CNS offers innovative programs for children 2-5 years old. Our pioneering curriculum celebrates the great potential of young children, with the goal of nurturing self-motivated, life-long learners.
Our curriculum is built around a series of explorations that grow out of the children's own interests – combining the power of the children's boundless curiosity with an expertly guided investigative approach that immerses the children in the process and joys of real discovery. Learn more about our approach here.
| Age* | Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday |
| Age 2 | Morning Sunshine (7:45-8:30) Core Program/Mon-Tue group (8:30-11:30) Lunch Bunch (11:30-1:00) Afternoon Shade (1:00-3:00) |
Greenhouse (8:30-11:00) | Morning Sunshine (7:45-8:30) Core Program/Thu-Fri group (8:30-11:30) Lunch Bunch (11:30-1:00) Afternoon Shade (1:00-3:00) |
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| Age 3 | Morning Sunshine (7:45-8:30) Core Program (8:30-11:30) Lunch Bunch (11:30-1:00) Afternoon Shade (1:00-3:00) |
Friday Explorers (8:30-1:00) | |||
| Age 4-5 | Morning Sunshine (7:45-8:30) Core Program (8:30-11:30) Lunch Bunch (11:30-1:00) Afternoon Shade (1:00-3:00) |
Friday Explorers (8:30-1:00) | |||
| * Placement is based on a child's age as of September 1 | |||||
Core Program
Each classroom is a "learning lab" offering a balance of experiences including sensory, gross and fine motor, early literacy and math skills, and dramatic play, music and visual art. Classrooms have two master teachers and a parent helper. Each member of the teaching staff has outstanding experience, advanced training or degrees, and a commitment to ongoing professional development.
Toddlers (2-year-olds)
Our Core Program is available 2 days a week for toddlers – either Monday-Tuesday or Thursday-Friday. Toddlers are in groups of 9 children.
Preschoolers (3-, 4- and 5-year-olds)
Our Core Program is available 3 days a week (Monday-Wednesday) for 3-year-olds, and 4 days a week (Monday-Thursday) for older preschoolers. Preschoolers are in mixed age groups of 18 children.
Optional programs
Optional programs can be chosen a la carte by families enrolled in the Core Program. They offer an opportunity for children to socialize with a broader community of peers, and to explore new areas of inquiry – all in a safe and familiar setting.
Morning Sunshine (All ages | Mon-Fri | 7:45-8:30)
Early arrivers are welcomed with morning mind and body exercise including reading, language play, storytelling, music, stretching, and yoga.
Lunch Bunch (All ages | Mon-Thu | 11:30-1:00)
In the company of friends, children stay for a nutritious lunch, set the table, listen to classical music, practice table manners, and discuss good nutrition. Students bring their own (nut-free) lunch.
Afternoon Shade (All ages | Mon-Thu | 1:00-3:00)
In keeping with the latest research on child development and education, our afternoon program is play-based, with lots of time for independent choices and rest. Children begin the afternoon with time to nap, accompanied by a book read aloud and quiet music. After nap, there's time for physical play, and to engage with classroom toys and activities such as kitchen chemistry and dramatic play.
Greenhouse (2-year-olds| Wed | 8:30-11:00)
Greenhouse offers an optional extra day for toddlers. The approach is similar to our Core Program, but with a more specific focus on exploring the "out-of-doors" – the natural world, seasons, and weather – with many unique themes and activities. Exploration will be through a wide range of experiences, including direct experimentation, literature, music, art, cooking, and movement.
Friday Explorers (3-, 4- and 5-year olds | Fri | 8:30-1:00)
Based on our belief that the "world is our classroom," the school's neighborhood – including historical sites, bodies of water, urban wildlife, and human culture in all its diversity – serves as inspiration for out-of-school investigations. Most days begin with research groups posing questions, include a short field trip, and then culminate with reflection in "Explorer Journals." Students bring their own (nut-free) lunch.
Other offerings
CNS also offers an ever-evolving schedule of performances, puppet shows, film screenings and lectures for the school community on weekday afternoons and weekends. For up-to-date information on what's available, contact us or view our calendar.