Parents' Nursery School in Cambridge

PNS is a very special place, and we recommend it highly. We toured many schools in the area and fell in love with this one. For one, the teachers and director are stellar: caring, kind, and deeply interested in the emotional and intellectual development of the children. The space is also quite special because (unlike many preschools) it was actually designed as a school: high ceilings, big windows that let in light, and a glass garage door that opens for indoor-outdoor play in spring, summer and fall. The emphasis of this school is on creative and collaborative play, which is integrated with seasonal curricula and plenty of reading and stories. Each day children have choices of multiple (and changing) activities that involve reading, arts & crafts, and building. The parent co-op component of the school is a small commitment and a major plus, as parents and children get to know one another in ways that are rare at other preschools. The actual amount of coop work is pretty minimal but it is enough to foster a deep sense of community. This place is a gem!

We love PNS! Our child started this year and absolutely loves the teachers and community at this school. It's a play-based curriculum and the super experienced, caring teachers are absolutely amazing at helping the children learn through play. In addition to the core curriculum of the school they also have wonderful "specialists" that come in - a music teacher, yoga teacher, and regular visits from a local librarian. Another really special thing about this school is the space -- the building was designed by an architect parent and is "indoor/outdoor" - the back wall of the school is a garage door that opens up on warm days so the children can freely play indoors and outdoors. We really enjoy the coop aspect of the school - it's great being able to be in the classroom from time to time and to contribute to the school community, and we've really enjoyed getting to know the other parents.

I cannot recommend Parents' Nursery School more highly. The school is a treasure! The lead teacher, Kristen, has been a constant for many years and is an incredibly skilled, nurturing, and playful caregiver/teacher. Kristen, along with Gretchen the other teacher and Lynne, the school director, have created the most magical environment for young children to grow, learn, and play in. Our oldest child started as soon as he was old enough at 2.9 and our youngest will be starting next month. But our kids are not the only ones who have benefitted from this rare gem of a school ... we have found a community of incredible parents who have become both friends and a much needed support network during this most challenging phase of parenting. We feel so lucky to have found the PNS community!

I can't say enough great things about Parents' Nursery School! We have sent two of our children here over the past two years. The teachers are very experienced, super creative with curriculum, amazing at engaging children in the activities, and are able to meet each child's individual needs as learners. They have been super helpful to me as a parent whenever I have questions about my child's development or learning style. The community within the school is like no other! Each year they have special events for the kids and parents to come together and get to know one another. There is a fall festival in the fall, harvest feast around Thanksgiving, nighttime fundraising event at the end of winter and a butterfly parade towards the end of the school year. Parent helping happens about once per month and it has been time with my children that I have cherished. I recommend this school for anyone looking for a play-based, cooperative pre-school program!

Two of my kids have attended this school and our experience as a family here has been excellent. The teachers thoughtfully deliver a well-designed curriculum, while building authentic relationships with each student. They allow each kid to drive their own learning which has resulted in a high level of engagement and empowerment for each of my children in their time at PNS. We could not be more satisfied with PNS.