The Absolute Best Preschools in Cambridge [Updated 2025]

Throughout my years of experience, I have had the opportunity to review a total of 15 preschools in Cambridge. Now, I am excited to share with you the ultimate guide that showcases the crème de la crème of preschool education in this vibrant city.

With its rich academic heritage and renowned institutions, Cambridge is a hub for exemplary preschools that prioritize a child's holistic development. In this comprehensive article, I will carefully assess each preschool based on its curriculum, teaching methodologies, facilities, and overall environment.

Join me as we embark on this exciting journey to discover the best preschools Cambridge has to offer!

Garden Nursery School

Highlights
Warm and loving environment
Small group size
Cozy space with plenty of natural light
Safe, dedicated, fenced outdoor space
Variety of attendance options

Let me start by saying that stepping into Garden Nursery School feels like walking into a warm and loving embrace. The teachers take the time to make each child feel welcomed and valued, creating a nurturing atmosphere that helps little ones flourish.

One of the standout features of this preschool is its small group size. By keeping classes intimate, children receive personalized attention, fostering their individual growth. It's a place where their unique personalities and curiosities are celebrated, helping them develop a love for learning.

The physical space at Garden Nursery School is simply delightful. The cozy classrooms are flooded with abundant natural light, creating an inviting ambiance. It's a space that encourages exploration and imagination, providing a comfortable environment for children to thrive.

Safety is a top priority at this preschool. With a dedicated, fenced outdoor space, little ones can enjoy fresh air and outdoor play while parents can have peace of mind. The outdoor area is designed to nurture physical development and spur creativity, with age-appropriate equipment and materials.

Garden Nursery School understands that every family's needs are unique. To accommodate different schedules, they offer a variety of attendance options, including full and part-time enrollment. This flexibility is highly appreciated by working parents in the Cambridge community.

In conclusion, Garden Nursery School is a gem in Cambridge's preschool landscape. With its warm and loving environment, small group sizes, cozy and bright spaces, dedicated outdoor area, and flexible attendance options, it offers everything a parent could wish for their toddler's early years.

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Newtowne School

Highlights
Thriving atmosphere
Highly knowledgeable staff
Excellent communication with parents
Thoughtful and creative activities
Unique younger classroom

Let me start off by saying that Newtowne School is an absolute gem in the world of preschools. From the moment I stepped foot into their premises, I was greeted with a thriving atmosphere filled with laughter, curiosity, and energetic little learners.

What sets Newtowne School apart is their highly knowledgeable staff. Each teacher demonstrates a true passion for early childhood education and is well-versed in the best practices for nurturing young minds. Their warm and caring demeanor instantly puts both children and parents at ease.

Speaking of parents, the school's excellent communication is something to be commended. Newtowne School believes in building strong partnerships with families, ensuring that everyone is on the same page when it comes to their child's development. Regular updates, parent-teacher meetings, and open dialogue play a vital role in making sure every child's individual needs are met.

Now, let's talk about the thoughtful and creative activities that take place at Newtowne School. From engaging art projects to interactive science experiments, the curriculum at this preschool is designed to inspire and encourage young learners to think outside the box. Their play-based approach allows children to explore their interests, develop problem-solving skills, and create lasting memories.

One aspect that truly stood out to me at Newtowne School is the unique younger classroom. Here, the youngest learners are provided with a nurturing and stimulating environment specially tailored to meet their needs. The dedicated teachers in this classroom ensure that every child feels secure, loved, and excited about their educational journey.

In conclusion, Newtowne School is undoubtedly one of the best preschools in Cambridge. With its thriving atmosphere, highly knowledgeable staff, excellent communication with parents, thoughtful and creative activities, and unique younger classroom, this preschool truly goes above and beyond in providing a nurturing and enriching environment for young learners.

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Jun Zi Lan Montessori School

Highlights
Loving teachers
Strong development
Bilingual program
Whole child approach
Tremendous growth

Walking into Jun Zi Lan Montessori School, I was immediately greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere. The first thing that caught my attention was the loving teachers who were engaged with the children, nurturing their every need. It was clear that the staff truly cared about each child's well-being and development.

Speaking of development, Jun Zi Lan Montessori School excels in this area. Their curriculum focuses on fostering strong development in all aspects of a child's growth, including cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development. The teachers create a stimulating environment where children can explore, discover, and learn at their own pace.

