Choosing a preschool can feel like one of the hardest early parenting decisions. There are so many different approaches, whether it’s play based, more structured, or something in between. Add to that the fact that enrollment always seems to open earlier than we expect, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s why we put together the NWN Mom Preschool Guide. Here you’ll find local preschools that meet a variety of learning styles and offer different schedules.
Tobin Beaudet Schools offers year-round Preschool, Pre-K, and Junior K programming for children 2.9–5 years old near Needham Center, with three schedule options—early, mid, and full day—running 7:30 a.m.–6 p.m. All children attend five days a week, Monday through Friday, ensuring consistency and a rich experience every day. Our curriculum includes the Fundations literacy program, Music & Movement, Social & Emotional learning, STEM, Math and Soccer. We have been part of the Needham community since 1997. A new 2-2.9 toddler program will be starting July of 2026.
tobinbeaudet.com
IG: tobinbeaudet | FB: Tobin Beaudet Schools
Rooted in the values of repairing the world, treating others respectfully, and creating a warm and welcoming community, Gan Aliyah is an intimate community where everyone knows your child, and you. Our extended hours provide a wealth of play-based experiences for children ages 18 months - 5 years.Enrollment for the next school year begins in December for new families. Extended hours will be offered starting 2026-2027 school year.
ganaliyah.com
IG: ganaliyahpreschool | FB: Gan Aliyah Preschool
Founded in 1955 in Newton, Massachusetts, we are one of the longest-running cooperative nursery schools in the country: not just a school for children, but a school for families. At Bowen, everyone has a chance to learn and grow, make lifelong connections, and become deeply involved in the preschool experience. Enrollment begins October 15th for 2026-2027 school year.
bowencoop.org
IG: bowencooperative | FB: Bowen Cooperative Nursery
At Temple Beth Shalom Children's Center children are thinkers who construct knowledge through interacting with the world around them. Working together as a community of learners they ask questions and explore big concepts. Jewish values are woven into the daily curriculum as the children learn to live by our guiding principles: We take care of ourselves, we take care of each other, and we take care of our world. From joyful holiday celebrations to supporting each other through life transitions, the families of Temple Beth Shalom Children’s Center form a community extending beyond the classroom. At TBSCC learning comes alive. Registration for the 2026-27 school year begins October 15
tbsfamily.org
IG: tbschildreinscenter | FB: Temple Beth Shalom Children's Center
Scalliwags is modeled on care and kindness to others, delivering a developmentally appropriate curriculum through stories, songs, and play to ensure that each child learns, grows, and flourishes in a safe, loving, and inspiring environment. At Scalliwags, we nurture children’s natural curiosity and independence, helping them gain the confidence they need to build positive relationships and explore the world through imaginative and sensory play. Our daily activities include music and movement class, science experiments, culinary, reading program and nature exploration, all designed to support holistic development and joyful learning. Spots are still available for the current school year.
scalliwagschildcare.com
IG: scalliwagschildcare | FB: Scalliwags Childcare
Just like picking the perfect apple, choosing the right school takes care and attention, which is where Temple Beth Avodah's Early Learning Center comes in. They're here to help you navigate the best choice for your child. TBA offers Monday - Friday flex hours, full and part-time options, early drop-off, and extended day for children beginning at age 15+ months. New this year, TBA is offering an 8-week summer program. See what makes the TBA community so special during one of their Drop-In Days
bethavodah.org
IG: tba_elc | FB: Temple Beth Avodah Early Learning Center
2ndchurchnurseryschool.org
FB: Second Church Nursery School
Additional Preschools
Carter Preschool
800 Highland Ave, Needham MA
Needham Montessori
238 Highland Ave, Needham MA
Noah's Ark Preschool
1154 Great Plains Ave, Needham MA
Gan Elohim
10 Bethel Road, Wellesley MA
Together We Grow
3 Pinevale Road, Wellesley MA
Wellesley Hills Center
309 Washington Street, Wellesley MA
Wellesley Montessori
79 Denton Road, Wellesley MA
Echo Falls Preschool
545 Grove Street, Newton MA
Jewish Creative Preschool
349 Dedham Street, Newton MA
Parkside Preschool
474 Centre Street, Newton MA
Second Church Nursery School
60 Highland Street, Newton MA
Teddy Bear Club Preschool
1466 Commonwealth Ave, Newton MA
Temple Shalom Nursery School
175 Temple Street, Newton MA
Upper Falls Nursery School
45 Pettee Street, Newton MA
Godine Early Learning Center at the JCC
333 Nahanton Street, Newton MA
West Suburban YMCA Preschool
Church St & Wells Ave Locations Newton, MA
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