Business Details
36 Years
experience
Trusted Preschool & Kindergarten Programs in Chatham, NJ
Founded in 1990, Gingham Giraffe has been dedicated to providing a child-focused, whole-family approach to early childhood education. Our programs cater to children aged 2 through kindergarten, emphasizing academic readiness, social-emotional development, and creative exploration. With small class sizes, experienced teachers, and a six-month age span in every classroom, we tailor our curriculum to meet each child's unique needs. Our team-certified educators specialize in early education, special education, and positive discipline, ensuring a nurturing and structured environment. We offer flexible scheduling, including morning and extended-day options, alongside enriching electives like STEM, drama, and yoga.On-site therapies, a nut-free facility, and comprehensive communication tools reflect our commitment to inclusivity and parental partnership. Our state-licensed, non-denominational programs blend play-based learning with academic rigor, preparing children for lifelong success. With decades of combined experience, our leadership team fosters a school culture that feels like an extended family. Every faculty member maintains CPR and first aid certifications, undergoes rigorous background checks, and participates in ongoing professional development. Our spacious classrooms, shaded playground, and full-sized gymnasium create an ideal setting for holistic growth.
Services
Preschool Programs
Full Day Kindergarten
Electives
Birthday Parties
Summer Camp
Details
- Year established: 1990
Highlights and features
- We offer small class sizes with a student/teacher ratio of 8:1 or better.
- Our certified educators specialize in early childhood development and positive discipline.
- Flexible scheduling includes early drop-off and extended day options until 3 PM.
- On-site speech, occupational, and physical therapy support diverse learning needs.
- Weekly electives in STEM, music, and drama enrich our academic curriculum.
What people say
Adaptive, attentive, communicative
Significant value on integrity
Robustness of the K curriculum
Taught famous artists like Monet
Safe, affordable, and easy
Services
Preschool Programs
Morning and full-day preschool classes for ages 2-5, structured around six-month age spans. Our curriculum combines play-based learning with academic fundamentals, focusing on language, motor skills, and social development. Certified teachers use team teaching to ensure personalized attention and consistent classroom environments.
Full Day Kindergarten
Academic-focused kindergarten program for ages 5-6, bridging preschool and first grade. Includes core subjects like reading and math, plus electives in Spanish, STEM, and fine arts. Small classes with two teachers emphasize individualized instruction and differentiated learning to meet NJ state standards.
Electives
Weekly enrichment activities including STEM, drama, music, yoga, and art. Led by specialized instructors, these classes foster creativity and exploration beyond core academics. Electives are included in extended-day programs for preschoolers and full-day kindergarten students.
Birthday Parties
On-site birthday parties for enrolled students, accommodating up to 20 children. We handle logistics like pizza service, games, and clean-up, while parents provide decorations and treats. Parties occur during or after morning classes for convenience and safety.
Summer Camp
Seasonal summer camp offering continued learning and recreational activities for enrolled students. Combines structured academics with outdoor play and creative projects to maintain developmental progress during school breaks.
People
Gail Smith
Director
Founder of Gingham Giraffe with over 30 years of experience in early childhood education. Certified in special education and positive discipline, she established the school's family-centered philosophy in 1990.
Alison Jackson
Co-Director
Certified Positive Discipline Instructor and daughter of Gail Smith. Brings modern parenting insights to the school's approach while maintaining its founding values. Oversees curriculum development and teacher training programs.
Questions
What age groups do you serve?
We serve children aged 2 through kindergarten, with programs tailored to six-month age spans.
Are meals provided during extended hours?
Students bring lunch from home for extended day options after 1 PM.
Do you offer part-time preschool options?
Yes, we offer morning classes with flexible extended-day choices for part-time schedules.
How does your kindergarten curriculum align with state standards?
Our program follows NJ State Core Curriculum standards using Chatham public school texts.
What safety measures are in place?
We maintain a nut-free facility, CPR-certified staff, and secure drop-off/pickup procedures.
