Girafas Play & Learn LLC

Specialties

GIRAFAS Play and Learn, the only full-​time Portuguese Immersion Preschool in NYC, designs play-​based programs for children ages 0 to 12. The school welcomes anyone interested in exposing their child to a second language.

The emerging curriculum, inspired by the philosophy of Dr. Maria Montessori, blends the Portuguese language with a variety of activities such as arts, music, storytelling, yoga, cooking, and gardening. The mixed-​age classrooms allow children to learn from each other during independent explorations (curriculum is built on each child’s interests and needs).

GIRAFAS focuses on developing a well-​rounded individual and global citizen that celebrates and respect cultural diversity.

Programs:

— Playgroups for children between the ages of 10 months and 3 years

— Preschool for mixed-​age group 2 – 4

— After school for kids 4 and up

— Summer Camp for kids 2.5−4 and 4 – 8

History

Established in 2010.

GIRAFAS Play & Learn was founded by NYS certified early childhood educator Mônica Rocha. Over a decade of work with children and parents revealed that there was a special opportunity to enhance the learning potential of the Brooklyn youth through a language driven approach. In 2010, GIRAFAS was launched as a Portuguese immersion playgroup. It allowed children and parents to connect and develop stronger relationships through safe, fun, engaging activities, in a supportive and nurturing environment. The program expanded in 2011, and became the first Portuguese immersion preschool in Brooklyn and now in 2014 GIRAFAS became the first full-​time Portuguese Immersion Preschool in NYC!

Meet the Business Owner

Monica R.

Business Owner

Mônica Rocha was born and raised in São Paulo, Brazil. Having chosen teaching as her profession from an early age, Mônica attended and graduated from a specialized high school for early childhood development (CEFAM). At 19 years old, she began her career, teaching English to toddlers, adolescents, and adults at the Fisk Language Institute in São Paulo. In 2004, Mônica moved to New York and her passion for children, education, and arts drove her to pursue her dual NYS certifications in Early Childhood Education and Special Education, as well as a second degree in Arts at Brooklyn College.

The years of practical studies and work in New York City schools, gave Mônica a strong foundation to realize her dream of creating her own program. She wanted to offer children an opportunity to celebrate their differences and similarities through a pleasant and meaningful education. Mônica’s belief is that early childhood experiences are critical to the shaping of an independent and happy adult.