Play-based learning unfolds as teachers integrate curriculum concepts into natural, free-play interactions, both indoors and outdoors. Every day is filled with rich exposure to the arts. At any given time, our students may be found pretending to be astronauts, writing books, peeking under the hood of a Steinway, charting the growth of tadpoles, or singing and dancing to music from around the world. These diverse explorations give children unique insights into the world around them and feed their joy of lifelong learning.

Student-teacher ratios of 6:1 in the Preschool and 4:1 in the Toddler Program allow for supportive interactions and guidance from teachers. Every day, the classrooms are prepared with a variety of activities in all of our interest areas, such as block-building, dramatic play, writing center, science table, and art corner. As the children explore and develop their own interests, our dedicated teachers introduce concepts related to literacy, science, and mathematics. Through interactions with their mixed-age peers, and with the support of teachers, children grow socially and emotionally in an atmosphere that fosters a passion for learning.

An important piece of our curriculum is turning children's literature and poetry into movement, music, and art experiences. Creative dance classes for preschoolers with live accompaniment in our professional dance space and daily music time for all children are included in the curriculum.

We have a community culture, and parents are a particularly important part of the large family we create every year. Parents are welcome to participate in classroom activities and family events during the year.

Uniquely situated within the main facility of Neighborhood Music School, Preschool and Toddler children are exposed to all the resources of NMS and its community, including dance and music performances, as well as community events.