best reading programs in Cambridge, MA

For over 50 years, Frontier Camp has been dedicated to making disciples of Jesus by sharing God’s Word amidst the beauty of His creation. Since our founding in 1969, we’ve been licensed by the Texas Department of State Health Services and are proudly accredited by the American Camping Association. We’re also a member of the Christian Camping and Conference Association. Our mission is to use Christian camping and outdoor recreation as a means to support local churches in fulfilling the Great Commission—evangelizing people of all ages and discipling believers toward deeper maturity in Christ. Frontier Camp offers a dual ministry: during the summer, we host a 10-week youth camp, and throughout the rest of the year, we serve as a retreat facility for churches and like-minded religious organizations. Whether through summer camps or retreats, our goal remains the same: to expose people to Christ and encourage their spiritual growth through His Word and by reflecting His character in everything we do. While we provide top-notch recreation and exciting programming, the heart of our camp is the spiritual impact, rooted in the truth of God’s inerrant Word.

At KinderCare, we know that your child is capable of so much from the very beginning. That’s why we created Early Foundations®, an exclusive curriculum designed to give your little one a head start. Our Education Team has pulled together the very best parts of leading educational philosophies to create an approach that is tailored to meet the needs of each and every one of our youngest learners. From the very beginning, your child’s learning is at the heart of KinderCare. We recognize that even the tiniest of babies are capable of learning, and every coo, crawl, and creation is proof of that. That’s why our child care programs put education first, and we don’t rely on an existing curriculum. Instead, our Education Team has crafted Early Foundations®—a unique approach that you won’t find anywhere else. Our dedicated team has combined the best elements of the world’s leading educational philosophies, allowing us to give your little one the best start possible.

At Bright Horizons at Kendall Square, we’re dedicated to providing the best early education experience for your family. Our teachers have years of experience, and are committed to helping your child get the most out of their time with us. We have a range of activities to keep your child engaged, from exploring the natural world in our garden, to discovering books in our reading nook. We also have three age-specific outdoor areas, to help children to explore and learn beyond the classroom. At Bright Horizons at Kendall Square, we’re passionate about providing the highest quality early education to your family. Our teachers are highly experienced, and are committed to working closely with you to ensure your child makes the most of their time with us.

Welcome to Bright Horizons at Mass Ave! We understand that the start of a child's journey is so important, and we want to ensure that your family has the best start. Our center is a safe, nurturing and stimulating place for your little one to learn, grow and reach their full potential. We serve children ages 6 weeks to 5 years, and our teacher-to-child ratio meets the highest standards of quality as outlined by the National Association for the Education of Young Children and the Department of Early Education and Care. At Bright Horizons at Mass Ave, we prioritize the well-being of your child and family. We recognize the importance of a strong start and provide a safe, encouraging environment for your little one to learn and thrive. Our center accommodates children from 6 weeks to 5 years, and our teacher-to-child ratio meets the high standards of quality set forth by the National Association for the Education of Young Children and the Department of Early Education and Care.

At The New School of Music, we provide a non-competitive, student-centered learning environment that is designed to foster creativity and a love of music. Our dedicated staff of professional musicians is passionate about teaching and providing an enriching experience for all of our students. Our comprehensive program includes private and group lessons, master classes, vacation programs, seasonal family events, and faculty and community concerts. We provide a wide range of classes for adults and children of all ages and levels, ensuring that everyone can find the perfect class or program to fit their needs. At The New School of Music, we are committed to making music accessible to all. No matter your race, creed, national origin, or socio-economic level, we will work with you to find the right program or class. We strive to create a supportive and encouraging atmosphere that celebrates the creative spirit of all of our students.

If you're in the mood for an urban adventure, the Cambridge YMCA is easy to get to. We are conveniently located in Central Square, on the Red Line for public transportation. Buses frequently pass by our Mass Ave. site, and we are approximately halfway between MIT and Harvard University, directly across from City Hall. If you're driving, the Mass Pike, Storrow Drive, and Memorial Drive will take you right to us. Our parking lot is located directly behind the building on Green Street, and there is metered parking available on Mass Ave. and the surrounding streets.

We are thrilled to announce that we are now in our BRAND NEW space at 795 Concord Avenue! Our commitment to providing a high-quality, play-based and child-centered program has been recognized with the Wicked Local Readers Choice award for best preschool in Cambridge, for the sixth year in a row. At Evergreen Day School, we believe that children learn best through play and exploration. Our curriculum is designed to engage curious minds and encourage creative expression. We provide a nurturing atmosphere for toddlers to five year olds, where they can grow and explore in a safe and stimulating environment. We are so proud to have expanded our program, and to have moved into our BRAND NEW space at 795 Concord Avenue. At Evergreen Day School, our dedication to providing a positive learning experience has been recognized by the Wicked Local Readers Choice awards for six consecutive years. We are proud to be the #1 preschool in Cambridge and look forward to continuing to offer a high-quality, play-based and child-centered program in our BRAND NEW space.

