BCNS Preschool

Play-Based Preschool & Pre-K in Belmont, MA

BCNS Preschool is a nonprofit, Reggio-inspired preschool at 130 Common Street in Belmont, Massachusetts, serving children ages 2.9 to 5. We have been here since 1971, and children come to us from Belmont, Watertown, Arlington, Waltham, Cambridge and Lexington. Every child’s day is built around a morning class. Families who need more can add care from 8:15 AM until 5:00 PM.

Winter sensory play with ice outdoors

What Reggio Emilia Looks Like on a Tuesday Morning

Our curriculum is not decided in August. Teachers watch what children are actually preoccupied with and build weeks of work from it: a question that keeps coming up at the snack table can turn into a month of drawing, building, counting and writing about it.

The room does work too: natural light, real materials, and things at child height so a four-year-old can start something without asking permission. Children’s words and drawings go up on the walls, so learning is visible to them and to you.

A Preschool Where Curiosity & Community Grow Together

Preschool and Pre-K Classes for Ages 2.9 to 5

Our Classes

From half-day preschool & full-day pre-K to extended-day options, our schedules flex to fit your family.

Summer Programs

Our seasonal programs keep children exploring, creating, and connecting all summer long.

Our Days

Take a sneak peek into a typical day at BCNS Preschool, where play and exploration shape joyful learning.

  • Child-Led, Play-Based Learning

    Child-Led, Play-Based Learning

  • Family Partnership

    Family Partnership

  • Nature & Neighborhood

    Nature & Neighborhood

  • Warm, Experienced Teachers

    Warm, Experienced Teachers

Halloween costume parade past the playground

A Strong, Supportive Parent Community

BCNS brings families and teachers together through helping days, community events, and shared responsibilities. Parents form lasting friendships while playing an active role in their child’s school experience.

 

Serving Belmont, Watertown, Arlington, Waltham & Cambridge

Families from all over Greater Boston choose BCNS for its small class sizes, nurturing staff, and community-centered philosophy. We are conveniently located near major commuter routes and walkable neighborhoods in Belmont.

Hear From BCNS Families

Parents describe BCNS as warm, welcoming, and transformative. Their stories highlight the deep sense of connection, joy, and growth that define our school community.

teacher playing a card game with kids on the rug

Visit BCNS Preschool

See our classrooms in action, meet our teachers, and experience our play-based environment firsthand. We offer small-group and individual tours during the school year.

Enrollment for 2027-2028 opens soon!

Secure your child’s spot in our warm, play-based, Reggio-inspired preschool community in Belmont, MA.

Our Story

Founded more than 50 years ago as Belmont Cooperative Nursery School, BCNS Preschool carries forward a long tradition of child-centered, community-driven early education. Our history shapes who we are today.

BCNS Preschool

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