One standout feature of Jun Zi Lan Montessori School is their bilingual program. Children have the opportunity to learn both English and Mandarin, giving them a unique advantage in today's global society. It was impressive to see how seamlessly the language integration was woven into daily activities and lessons.

What I loved most about Jun Zi Lan Montessori School is their commitment to a whole child approach. They understand that a child's education is more than just academics - it's about nurturing their character, creativity, and curiosity. Through art, music, nature exploration, and hands-on experiences, children at Jun Zi Lan Montessori School are encouraged to develop a love for learning and explore their individual interests.

As I observed the children in action, I was blown away by the tremendous growth they demonstrated. It was evident that Jun Zi Lan Montessori School provides a nurturing and stimulating environment where children flourish. I highly recommend Jun Zi Lan Montessori School as one of the top preschools in Cambridge for their loving teachers, strong development focus, bilingual program, whole child approach, and the tremendous growth of their students.

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Diki Shining Star Childcare Center

Highlights
Loving and sensitive teachers
Community of friendship
Tons of time outside
Yoga/stretching every morning
Learning songs and games at circle time

Diki Shining Star Childcare Center in Cambridge shines brightly among the competition with its exceptional qualities. One of the first things that stood out to me during my visit was the dedication and love displayed by the teachers. They are not only highly trained and knowledgeable, but also incredibly sensitive and nurturing towards the little ones.

The children at Diki Shining Star are not just students; they form a close-knit community of friendship where kindness and respect are valued. I witnessed the children working together on various projects and supporting one another. It was heartwarming to see them building relationships and learning important social skills.

Another highlight of Diki Shining Star is their emphasis on outdoor play. The preschool values the importance of fresh air and exercise, ensuring that the children receive tons of time outside. Whether it's running around in the playground or exploring nature, the kids are encouraged to explore and appreciate the world around them.

One of the unique aspects of this preschool is the incorporation of yoga and stretching into their daily routine. Every morning, the children engage in gentle exercises that help develop their balance, coordination, and mindfulness. It was delightful to witness their enthusiasm as they stretched and moved their bodies.

Moreover, the preschool prioritizes circle time activities where children learn through songs and games. This interactive approach to learning captivates their attention and fosters their cognitive and social development.

In conclusion, Diki Shining Star Childcare Center is a preschool that truly stands out in Cambridge. Its loving and sensitive teachers, community of friendship, ample outdoor play, morning yoga, and engaging circle time activities all contribute to an exceptional and empowering learning environment for children.

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Wildflower Montessori School

Highlights
Amazing fit for our daughter
Fantastic teaching team
Independence and community-orientation
Gentle and warm first school experience
Magical and peaceful classroom environment

Let me start by saying that this preschool was an amazing fit for our little one. From the moment we stepped into the school, we could feel the love and care that was put into creating a gentle and warm first school experience.

One of the highlights of Wildflower Montessori School is its fantastic teaching team. The teachers truly understand the needs of young children and provide a nurturing and stimulating environment for them to grow and learn. They are patient, knowledgeable, and genuinely passionate about early childhood education.

What also impressed me about this preschool is its emphasis on independence and community-orientation. The Montessori approach allows children to develop at their own pace and encourages them to explore and learn through hands-on activities. Our daughter thrived in this environment and we noticed a significant growth in her confidence and love for learning.

The classroom environment at Wildflower Montessori School is nothing short of magical and peaceful. The space is thoughtfully designed with natural elements, creating a calm and inviting atmosphere. The materials and resources provided engage children's curiosity and foster their creativity.

To sum it up, Wildflower Montessori School is a preschool that truly understands how to create an enriching and joyful learning experience for young children. If you're looking for a place where your child can flourish academically, socially, and emotionally, then this is the place to be.

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Evergreen Day School

Highlights
Enrichment programs (yoga, spanish, music, etc.)
Outdoor time
Beautiful building with stunning library
Loving teachers and staff
Excellent communication with teachers

Evergreen Day School in Cambridge stands out as a top contender among the best preschools in the area. As soon as I entered the beautiful building, I was immediately impressed by the warm and inviting atmosphere. The stunning library caught my eye, as it showcased a wide variety of books that ignite a love for reading in the little ones.

One thing that truly impressed me about Evergreen Day School was their commitment to providing enrichment programs. From yoga and Spanish to music and art, the school goes above and beyond in offering diverse activities that stimulate young minds. These programs, along with the well-rounded curriculum, ensure that children are engaged and excited about learning.

