Menlo-Atherton Cooperative Nursery School

Menlo-Atherton Cooperative Nursery School offers play-based learning, art projects, music, and story times. The program also includes indoor and outdoor play, social skills, and self-directed learning in a multi-faceted learning space.

Programs

• Parent-Child — 12 mos – 2 yrs by Sep 1 · Friday 12:00pm to 2:00pm · $624 per month · Wonderful introduction to nursery school; children play in a developmentally appropriate indoor/outdoor environment while learning social skills, engaging in art projects, music and story times.
• Young Preschool — 2 yrs – 3 yrs by Sep 1 · Tuesday, Thursday 9:00am to 11:30am · $1,081 per month · Nurturing, supportive environment; inviting and multi-faceted learning space to stimulate play and self-directed learning.
• Preschool — 3 yrs – 4 yrs by Sep 1 · Monday, Wednesday, Friday 9:00am to 11:30am · $1,538 per month · Promotes deeper learning by nurturing collaborative relationships and emphasizing social, emotional, physical, and intellectual development.
• Pre-Kindergarten — 4 yrs – 5 yrs by Sep 1 · Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 12:30pm to 3:00pm · $1,973 per month · Important year for both the child and parent; children continue to work on social, emotional, physical, and intellectual skills.

At a glance

• Ages: 1–5 years old
• Price range: $624–$1,973 per month

About the provider

Founded in 1951 as the Menlo Play Center, the school moved to its current location in Nealon Park in May 1961. After an arson fire on February 16, 1992, a new building was dedicated in October 1994. Parents play an active role by working in the classroom, attending parent education classes, and serving on the board and committees. The school uses play-based learning to help children develop social and cognitive skills, mature emotionally, and build self-confidence. Local architect and former co-op parent Sam Sinnott designed an award-winning facility for the school, with input from teachers and parents.

The school does not discriminate against anyone on the basis of race, sex, sexual orientation, nationality, disability or ethnic origin. In partnership with Sequoia Adult School.

Last updated September 19, 2026.