Our curriculum is thoughtfully designed to promote holistic development, encouraging cognitive, social, emotional, and physical growth through a variety of engaging activities. We believe in the power of play-based learning, allowing children to explore, discover, and learn at their own pace. Parents are also considered an integral part of our community, and we welcome their involvement through regular communication and participation in school events. At Stepping Stones, we are committed to nurturing the potential of every child, preparing them for a bright and promising future.
At Stepping Stones, we believe that the early years are the most important years. Our experienced teachers create a warm, structured environment where children feel safe to explore, ask questions, and grow — at their own pace, every single day.
A safe, nurturing environment where every child is known, valued, and encouraged to reach their full potential.
Our staff hold Early Childhood Education certifications and bring years of hands-on classroom experience to every child, every day.
We maintain strict health, hygiene, and security standards so you can drop off with confidence every single morning.
From 2-year-old Toddler care through Pre-K, After School, and Summer Camp, we grow alongside your family every step of the way.
Since 2002, Stepping Stones has been a cornerstone of Bay Ridge, building lasting bonds between families, children, and educators.
A licensed early childhood facility serving Brooklyn families since 2002 — built on the belief that every child deserves a safe, nurturing place to grow.
Stepping Stones at 245 86th Street offers a Toddler, 3-K, After-School, and Summer Camp program. Stepping Stones – The Next Step at 9321 Ridge Blvd provides a Pre-K program for four-year-olds.
Since 2021, we have partnered with the New York Early Education Center (NYCEEC) to provide free 3-K and Pre-K programs through the NYC Department of Education, ensuring high-quality early childhood education is accessible to every family in our community.
Both locations are licensed by the New York City Department of Mental Health and Hygiene. Our teachers are highly qualified, boasting diverse educational backgrounds and extensive experience in early childhood education — and both locations share the same standard of care we affectionately call family.
Our philosophy centers on play-based learning — the idea that children learn best when they are free to explore, discover, and make sense of the world at their own pace. Every activity, every center, and every daily routine is designed with the whole child in mind: cognitive, social, emotional, and physical growth all happen together.
Classroom centers — offered twice daily — are the heart of our curriculum. From music and art to dramatic play, science, sensory exploration, and outdoor activities, children engage in experiences that build independence, confidence, and a genuine love of learning. Centers are regularly updated and rotated based on children's interests, keeping the environment fresh and responsive.
Our daily schedules are thoughtfully structured to help children transition smoothly from one activity to the next, creating an organized, predictable environment where children feel secure. Teachers receive ongoing training through monthly director sessions and the Early Childhood Education and Training Program through Albany.
Parents are an integral part of our community. We maintain open communication through weekly newsletters, parent-teacher conferences, and regular school events — because the best outcomes for children happen when school and home work together.
Stepping Stones was founded by two educators who believed every child deserves a warm, nurturing place to begin their journey. Their vision — and their dedication — continue to shape everything we do.
Director & Co-Founder
Dawn holds a Bachelor of Arts from St. Joseph's College and a Master of Arts in Education from St. John's University. She began her career as a head teacher at a small nursery school in Brooklyn, where she spent five years working with children aged two to four. She then taught 3rd grade in a New York City public school, taking on leadership roles including grade leader and model classroom teacher as part of the America's Choice Comprehensive School Reform program.
As co-founder and co-director of Stepping Stones, Dawn oversees day-to-day operations, curriculum planning, parent education, and staff development. She conducts regular training sessions focused on innovative teaching methods and leads monthly staff meetings to keep teachers aligned on best practices.
Dawn resides in Bay Ridge with her husband Keith and their three children. Outside of school, she enjoys cooking, traveling with her family, and staying active in her community.
Director & Co-Founder
Rosanna holds a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education and a Master of Science in Education. She began her career teaching upper grades in public school, where she served as a grade leader and collaborated with fellow teachers on curriculum planning. That experience deepened her commitment to early childhood education and inspired her to co-found Stepping Stones.
As co-founder and co-director, Rosanna plays a central role in curriculum design alongside Dawn, with a strong emphasis on nurturing early learners and supporting teachers through ongoing professional development. She advocates for integrating innovative practices into the classroom and ensures Stepping Stones stays current with the latest trends in early childhood education.
Rosanna enjoys traveling with her husband and their three daughters — experiences she draws on to bring new perspectives into her educational philosophy.
Our dedicated teachers and staff are the heart of our center. With a passion for early childhood education and a commitment to every child's growth, our team creates a caring, supportive, and enriching environment where children feel valued, encouraged, and excited to learn each day.
Read Bio
Read Bio
Read Bio
Read Bio
Read Bio
Read Bio
Read Bio
Read Bio
Read Bio
Read Bio
Read Bio
Read Bio
Read Bio
Read Bio
Read Bio
Read Bio
Read Bio
Read Bio
Nothing means more to us than the trust of our families. We're proud to create a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment where children can learn, grow, and thrive every day. Hear directly from parents about their experiences, the care their children receive, and the meaningful relationships built within our community.