LONG ISLAND CITY

-47th Road-

BunnyHill (47th Rd.) provides a Reggio Emilia inspired education for children for ages 2-5 years. The continuity from our infant-toddler through the preschool years supports our children and teachers in building community and culture in the early childhood classrooms. Teachers continue to practice guided observations to inform the development of an emergent curriculum, led by the interests and passions of the children. The process of co-constructing curriculum invites an exchange of ideas, meaningful discussions, and active participation by teachers and children. With a strong focus on classroom aesthetics, experimentation, and multiple communication modalities, we support children in encountering and enjoying early learning experiences.

Facilities

Gardan

Rooftop

Piazza

Library

Classrooms

Ocean, Desert, Forest

Rooms

Private 2 years old

We know that our 2 years old will be jumping into 3s program at the end of their school year at the 11th street location, and are ready to develop stronger independence and self-reliance skills. Our Reggio Emilia emergent curriculum is designed to promote our children's' growth and confidence.

Sunrise, Rainbow, Sky, Arctic Rooms

3-K Program

BunnyHill incorporates the Reggio Emilia approach smoothly into the DOE Creative Curriculum by providing numerous student-driven, multi-sensory experiences every day. We value our LIC environment and our many represented cultures and use these to drive instruction. Simultaneously, we realize that this is a critical time for children to develop independence and empathy, and stress social and emotional growth in our small and large group settings within the classroom.

Star, Cloud, Galaxy

Room

4-K Program

We know that our big bunnies will be jumping into Kindergarten at the end of their school year and are ready to develop stronger independence and self-reliance skills. Our Pre-K class curriculum is designed to promote our students' growth and confidence and Kindergarten readiness.

Summer Camp

2-5 years old

As a continuation of our school year curriculum, our summer camp offers a fun-filled, enriched summer program for the months of July and August! Each week our little tots and preschoolers jump into action, playing with water in local parks, participating in exciting activities and special themed events such as Mr. Softie ice cream party, trips to the pizzeria, fire house visits, plaxall art gallery, and Smiling hogshead ranch! Our camp program will inspire your child’s mind to engage, explore, create and stay active during the summer!

Directors

Ms. Elizabeth Kaftan is the Director of Bunny Hill Infant and Toddler Center in Long Island City. She was awarded her Bachelor’s degree in Art History from Vassar College, and has completed a Master’s Degree in Art History from UC Santa Barbara, as well as a Master’s Degree in Curriculum and Instruction, with a minor in Elementary Mathematics from Sam Houston State University. She is NYS Certified in Early Childhood education, and has over fourteen years of experience teaching on the Early Childhood level, including preschool, kindergarten, second, and third grades, in the public school system as well as in private school settings in New York and Texas. Having raised three children herself, she believes that the natural curiosity and enthusiasm of children should be nurtured and challenged in an environment rich in varied experiences, both social and academic.

Ms. Trisha Mapili is the Director of Bunny Hill Preschool Center in Long Island City. She was awarded her Bachelor’s degree in Women's Studies and Childhood Education from Queens College, and has completed a Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education for Students with Disabilities from Touro College. She is NYS Certified in Childhood Education, Early Childhood Education and Students with Disabilities (B-2). She has been a UPK teacher at Bunny Hill for five years. Her experience as a Pre-K teacher sparked her passion for early childhood education and development. As the education director, she hopes to encourage student-led practices amongst her classrooms based on their needs and interests, while incorporating her love for the natural world into meaningful learning opportunities.

Ms. Yolanda Jiang is the Director of Administration at Bunny Hill Preschool in Long Island City. With over five years of experience at Bunny Hill Preschool and Gantry View School, she brings a strong background in early childhood education, school operations, and educational leadership.

Ms. Yolanda pursued her studies in Integrated Marketing at New York University (NYU) and holds a Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education and Special Education. Her interdisciplinary background in education, marketing, and communication provides her with a unique perspective on school leadership, family engagement, and community building.

Throughout her career, Ms. Yolanda has been dedicated to creating nurturing, inclusive, and engaging learning environments where children can thrive. She is passionate about fostering meaningful partnerships between families and educators, supporting teachers' professional growth, and ensuring that every child receives a high-quality early childhood education. Her thoughtful, collaborative approach reflects her commitment to building a warm and supportive school community at Bunny Hill.

Ms. Zally has nine years of experience in childcare and early childhood education, bringing a passion for inspiring young learners and fostering a nurturing, engaging classroom environment. She studied Early Childhood Education and Sociology at Queens College, developing a strong understanding of child development, social relationships, and community. Throughout her career, Ms. Zally has worked with children of various age groups at Bunny Hill Preschool and in public school settings, gaining valuable experience in supporting diverse learning needs and developmental stages. She specializes in creating hands-on, art-inspired learning experiences that spark curiosity, encourage creativity, and nurture children's natural love for exploration and discovery.