Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers for families considering Little Mish. Still have a question? Call us at 212-777-9774.
What ages does Little Missionary's Day Nursery accept?
Children from age two through Pre-K/K. For the Twos Program your child must be 2 years old by September 1 of the year they start; for the Threes Program your child can turn 3 any time up to December 31 of the year of entry.
What are the school hours?
The school opens at 8:30 am and the doors close at 9:00 am. The regular day ends at 3:00 pm, Monday through Friday. An optional After School program runs from 3:00 pm to 5:30 pm.
How much is tuition?
Monthly tuition for 2027-2028 is $2,640 for 5 days, $2,250 for 4 days and $1,800 for 3 days a week. After School is $600 (5 days), $540 (4), $440 (3), $370 (2) or $200 (1 day) a month. There is also a materials fee of $800 a year, an enrichment fee of $220 billed twice a year, and a $50 pizza fee billed twice a year.
Is financial aid available?
Yes. Depending on fundraising, the school allots need-based financial assistance. Families receive a financial aid application with their contract and are notified by April of their incoming year.
Is there an application fee?
No. There is no application fee.
Does my child need to be potty trained?
No. Your child does not need to be potty trained to join the Twos Program.
How do I apply?
Complete the online application linked from the Admissions page. The school will then contact you to schedule a School Visit, where you and your child spend time in the classroom and with the Director. There is no formal interview, and there are no essays.
How big are the classes?
Each Twos class has 12 children a day with three teachers. The Twos/Threes and Threes programs have 12 to 15 children, and the 3s/4s and Pre-K/K programs have 15 to 18 children.
Are vaccinations required?
Yes. A health form showing your child is fully vaccinated is required, and exemptions from vaccination are not accepted.
Is the school religious?
No. Little Missionary's Day Nursery is non-denominational and all families are welcome to apply. It is the oldest continuously operating non-sectarian nursery school in New York City, founded in 1896.
Where is the school and how do I get there?
93 St. Mark's Place, New York, NY 10009, between Avenue A and 1st Avenue in the East Village. Nearest subways: F at 1st Street and 1st Avenue, 6 at Astor Place, R at 8th Street and Broadway, L at 14th Street and 1st Avenue/Avenue A. Buses: M15, M8 and M14A.
Is there a summer program?
Yes. The Summer Program runs in July for about five weeks. It is open to Little Mish families and, when space allows, to children who do not attend during the year. Children must be 2 years old to attend.
Do you provide lunch?
Parents provide lunch, which the school can reheat if needed. The school provides healthy snacks such as fresh fruit, yogurt, popcorn and toast, and fresh filtered water throughout the day.
What is the school's approach?
Play-based and emotionally responsive. Director Eileen Johnson's A.R.T. method asks adults to Accept the child's feelings, Reflect them rather than trying to fix them, and Teach skills for managing and communicating feelings.