ABOUT HONEYDEW
A family-owned daycare nurturing Brooklyn families through play-based, emotionally responsive early childhood education since 1999
"Bees are one of the only species in the animal world
who care for offspring that are not their own"
History
Honeydew Drop began in 1999 in a brownstone home in Park Slope, Brooklyn. Founded by a family of teachers and caregivers, our mission has always been to nurture children with care, creativity, and community connection.
What started as one small classroom has grown into four Brooklyn locations, serving over 90 families each year. Our programs emphasize flexible scheduling, play-based learning, and enrichment classes including yoga, music, movement, and language.
Honeydew Drop also partners with the NYC Department of Education to offer tuition-free 3K and UPK classrooms.
Philosophy
Our approach is grounded in emotional responsiveness and play-based learning. We believe children learn best when they feel seen, heard, and supported.
Each child’s individual needs and interests guide our classrooms — from themed projects to sensory exploration. We partner with families to extend this learning at home, sharing strategies for social-emotional growth, language development, and curiosity-driven play.
Honeydew Drop is an inclusive, welcoming community for families of all backgrounds, genders, and identities.
Leadership
Before founding Honeydew Drop, Fabiola Santos-Gaerlan built a successful 15-year career as a television producer and director. While working on a children’s TV show that took her across the country, she discovered her true passion: creating joyful, imaginative experiences for kids.
When her own children, Gabriel and Casielle, were young, Fabiola dreamed of building a place that combined creativity, care, and community. In 1999, she transformed the first floor of her Park Slope brownstone into what would become Honeydew Drop Early Learning Center — a warm, whimsical space where children could explore, play, and grow.
The name Honeydew reflects both sweetness and the harmony of a beehive — a symbol of connection and collective care. That spirit continues to guide the school today. Fabiola was among the first in Brooklyn to offer flexible scheduling for parents and to introduce enrichment programs like yoga and music, helping families balance work, life, and learning with compassion and imagination.
Meet Our Team
Our dedicated team of educators brings expertise, empathy, and creativity to every classroom. Many hold advanced degrees in Early Childhood Education and have been part of the Honeydew Drop family for years.
Ms. Teresa
Teresa joined Honeydew Drop in 2021 and loves helping children grow with confidence and curiosity. She finds joy in guiding each child through their milestones and seeing their independence shine. Teresa lives in Staten Island with her husband and son.
Ms. Mayra
Mayra has been part of the Honeydew Drop team
since 2021. She loves watching children grow more independent and expressive throughout the school year. Mayra lives in Bensonhurst with her husband
and two daughters.
Ms. Isa
Isa joined Honeydew Drop in 2024 and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Liberal Studies with a focus
on Creative Writing. She loves encouraging children to express their creativity and curiosity through storytelling and play. Isa lives in Bushwick with her partner.
Ms. Charline
Charline became part of Honeydew Drop in 2023. She finds great joy in nurturing each child’s sense of wonder and discovery about the world around them. Charline lives in the city with her son.
Ms. Dana
Dana joined Honeydew Drop in 2022 and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education with a concentration in Psychology. She loves watching her students’ personalities blossom and guiding them through new learning experiences. Dana lives in Midwood with her family and two cats.
Ms. Julianna
Julianna has been part of Honeydew Drop since 2021 and holds both a Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education and Special Education. She is passionate about helping children grow from their very first day in the classroom and beyond. Julianna lives in Manhattan with her sister.
Ms. Bria
Bria joined Honeydew Drop in 2023 and holds a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential. She enjoys supporting children as they build confidence, meet developmental milestones, and find joy in learning. Bria lives in Fort Greene with her fiancé and two sons.
A few words from families who call
Honeydew Drop their second home