Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Trusted Early Childhood Education Since 1968
Founded in 1968 by educator Nancy Brophy, Tom Thumb Preschool has dedicated over five decades to pioneering early childhood education. Our programs, designed for children aged 18 months to 5th grade, combine structured learning with play-based exploration to foster intellectual, emotional, and social development. With licensed educators and specialists in music, art, and physical education, we deliver a holistic curriculum that prepares students for kindergarten and beyond. Our campus features custom classrooms, three playgrounds, and a gymnasium, supporting a dynamic learning environment.Recognized for affordability and excellence, we serve Lakeland School District families through preschool, after-school care, and summer enrichment programs. Our commitment to continuous curriculum innovation ensures age-appropriate critical thinking development and lifelong learning skills. As a licensed New York State institution, we maintain rigorous standards while keeping tuition accessible. Over 11,000 graduates attest to our proven track record of educational success, with alumni consistently identified as confident, prepared learners in elementary school and beyond.
Services
Preschool Program
ThumBelina Program
After-School Care
Summer Camp
Curriculum Development
Parent Workshops
Enrichment Activities
Kindergarten Readiness
Child Development
Educational Consulting
Details
- Year established: 1968
Highlights and features
- Over 57 years of proven success in early childhood education
- Licensed educators with specialized training in child development
- Custom-designed curriculum combining structured learning and play
- Comprehensive programs from toddler through elementary age
- Recognized for affordability and exceptional educational value
Associations and certifications
- New York Office of Children and Family Services
What people say
Exceptional educators
Wonderful learning environment
Great preparation for school
Caring staff
Engaging curriculum
Services
Preschool Program
Our preschool program serves children aged 3-5 years with a curriculum focused on kindergarten readiness. Through structured lessons and play-based learning, we develop critical thinking, social skills, and academic foundations. Certified teachers implement custom-designed classrooms and specialized activities in music, art, and science.
ThumBelina Program
Designed for two-year-olds, this program uses play-based learning to develop early cognitive, physical, and social skills. Children must be two years old by November 30th, with flexible enrollment options supporting early childhood development through structured activities and exploration.
After-School Care
Our Stay and Play Safely Club provides before and after-school care for Lakeland District students in kindergarten through 5th grade. The program offers homework assistance, recreational activities, and a secure environment on our main campus with extended hours from 6:50 AM to 5:30 PM.
Summer Camp
Catch Us If You Can summer camp serves children aged 3.5 through 5th grade with daily outdoor activities and educational enrichment. The program provides structured play, skill development, and social interaction during school breaks while maintaining our educational philosophy through seasonal programming.
Curriculum Development
Our proprietary curriculum combines best practices from multiple educational systems with 57 years of experience. Regular updates ensure age-appropriate content covering core academic skills, social development, and creative expression through music, art, and physical education.
People
Nancy Brophy
Founder
Nancy Brophy established Tom Thumb in 1968 after teaching in Lakeland School District. As director for 54 years, she developed the school's unique curriculum emphasizing play-based learning and kindergarten readiness through continuous innovation and professional development.
Shawn Brophy
Owner
Shawn Brophy carries forward the family educational legacy as current owner. With decades of experience in early childhood education, he maintains the school's commitment to excellence while overseeing facility improvements and program expansions since taking leadership.
Questions
What age requirements exist for enrollment?
We accept children aged 18 months through 5th grade. Specific programs require: ThumBelina (2 years by Nov 30), Preschool (3-5 years), After-School Care (K-5th grade).
What are your operating hours?
School programs operate Monday-Friday 6:50 AM to 5:30 PM. Summer camp hours vary seasonally. Appointments for tours are available same-day upon request.
How do you prepare children for kindergarten?
Our curriculum develops age-appropriate critical thinking, social skills, and academic foundations through structured lessons and play-based learning. Over 57 years of experience ensures proven kindergarten readiness outcomes.
What special programs do you offer?
We provide ThumBelina toddler program, Stay and Play after-school care, Catch Us If You Can summer camp, and specialized enrichment activities in music, art, and physical education.
Are meals provided during programs?
Students bring their own snacks and lunches. Special events may include themed meals, but daily nutrition remains the responsibility of families with storage/refrigeration available on campus.
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