Founded in 1959, Garden Nursery School is a EEC state-licensed, part-time parent/teacher cooperative preschool for children ages 2.9 – 5 years located in the heart of Harvard Square. Social and emotional development is the core of our teaching and practice. Through an emergent curriculum that emphasizes learning through play, our students begin to understand more about themselves and how to work with others in a group setting. The important skills of playing, interacting, problem solving, and empathy provide them with a strong foundation for their next steps into school.
Garden Nursery School is a safe, vibrant, and nurturing first school experience. As a community, we strive to honor differences and provide a model of cooperation and respect for all children and families.
Garden Nursery School is open to children ages 2.9 to 5 years old. Our school is welcoming to families of any race, religion, cultural heritage, political belief, national origin, ability, sexual orientation and family configuration.
Garden Nursery School is a parent and teacher run cooperative school founded on the belief that active parental involvement helps establish community and that this, in turn, naturally eases the transition for children as they make their way in their new school environment. We believe that each child is unique, full of potential and continually evolving. Our school aims to provide a safe, stimulating and nurturing early school experience. We respect the different perspectives, experiences and dignity of each child and family.
Our Philosophy
Our outstanding teachers tailor activities to the interests and needs of individual students. Our materials and curriculum reflect our appreciation for human diversity; they honor the multiplicity of family structures and the economic, racial, and religious differences in our community.
Meet our staff
The Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care licenses our preschool. The state has an extensive array of regulations and requirements that ensure safety and learning for all children.
A strong emphasis is placed on safe classrooms and positive adult-child interactions. Sites visits and relicensing occurs every two years. GNS licensing compliance history can be obtained directly from DEEC.