Outdoor time is an essential part of a child's development, and at Evergreen Day School, they understand this perfectly. The school boasts spacious outdoor play areas, allowing children to connect with nature while engaging in fun and educational activities. The staff ensures that the little ones have ample time to explore and play, developing their gross motor skills in the process.

The teachers and staff at Evergreen Day School are not only highly qualified, but they are also kind, nurturing, and loving. They create a safe and supportive environment for every child, encouraging them to explore their interests and build self-confidence. The communication between the teachers and parents is also outstanding, ensuring that everyone is on the same page when it comes to the child's progress and well-being.

Overall, Evergreen Day School in Cambridge truly stands out as a top-notch preschool. With its enriching programs, space for outdoor play, stunning library, and dedicated teachers and staff, parents can trust that their little ones will receive a well-rounded and loving education.

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Cambridge Nursery School

Highlights
Fantastic program
Engaging community
Warm and nurturing teachers
Great place to start school experience

Let me start by saying that Cambridge Nursery School offers a fantastic program for young children. The curriculum is carefully designed to engage children in various educational activities, fostering their cognitive, social, and emotional development. From arts and crafts to music and storytime, the school provides a well-rounded experience for its students.

One of the standout aspects of this preschool is its engaging community. The parents and teachers work together to create a warm and supportive environment for the children to thrive in. Whether it's attending parent-teacher meetings or participating in school events, everyone is actively involved and committed to ensuring the best preschool experience for the little ones.

The teachers at Cambridge Nursery School deserve a special mention. They are not only highly qualified but also possess a remarkable ability to create a warm and nurturing atmosphere for the children. They genuinely care about each child's well-being, making them feel safe and loved during their time at school.

Cambridge Nursery School is undeniably a great place to start the school experience. The combination of the fantastic program, engaged community, and dedicated teachers make it an outstanding choice for families searching for a preschool in Cambridge. Their priority lies in providing a stimulating and loving environment where children can grow, learn, and flourish.

In conclusion, Cambridge Nursery School has certainly left a positive impression on me. With its exceptional program, welcoming community, and passionate teachers, it undoubtedly deserves to be among the best preschools in Cambridge.

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Two Little Owls Schoolhouse

Highlights
Safe and healthy meals
Routine establishment
Advancement in skills

Two Little Owls Schoolhouse in Cambridge is truly a gem among preschools. From the moment I stepped inside, I immediately felt a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The staff greeted me with friendly smiles and made me feel right at home.

One of the standout highlights of Two Little Owls Schoolhouse is their commitment to providing safe and healthy meals for the little ones. As a parent, I understand the importance of nutritious food, and it's reassuring to know that the school takes this seriously. They prioritize using fresh ingredients and offer a variety of options to cater to different dietary needs.

The establishment of routines is another aspect that impressed me during my visit. The teachers at Two Little Owls Schoolhouse understand that young children thrive in structured environments. They have created a well-balanced daily schedule that incorporates learning, playtime, and rest. This helps the children feel secure and provides them with a sense of routine and stability.

What sets Two Little Owls Schoolhouse apart is their dedication to the advancement of children's skills. From art to language development, the teachers foster a love for learning in a fun and engaging way. They design age-appropriate activities that encourage the children to explore and express themselves, ultimately helping them develop their cognitive, social, and emotional skills.

In conclusion, Two Little Owls Schoolhouse offers a nurturing and stimulating environment for preschoolers in Cambridge. With their emphasis on safe and healthy meals, routine establishment, and advancement in skills, they truly stand out among the best preschools in the area.

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Cambridge Montessori School

Highlights
Wonderful school
Passionate teachers
Inspiring curiosity
Great community

Let me start by saying that Cambridge Montessori School is truly a wonderful place for young learners. From the moment I stepped inside, I could feel the warm and nurturing environment that this preschool provides.

One of the standout aspects of this school is its passionate teachers. They are dedicated professionals who genuinely care about the development and well-being of each child. Their enthusiasm and love for teaching is infectious, creating a positive atmosphere where children thrive.

At Cambridge Montessori School, they are not just focused on academics, but also on inspiring curiosity in young minds. The curriculum is designed to encourage children to explore, question, and discover the world around them. Through hands-on activities and engaging lessons, students are encouraged to think independently and develop a love for learning.

But it's not just the academics that make this preschool special. The sense of community at Cambridge Montessori School is truly exceptional. Parents, teachers, and staff work together to create a supportive and inclusive environment. The school frequently organizes events and activities that bring families together, fostering strong relationships and creating lasting memories.

