Menlo Atherton Cooperative Nursery School

The Menlo-Atherton Cooperative Nursery School is a play-based preschool where parent participation allows children and families to learn and grow together. Our school is dedicated to providing a nurturing environment that fosters social, cognitive, and emotional growth in young children. We believe that play is the most effective way for children to learn and develop, and our experienced teachers and committed parents work together to create a fun and engaging atmosphere that encourages exploration, creativity, and imagination.

Our Philosophy

We believe that every child is unique and deserves to be treated with respect, kindness, and compassion. Our philosophy is centered around the idea that if a child has the opportunity to develop confidence in themselves, they will be able to think for themselves, make their own decisions, and work out solutions to their own problems. We strive to create a sense of self-worth and self-esteem in our children, and our parents play a vital role in helping us achieve this goal.

Our Services

We offer a range of services designed to support the growth and development of young children. Our play-based learning program is designed to foster social and cognitive skills, emotional maturity, and self-confidence. We also provide parent education classes, which offer parents the opportunity to learn about child development, parenting strategies, and how to support their child's learning. Our school is committed to creating a sense of community, and we encourage parents to get involved in our school through volunteering, attending events, and participating in our board and committees.

Our History

The Menlo-Atherton Cooperative Nursery School was founded in 1951 as the Menlo Play Center by the American Association of University Women, in co-sponsorship with the Sequoia District Adult School. Over the years, our school has grown and evolved, but our commitment to providing a play-based education has remained constant. We have a rich history of parent participation, and our school has been shaped by the contributions of countless parents and teachers who have worked together to create a nurturing and supportive environment for young children.