and is designed for fluent or native speakers.
My child doesn’t speak Russian. Can they still attend?
Answer:
Question:
Question:
Answer:
Does my child need to be potty trained?
Yes, all children in the 4+ group are expected to be fully potty trained.
Each child should have at least one (ideally two) sets of extra clothes at daycare. Teachers will change the child as needed.
What if my child has an accident?
Answer:
Question:
Question:
Answer:
What if my child doesn’t sleep during the rest time?
Children who don’t fall asleep remain quietly on their beds. This calm period supports cognitive and emotional development through quiet reflection and imagination.
Question:
Answer:
Where can I read reviews about MOLOKO?
Reviews are available on our website and Google Business listing.
After lunch, the 4+ group has one hour of quiet rest time. Each child has their own sleeping pod with a labeled mattress, pillow, blanket, and fitted sheet.
What’s the quiet time routine?
Answer:
Question:
Question:
Answer:
Can I pick up my child early?
Yes! Just let us know ahead of time.
Only individuals authorized by the parents may pick up a child.
Who can pick up my child?
Answer:
Question:
Question:
Answer:
What are the payment options?
Tuition can be paid in either two (July 1, Nov 1) or five (July 1, Sept 1, Nov 1, Jan 1, Mar 1) installments.
No refunds. After 40% of tuition is paid, parents may cancel or change enrollment for January–June by notifying us via email by October 15. After that date, full tuition must be paid through the end of the school year.
What is your refund/cancellation policy?
Answer:
Question:
Question:
Answer:
Are make-up days available?
Yes—up to 5 per semester for illness-related absences (for children enrolled fewer than 5 days/week). They must be requested in advance and are subject to availability. Make-up days do not carry over and are non-transferable.
Through the MOLOKO phone line, at drop-off/pick-up, or by scheduling a meeting.
How can I communicate with teachers?
Answer:
Question:
Question:
Answer:
How many children are in each group?
Groups include up to 15 children.
We offer a gentle transition with flexible schedules and personalized support to help children adjust smoothly.
How is the adaptation process managed?
Answer:
Question:
Question:
Answer:
How are holidays and birthdays celebrated?
We celebrate major holidays and children’s birthdays in a fun, inclusive way. Parents are welcome to participate or bring treats with advance notice.
Yes, fresh bottled spring water is available to children at all times.
Is drinking water available during the day?
Answer:
Question:
Question:
Answer:
Are meals provided?
Parents provide a morning snack and lunch from home. Please note: no nuts are allowed. A microwave is available to warm meals if necessary.
Question:
Answer:
What are the medical requirements for enrollment?
A completed medical form and up-to-date immunizations are required for all students.
  • Mild symptoms: Keep your child home for one day to monitor. If symptoms improve, they may return the next day.
  • More serious symptoms (fever, fatigue, cough, etc.): Stay home for at least two additional days and consult your pediatrician.
  • Returning to class: Children must be rested, energetic, and past the contagious phase. Slight lingering symptoms (e.g., a light runny nose) are okay.
  • Note: Teachers may ask a child to go home if symptoms interfere with learning or group participation.
What happens if my child is sick?
Answer:
Question:
FAQ 4+
Question:
Answer:
Is there a direct way to contact the daycare teachers?
Yes! MOLOKO 2+ offers a dedicated cellphone line for enrolled parents. Teachers can be reached by call or text during daycare hours.
No, but every classroom door has a window so parents can observe from outside.
Is there video surveillance?
Answer:
Question:
Tuition Fees 2+
The numbers below represent the tuition fees for
the 10-month school year, which include school recesses, holidays, and days off
HALF-DAY
8:30-12:30
FULL DAY
8:30-3:30
3 days a week enrollment - $13,160
4 days a week enrollment - $16,604
5 days a week enrollment - $19,725
3 days a week enrollment - $20,402
4 days a week enrollment - $24,317
5 days a week enrollment - $27,306
Tuition Fees 3+
The numbers below represent the tuition fees for
the 10-month school year, which include school recesses, holidays, and days off
HALF-DAY
8:30-12:30
FULL DAY
8:30-3:30
3 days a week enrollment - $13,160
4 days a week enrollment - $16,604
5 days a week enrollment - $19,725
3 days a week enrollment - $20,402
4 days a week enrollment - $24,317
5 days a week enrollment - $27,306
Tuition Fees 4+
The numbers below represent the tuition fees for
the 10-month school year, which include school recesses, holidays, and days off
HALF-DAY
8:30-12:30
FULL DAY
8:30-3:30
3 days a week enrollment – $14,486
4 days a week enrollment – $18,248
5 days a week enrollment – $21,312
3 days a week enrollment - $20,402
4 days a week enrollment - $24,317
5 days a week enrollment - $27,306

Admissions


The introduction to the MOLOKO program and admissions process consists of the following steps:

  • Filling out the Contact Form. The information in the form allows us to determine the overall level of the child and prepare the correct information for follow-up communication.
  • Initial phone call. After we review the information provided in the Contact Form, we will reach out to schedule an initial phone call and discuss the program in more detail.
  • School tour & evaluation meeting. After a phone call, we schedule a meeting to give the family a tour and to meet our potential student.
  • Trial class. Based on the evaluation meeting results, we offer a parent a trial class in the program (usually 2 hours long from 8:30 to 10:30 am). A parent may choose to leave the child when they seem calm and engaged in the group activity or stay for the entirety of the class. It is recommended to leave the child with the group for at least half the time for better adaptation in the following weeks.
  • Contract signing. If both the family and the Studio are ready to move forward with the child's enrollment, we email an e-contract to the parent for execution.
  • Tuition fee payment. The Studio uses QuickBooks for tuition fee payments, and pledges are delivered via email. Parents have the option to pay with a Credit Card (2.9% fee) or Bank Wire (1% fee). The Studio does not accept payments via PayPal, Venmo, Zelle, paper checks, cash, etc.
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