Play. Learn. Shine.

Part day programs for children ages 2-5 years old

Explore programs
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Age-level classrooms

Our classrooms provide young learners with an atmosphere where they grow intellectually and socially while having fun each day—both indoors and outdoors. In addition to age-appropriate classroom materials that encourage exploration and peer interaction, children spend time outside every day engaging in active play, nature exploration, and social learning. Our indoor and outdoor environments work together to support curiosity, creativity, and healthy development.

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Hands-on exploration

Our days are filled with activities that encourage our preschoolers to engage all of their senses, explore their environment, and learn to convey their thoughts and emotions. Guided by our teachers, children learn to connect things they know with new knowledge, skills and attitudes that lead to growth and development.

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Play-based learning

Our play-based approach involves both child-initiated and teacher-supported learning which motivates, stimulates, and supports children in attaining new skills and concepts. Through play, children learn how to negotiate with peers, problem solve, and improvise.

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Experienced teachers

Our experienced staff knows how to nurture each unique child. All of our teachers are certified by state standards and trained in early childhood growth and development.

More than half of our team have children who attended Northminster, and several have been with us for over ten years.

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Your neighborhood nursery school

While we are located inside Northminster Presbyterian Church, we are a non sectarian school and welcome children of all faiths and races. We believe that we are a supplement to the home. Principles of love and understanding inherent in most faiths are practiced in our classrooms.  

One of Northminster Nursery School's guiding principles is building community. We want to promote lifelong curiosity and a sense of belonging. Friendships made at Northminster, for both students and families, are often lifelong! 

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What our parents are saying:

  • “The classrooms are big and bright with a huge variety of activities within, and the outdoor area is attached to the school which is a huge plus to me. The teachers are wonderful – kind, fun, patient, and always with lots of fun activities planned. I highly recommend this school."

    Jen S.

  • "All three of our children attended this wonderful preschool in Evanston. We had the pleasure of having all of the caring teachers over the past 6 years. It is a neighborhood preschool with a number of family events throughout the year to bring school families together."

    Janel S.

  • "There are a few family events during the school year allowing parents to get to know each other and it gives the school a nice warm feeling – as if it is an extended family. You will love it there and you will feel welcomed!"

    Petia T.

  • "My daughter is in her second year at Northminster. When I ask her what she did at school that day, her answer is always “everything!” She truly loves going to school. She is learning so much and has made some great friends. There is a real sense of community at the school and lots of opportunities for parents to volunteer (if they wish)."

    Sharon D.

  • “The Extended Day program offers a rare opportunity for children in Evanston that are ready for a longer day to benefit from creativity, tutelage, and care from the NNS teachers. We cannot say enough good things about it!!"

    Ann & Dave D.

  • "The afternoons are filled with a variety of enrichment activities and have really fostered a love of exploration, learning and creativity in him!"

    Jenny S.