Frequently asked questions
Browse through the questions and answers below. You may find the answers you are looking for as well.
How old does my child need to be to attend the Dillon Center?
Children must turn 2 before they can attend the Dillon Center. If there are spots available, children can start the school year in a month other than September.
How do I register my child?
Complete information on how to register can be found on our website at dillon.sjny.edu/enroll.
Do you offer half days? Do you offer extended hours?
We offer a limited number of half day spots (8:30-11:30 a.m.), as well as an After School program.
How do you handle separation?
We know saying goodbye can be difficult, especially with young children. We have a very gentle phase-in process, that occurs over a week, which is designed to help families and their caregivers feel comfortable with separating. Parents are also welcome to observe their children from the observation booths located in all of our classrooms.
What philosophy does the Dillon Center follow?
The Dillon Child Study Center is committed to the child development approach to the education of young children. Each child’s development is fostered in all areas — physical, social, intellectual, emotional and moral — as they follow a unique pattern in the predictable sequence of growth. During the critical early childhood years, children need to become secure, confident, self-directed persons who can understand their world through activities involving focused attention, observation, exploration, problem solving and cooperative action.
A child’s uniqueness is appreciated by early childhood specialists who plan the curriculum to meet the needs and interests of each individual. The child explores the world through play, literature, music, observation and the manipulation of a wide range of materials.
It is by doing the ordinary that children are exposed to the extraordinary wonder of learning as opposed to rote or drill activities. In an atmosphere where children are free to express their feelings and ideas, the child develops a sense of self-awareness and an understanding of interpersonal relations while expanding concepts, language and motor skills.
Is the Dillon Center a religious school?
No, we do not have a religious affiliation. We do follow the St. Joseph’s University vision of an ethics-based education that prepares students for lives of integrity, intellectual and spiritual values, social responsibility and service.
Do you offer financial aid?
No, but we have managed to keep Dillon’s tuition costs low to help make us an affordable option for families.
Does the Dillon Center follow the Department of Education’s calendar?
Mostly, but since we are a teaching university, we base our calendar on the St. Joseph’s University Brooklyn calendar, so there may be a few differences. View our calendar.
What schools do children attend after they complete kindergarten at the Dillon Center?
Our alumni have attended: The Packer Collegiate Institute; Brooklyn Friends School; Berkeley Carroll; St. Anne’s School; Blue School; and a variety of area public and charter schools.
Does the Dillon Center provide services for children with special needs?
Yes we do. Please visit our special education page for more information.