In conclusion, the Cambridge Montessori School is an outstanding choice for parents searching for a preschool that balances academic excellence with a nurturing and loving atmosphere. With a team of passionate teachers, a focus on inspiring curiosity, and a strong sense of community, this preschool offers an exceptional learning experience for young children in Cambridge.

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Cambridge-Ellis School

Highlights
Caring and compassionate staff
Lots of outdoor playtime
Developmentally appropriate curriculum
Excellent communication with parents
Supportive and open community

Let me start by saying that Cambridge-Ellis School truly stands out as an exceptional preschool in the vibrant city of Cambridge.

One of the first things that struck me about Cambridge-Ellis is the caring and compassionate staff. From the moment I walked through the door, I could see that they prioritize creating a warm and nurturing environment for their young students.

Outdoor playtime is an important part of a child's development, and Cambridge-Ellis recognizes this. They provide ample opportunities for children to engage in lots of outdoor playtime, allowing them to explore and discover the wonders of nature firsthand.

The curriculum at Cambridge-Ellis is developmentally appropriate, meaning that it is tailored to meet the needs and abilities of each individual child. The teachers implement a variety of hands-on activities and play-based learning to stimulate the children's growth in all areas.

One aspect that truly impressed me was the excellent communication the school maintains with parents. Regular updates, parent-teacher conferences, and an open-door policy ensure that parents are well-informed and involved in their child's education journey.

Lastly, the supportive and open community at Cambridge-Ellis truly sets it apart. The school fosters an inclusive environment where every child and family feels welcomed and valued.

In conclusion, Cambridge-Ellis School is a top-notch preschool in Cambridge. With its caring staff, emphasis on outdoor playtime, developmentally appropriate curriculum, excellent communication with parents, and supportive community, it provides a truly exceptional preschool experience for young learners.

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Kiddie Academy of Cambridge

Highlights
Backup care program
Nice and caring staff
Clean and healthy

First and foremost, one of the most impressive aspects of Kiddie Academy of Cambridge is their backup care program. As a working parent, I understand the importance of having a reliable and trustworthy backup plan when unexpected circumstances arise. The academy's backup care program ensures that parents can rest easy knowing that their child is still in excellent hands even when unforeseen situations occur.

Furthermore, the staff at Kiddie Academy of Cambridge are truly nice and caring. From the moment I stepped foot in the facility, I was greeted with warmth and friendliness. The teachers and caregivers exhibited a genuine passion for early childhood education and it was evident in the way they interacted with the children.

The cleanliness and hygiene of the preschool were also remarkable. The academy maintained a clean and healthy environment, which is crucial for the well-being of young children. I was pleased to see that proper sanitization protocols were in place, ensuring that the facility remains a safe and healthy space for every child.

In conclusion, Kiddie Academy of Cambridge is a preschool that stands out for its commitment to providing a reliable backup care program, a staff that genuinely cares, and a clean and healthy environment. If you're looking for a preschool in Cambridge that combines professionalism with a playful atmosphere, Kiddie Academy of Cambridge should definitely be at the top of your list.

Bright Horizons at Mass Ave.

Highlights
Engaging curriculum
Fantastic teachers and staff
Easy tracking through app
Dedicated to activities with kids
Great infant teachers and director

Bright Horizons at Mass Ave. is truly a gem among the preschools in Cambridge. From the moment I stepped inside, I could see why it consistently ranks among the best in the area.

One of the highlights of this preschool is its engaging curriculum. The teachers and staff are truly dedicated to creating a learning environment that is both educational and enjoyable for the children. They have crafted an exceptional program that integrates play-based learning with age-appropriate activities. This approach keeps the children excited and motivated while laying the foundation for their academic journey.

What impressed me the most is the level of dedication the teachers and staff have towards the children. They are not just educators, but mentors who genuinely care for each child's well-being and development. The director, in particular, has created a warm and welcoming atmosphere that makes both the children and parents feel at ease.

One of the unique features of Bright Horizons at Mass Ave. is the easy tracking system they offer through their app. Parents can stay updated on their child's day, from meals and naps to activities and milestones. It's a fantastic way for parents to remain connected and involved in their child's preschool experience.

Another standout aspect of this preschool is their commitment to providing a wide range of activities for the children. From music and art to outdoor play and storytime, every day is filled with enriching experiences. The teachers and staff go above and beyond to create a nurturing and stimulating environment for the children to grow and thrive.

