Welcome to the preschool program offered by Auburndale Community Nursery School (ACNS), located at 230 Central Street in the Auburndale neighborhood of Newton, Massachusetts. If you are searching for a high-quality preschool in Newton, MA, that combines play-based learning with a strong sense of community and individualized support, you’ve come to the right place.
Why Choose Our Preschool in Newton, MA
At ACNS, we believe that the preschool years are a critical time for children’s growth — not only academically, but socially, emotionally and physically. Our philosophy is rooted in the understanding that children learn best when they feel safe, respected and inspired. Accordingly:
Our preschool program serves children ages 2.9 months through 4 years, offering a continuum that leads smoothly into our Pre-K program which is ages 4-5.
We emphasize play-based, hands-on exploration, where children engage in open-ended play, group activities and outdoor time to develop creativity, problem-solving and cooperation skills.
Our staff are experienced early childhood educators: each classroom is staffed by two Massachusetts EEC-certified teachers, enabling a low student-to-teacher ratio and one-on-one attention
Located conveniently in Newton’s Auburndale neighborhood, we welcome families from Newton, Waltham, Watertown and surrounding towns — providing an accessible preschool option in a neighborhood setting.
We support not just academic readiness for kindergarten, but whole-child development: social-emotional skills, independence, confidence and a love of learning.
ACNS does not discriminate in providing service to children and their families, or its employment practices, on the basis of race, religion, cultural heritage, sexual orientation, political beliefs, sex, age or marital status, or disability.
Our Preschool Program: What You’ll Find
Here’s a closer look at how our preschool program is designed to support your child:
Age-Appropriate Learning
Children join our preschool program at ages 2.9 through 4 at which point they graduate to our pre-k class from ages 4-5. Within that range, we provide different enrollment options (2-day, 3-day, and 5-day enrollment for younger preschool; 5-day for Pre-K).
Play-Based Curriculum
Learning at ACNS is not confined to desks and worksheets — instead, our early childhood educators guide children through experiential, play-based activities:
- Open-ended play allows children to explore materials, build ideas, test out social ideas and develop fine and gross motor skills.
- Group activities build cooperation, communication, conflict-resolution and social awareness.
- Structured routines (morning meetings, circle time, choice time) help children feel secure and develop executive-function skills such as focus, planning and persistence.
- Outdoor play & exploration are integrated into the program — children get fresh air, movement and connection to nature, which supports physical health and imaginative play.
Early literacy and numeracy through play: Rather than drill, children engage in storytelling, manipulatives, sensory projects and language-rich environments that foster curiosity and readiness for kindergarten.
Individualized Support & Community
Every child in the preschool program is treated as a unique learner. Because of our favorable student-to-teacher ratio, we can tailor the learning to your child’s pace, strengths and interests. Families are also integral partners in the learning process: parent involvement through classroom volunteering, community events and strong home-school communication is a hallmark of our program.
Flexible Childcare for Families
We know modern families appreciate flexibility. That’s why we offer before- and after-program care: beginning at 8 a.m., and extending after the traditional 9 a.m.–12 p.m. preschool hours through 5:30 p.m. You are billed only for the hours you use — a practical choice for families in Newton, Waltham and nearby towns.
Preparing for Kindergarten (and Beyond)
Our Pre-K readiness portion of the program ensures that children who complete ACNS’s preschool program enter kindergarten with confidence. This includes work on:
- foundational literacy (storytelling, phonemic awareness, vocabulary)
- early number sense and problem-solving
- independence and self-regulation
- social-emotional competencies like sharing, empathy and cooperation
While we focus on readiness, we maintain a joyful, curiosity-driven environment so that children aren’t just prepared, but excited about learning.
Located in Newton’s Auburndale Neighborhood
Based in the charming Auburndale neighborhood of Newton, Massachusetts, ACNS is conveniently located for families from Newton proper, Waltham, Watertown and other surrounding towns. Our address is 230 Central Street, Newton, MA 02466.
Choosing a preschool close to home helps ease transitions for children and families—and our neighborhood setting provides both accessibility and a warm community feel.
Enrollment & Next Steps
We encourage families interested in our preschool program in Newton, MA to request a tour, meet our teachers and check out our classrooms firsthand. Spots fill early, especially for 5-day enrollment options. Enrollment details include:
- Application deadlines (varies by program year)
- Program options (2-day, 3-day, 5-day for younger preschool; 5-day for Pre-K)
- Tuition and payment plans (please see our Tuition Schedule page for full details)
Flexible childcare before and after standard preschool hours
For more information or to schedule a visit, please navigate to our Contact page. You may also visit our Tuition & Payment Plans page for current rates and options.
The ACNS Difference: A Closer Look
Experienced & Caring Educators
Each classroom is staffed by two Massachusetts EEC-certified teachers who bring years of experience in early childhood education. Their dedication means your child receives both high-quality instruction and the caring support that nurtures curiosity and confidence.
Community-Oriented Environment
At ACNS, families and educators partner together. Whether it’s volunteering, classroom events or community celebrations, the school cultivates a true sense of belonging among children, families and staff. This sense of community contributes to children’s well-being and builds stronger relationships across the school year.
Inclusive & Diverse Culture
We honor diversity, with children and families from a wide array of backgrounds. We celebrate customs and traditions throughout the year, fostering cultural awareness, respect and empathy in every child.
Flexible Enrollment Options & Extended Care
Whether your child attends 2 days, 3 days or 5 days, and whether you need childcare before or after the core hours, we offer flexible choices that work for busy families in Newton and nearby suburbs. Moreover, the “only pay for hours you use” model for extended care is a parent-favorite.
Proven Kindergarten Readiness
Graduates from our preschool program enter kindergarten not just ready, but enthusiastic and self-assured. Many parents remark on the growth they see—socially, emotionally, academically—during their child’s time at ACNS.
Frequently asked questions
We welcome children ages 2.9-4 into our preschool program in Newton, MA. Our pre-k program is ages 4-5.
Yes — our program is built around play-based learning, enriched with structured activities that support social, emotional, cognitive and physical development.
For younger preschool classes, we offer 2-day, 3-day or 5-day enrollment options. For our Pre-K class (age 5), we offer 5-day enrollment.
Yes — flexible childcare is available from 8:00 a.m. (before preschool) and from 12:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. (after preschool). You’re billed only for the hours you use.
The core preschool program runs from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., Monday through Friday (depending on your chosen days).
Families are asked to provide snacks and lunches. We maintain allergy-aware classrooms to keep all children safe and included.
Our Pre-K readiness program emphasizes early literacy, numeracy, independence, problem-solving, and social-emotional skills — helping children transition smoothly to kindergarten and beyond.
We follow a traditional school-year calendar, with an optional summer camp program available for additional enrichment and outdoor play during the month of June.
Take the Next Step
If you’re looking for an outstanding preschool in Newton, MA — located in the friendly Auburndale neighborhood, with a play-based philosophy, experienced teachers and flexible enrollment — we’d love to welcome your family to Auburndale Community Nursery School. Schedule a tour today to explore our classrooms, meet our wonderful team and see how your child can thrive in our warm, inclusive community.
Visit Auburndale Community Nursery School
Choosing a preschool is an important decision. At ACNS, we combine decades of early childhood experience, a play-based curriculum, and a community spirit that sets us apart from other Newton preschools.
We invite you to tour our classrooms, meet our teachers, and see why families return year after year.
📍 230 Central Street Newton, MA 02466