The Environment as the Third Teacher

Each morning, our classrooms and outdoor spaces are prepared with intention. Materials are arranged to invite exploration, and tools are placed where children can freely choose and use them. These environments are designed to support building, deconstructing, experimenting, and returning to ideas over time.

In the Reggio Emilia philosophy, the environment is considered the ‘third teacher.’ At BCNS, we embrace this belief - creating spaces that invite curiosity, dialogue, and discovery, and that reflect the voices and questions of the children themselves.

Child's hands placing flower petals into small bowls on a wooden table, surrounded by colorful flower petals and blossoms.
A round table covered with a white tablecloth, decorated with colored glass stones arranged in patterns, with four white square canvases each holding a gray clay ball. In the center, there is a glass jar filled with sculpting tools. The background shows wooden chairs, flooring, and a partial view of a counter or shelf.
A wooden table with three small mirrors, two marked with black stands, and several shells and rocks for a shell craft activity. A sign with purple handwritten text asks, "How can you make a portrait with these beautiful materials?"

“When we prepare the environment with care and intention, we are not just setting out materials - we are opening doors to curiosity, conversation, and the limitless possibilities of a child’s thinking.”

- Krissy, BCNS Director

A shelf with various stationery supplies including colorful scissors, pencils, and markers, along with a book titled『Rocks & Minerals』 in the background.
Wooden block stacking game with colorful painted blocks, set up on a wooden floor near a potted plant and in front of a shelf and countertop with baskets and books.
Child creating a colorful abstract painting on a piece of paper laid on asphalt, using various colors of paint and a small box of paint.
Collection of children's abstract paintings on paper, with colorful brushstrokes and notes with quotes and names attached to each artwork, displayed on a bulletin board.
A paint palette filled with various buttons and craft items, with containers of colorful beads, pins, and pins in the background.

Outdoor Spaces

Beyond our sun-filled classrooms, our private outdoor playground and shared public spaces are daily destinations for our students. We believe fresh air is vital for healthy development, and our location in Belmont allows us to safely explore nature in all seasons.

FAQs: BCNS Preschool Environment

  • BCNS classrooms are bright, welcoming, and designed for play-based Reggio Emilia learning. Children explore materials, create projects, and build connections in safe, child-centered spaces.

  • Yes - weather permitting, children enjoy daily outdoor play in our dedicated playground and nearby green spaces. We believe outdoor exploration is essential to learning.

  • BCNS is located at 130 Common Street in Belmont, MA. We are easily accessible to families in Belmont, Watertown, Arlington, Waltham, and Cambridge. While we are located within St. Joseph Parish facilities, BCNS is a fully independent, non-sectarian preschool.

  • Our facility meets all state safety standards and is regularly inspected for fire, building, and health compliance. Teachers also check classrooms and outdoor areas each day.