Lastly, the infant program at Bright Horizons at Mass Ave. is exceptional. The infant teachers are caring, attentive, and knowledgeable. They create a safe and loving atmosphere where the little ones can explore, learn, and develop their budding skills.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a preschool that offers an engaging curriculum, fantastic teachers and staff, easy tracking through an app, and a dedication to creating meaningful activities with kids, then Bright Horizons at Mass Ave. is a top choice. Their commitment to the growth and well-being of each child, as well as their exceptional infant program, make them truly stand out among the best preschools in Cambridge.

Haggerty Preschool

Highlights
Warm and welcoming
Excellent staff and teachers
Strong sense of community
Hosts wonderful events
Highly recommended by parents

Walking into Haggerty Preschool, I was immediately struck by the warm and welcoming atmosphere that permeated the entire space. The staff and teachers greeted me with genuine smiles and a kind demeanor, making me feel instantly at ease.

One of the standout features of Haggerty Preschool is the excellent staff and teachers. They are not only knowledgeable and experienced in early childhood education, but also genuinely passionate about their work. Their dedication to the children's growth and development is evident in their approach to teaching and the individual attention they provide to each child.

Another aspect of Haggerty Preschool that impressed me was the strong sense of community. The parents I spoke to during my visit couldn't stop raving about the supportive environment and the bonds they have formed with other families. Haggerty Preschool truly fosters a sense of belonging and inclusion for everyone involved.

Moreover, Haggerty Preschool hosts a variety of wonderful events throughout the year. From holiday celebrations and family picnics to special presentations, there's always something exciting happening at this preschool. These events not only provide opportunities for additional learning experiences but also strengthen the already tight-knit community.

Overall, Haggerty Preschool receives high praise from parents who have entrusted their children to its care. With its warm and welcoming environment, excellent staff, strong sense of community, and engaging events, it's no wonder that Haggerty Preschool is a top recommendation among local parents.

Rock and Roll Daycare East Cambridge

Highlights
Loving staff
Experienced teachers
Responsive and understanding
Fun activities

Rock and Roll Daycare East Cambridge is truly a gem among the many preschool options in Cambridge. From the moment I stepped through the doors, it was evident that this place was filled with warmth and love. The loving staff greeted me with smiles and made me feel instantly welcomed.

The experienced teachers at Rock and Roll Daycare East Cambridge are truly exceptional. They possess a deep understanding of early childhood education and are passionate about guiding and nurturing young minds. Their dedication to creating a stimulating and nurturing environment for the children was evident in every interaction I observed.

One aspect that really stood out to me was how responsive and understanding the staff were to the individual needs of each child. They took the time to listen and address any concerns or questions raised by both parents and children, ensuring a supportive and inclusive atmosphere.

At Rock and Roll Daycare East Cambridge, learning is never a dull moment! The range of fun activities provided aims to engage children in creative and imaginative play. From music and art to outdoor adventures, children have the opportunity to explore and develop their skills in a joyful and interactive way.

In conclusion, if you're on the search for a preschool in Cambridge, Rock and Roll Daycare East Cambridge is definitely a top contender. With their loving staff, experienced teachers, responsive and understanding approach, and a plethora of fun activities, they offer a preschool experience like no other.

Bright Horizons at University Park

Highlights
Amazing teachers
Caring and loving staff
Great curriculum
Happy and engaged children
Minimal COVID cases

From the moment I stepped foot into Bright Horizons at University Park, I was greeted with a warm and inviting atmosphere. The amazing teachers and caring and loving staff made me feel instantly welcomed.

One of the things that stood out to me the most was their great curriculum. They have a well-rounded program that focuses on both academic and social development. The children at Bright Horizons are truly fortunate to have this level of educational enrichment.

I couldn't help but notice the happy and engaged children throughout the preschool. The learning environment was filled with laughter and creativity. It was evident that the teachers went above and beyond to make sure the children were having a blast while learning.

Additionally, I was pleasantly surprised to learn that Bright Horizons has had minimal COVID cases. They have implemented strict safety protocols, and their commitment to the health and well-being of the children is commendable.

Bright Horizons at University Park is an exceptional preschool in Cambridge. Their dedication to providing a nurturing and educational environment is truly remarkable. If you're looking for a preschool that will foster your child's growth and make their early years truly special, then Bright Horizons is the place to be.