Why WCDC’s 2026 Spring Afterschool Program Is the Best Choice for Westchester Families

Office WCDC
4 days ago
3 min read

A newly upgraded writing, math, STEM, and wellness program for K–5 students in Hartsdale & Scarsdale

Finding the right afterschool program can shape a child’s confidence, academic foundation, and daily happiness. For the 2026 Spring Semester, Westchester Child Development Center (WCDC) is introducing a refreshed, research-based afterschool curriculum designed to support the whole child — academically, creatively, and socially.

If you’re a parent in Hartsdale, Scarsdale, White Plains, Eastchester, or Ardsley, here’s why families love WCDC’s afterschool program.

📍 Location: 210 N Central Avenue, Suite 150, Hartsdale, NY 10530

⏰ Time: 3:00–6:00 PM, Monday–Friday

A Newly Redesigned Monday Writing Program

Writing is one of the most essential skills for school success. This spring, WCDC transformed Monday’s enrichment into a comprehensive English Writing course that uses two exceptional systems:

Great Writing
Writing Source Skillbook

Students learn to brainstorm, build strong sentences, structure paragraphs, and craft clear stories and explanations. Younger students focus on descriptive writing and storytelling; older students work on organization, transition signals, and revision techniques.

This new writing program strengthens literacy, creativity, and confidence — skills that benefit every subject in school.

Stronger Math Foundations with Thursday Singapore Math

WCDC is replacing Math Kangaroo with the globally recognized Singapore Math approach. This shift helps children build true mathematical understanding instead of memorization.

Using the Primary Mathematics curriculum, students learn through:

Visual modeling
Bar-model problem solving
Structured reasoning
Real-world application
Step-by-step conceptual progression

It’s one of the world’s most effective math systems — now available weekly at WCDC.

A More Integrated STEM Science Program on Fridays

WCDC’s Friday STEM program has been redesigned into a multi-disciplinary science curriculum that blends physics, chemistry, biology, and engineering.

Children will explore:

Motion, force, and energy
Chemical changes and reactions
Biology, senses, and nature systems
Engineering and design challenges
Aviation science & flight simulation tasks

It’s hands-on, exciting, and intellectually meaningful — helping students develop scientific reasoning while having fun.

A Balanced Afternoon Schedule for All Ages

Every day includes:

3:00–3:30 PM — Arrival & Snack
3:30–3:50 PM — Quiet Reading / Homework
3:50–4:50 PM — Session 1
4:50–5:50 PM — Session 2
5:50–6:00 PM — Dismissal

To optimize learning:

K–2 start with academics, then activities
Grades 3+ begin with activities, then academics

This rotation matches how children focus and helps ensure a smooth, productive afternoon.

Full WCDC Afterschool Schedule – Spring 2026

Monday – Writing & Wellness

Session 1 (3:50–4:50): Creative Writing Workshop
Session 2 (4:50–5:50): Yoga & Mindfulness

Tuesday – Public Speaking & Dance

Session 1: Public Speaking & Confidence Games
Session 2: Creative Dance & Expression

Wednesday – STEM Robotics & Outdoor Sports

Session 1: LEGO Robotics & STEM Lab
Session 2: Outdoor Sports Challenge

Thursday – Singapore Math & Nature Discovery

Session 1: Primary Singapore Math
Session 2: Nature & Science Discovery Workshop

Friday – Science Explorer & Sports

Session 1: Science Explorer / Maker Lab
Session 2: Outdoor Games & Sports Fun

All classes are taught in small groups (8–10 students) with age-differentiated instruction.

Membership Program for Creative, Active Learners

For families who prefer non-academic enrichment, WCDC also offers a Membership Program with monthly flexibility.

Activities include:

Yoga
Dance
Outdoor play
Reading corner
Arts & crafts
Social games
Nature exploration

A great option for families wanting a holistic and joyful afterschool experience.

Small Class Sizes & School Pickup

WCDC maintains small classes for high-quality instruction.Pickup is available** for nearby schools to support busy families.

Enrollment Now Open — Early Registration Discount

WCDC is now accepting applications for Spring 2026 Afterschool. Enroll for 2+ days/week before December 15 and receive 10% off the entire semester.