At Henry Buckner School, our goal is to help children become strong, healthy, and successful members of our community. We strive to create a nurturing, secure, and positive learning environment for every student, regardless of their individual differences in learning styles. We offer a cooperative effort between school, parents, and community to ensure that all students are given high expectations and age-appropriate instruction. We provide a variety of programs to cater to the needs and interests of our students, including infant and toddler care, pre-school, after-school programming, and an exciting summer enrichment program. We are proud to be a private school that emphasizes the well-being of students of all cultures, nationalities, and creeds. Our commitment to helping children become well-rounded, healthy, and successful members of the community starts with providing a safe and positive learning environment.

Families in the area can benefit from East End House’s programming that includes academic support, career guidance, and wellness services. These services are designed to help children and youth develop the skills they need to succeed in school, in their careers, and in life. At East End House, we believe that all children and youth should have access to the resources they need to thrive. We are dedicated to providing the necessary support to help them reach their full potential.

At Cambridge Nursery School, we strive to create a learning environment where children can explore, ask questions, and solve problems, all while having fun. We remain committed to Abigail Eliot’s original vision of providing each child with the chance to grow at their own pace and to nurture their imaginations.

At HYCCC, we take a unique approach to childcare. We draw from the schools of Reggio Emilia and the theories of Vygotsky and Piaget, creating an environment that is both warm and safe, as well as stimulating. We put play at the center of our approach, allowing children to learn new skills and internalize concepts. Our teachers set the stage for learning by providing a flexible, welcoming classroom that caters to the children’s interests. To ensure that our curriculum is developmentally appropriate, we use a combination of observation, reflection, and documentation. We also involve parents in our community, encouraging cooperation and respect among all members of our community.

At Cambridge Presbyterian Church, we believe that the Lord is a creative and loving God who gave us minds to think and learn. Through worship grounded in scripture and gilded in song, we celebrate the love of God in Christ. We strive to bring Christ into our lives and living by using our minds to think deeply and our hands to serve others. At Cambridge Presbyterian Church, we are committed to offering affordable care for pre-school children through Little Folks Fellowship. For more than 30 years, we’ve been providing a safe and nurturing environment where children can develop their early skills through active play. We strive to help children learn and understand the love of Jesus and how to apply it to their daily lives.

At Malik Academy and Al Bustan, we’re dedicated to providing a high-quality education for all our students. Through our full-time private Islamic school, we strive to cultivate a safe and nurturing learning environment where students can reach their full potential. Our academic programs emphasize Islamic values, critical thinking skills, and the development of good character. At Malik Academy and Al Bustan, we believe in the importance of developing leadership and civic engagement. Through our student clubs and organizations, we provide meaningful opportunities for our students to gain experience in public speaking, teamwork, and problem-solving. We are proud of the way our students have used their skills to serve and improve our community.

At Margaret Fuller Neighborhood House, we are proud to have served our community for over a century. We strive to provide resources and programs to immigrants and all generations of individuals in our community. Our food pantry, out-of-school time program, summer camp, and outreach to young adults are just a few of the ways we provide assistance. Additionally, we offer health-related programs, community organizing, and technology classes to those in need. We also host many community-wide events such as financial classes, exercise classes, poetry writing classes, and drumming classes. We strive to foster a sense of community and invite the Port community to join us at meetings and local gatherings. Our goal is to provide our community with resources and support that will help create a brighter future.

Welcome to the Porter Square school! Located in the historic Henderson Carriage House Building at 2067 Mass Ave, this school is a great option for parents looking for a convenient, safe location for their children. Just minutes from both Porter and Davis Squares, the school has a large community room that can be used for large group activities such as yoga classes or special guest visits. The five classrooms are designed with your children in mind. Each room is bright and inviting, providing the perfect learning environment for kids of all ages. From yoga classes to special guests, the Porter Square school is the perfect place to help your children grow and learn. Whether you're looking for a safe, convenient place for your children or a place where they can explore and learn, the Porter Square school is the perfect choice. With five bright and inviting classrooms, a large community room for special activities, and its convenient location, this school is a great option for parents.

At Cambridge KinderCare, our teachers strive to provide a safe, enriching, and nurturing environment for your child. Our classrooms utilize a play-based curriculum to promote learning through fun, engaging activities. We believe that children learn best when they are actively engaged in their environment and feel supported by their teachers. It is our goal to provide a stimulating and engaging learning experience for each child. We understand that starting daycare can be both exciting and nerve-wracking for families. We strive to make the transition as seamless as possible by offering a wide range of services and programs to ensure your child feels safe, secure, and supported. From our welcoming environment to our experienced and passionate teachers, you can rest assured knowing your child is in a safe and nurturing environment. At Cambridge KinderCare, we are committed to providing a warm and welcoming environment where your child can learn, grow, and thrive. Our teachers and staff are dedicated to creating a positive learning experience for your child. We believe in inspiring a love of learning by providing a stimulating and engaging curriculum that encourages exploration and discovery. We understand that the health and safety of your child is of the utmost importance. That’s why we have implemented rigorous safety protocols and health guidelines to ensure that your child is always in a safe and secure environment. Our teachers are experienced and passionate about creating a safe, enriching, and nurturing environment for your child. At Cambridge KinderCare, we strive to provide a welcoming and supportive atmosphere for you and your family. We are committed to being a part of your child’s early learning journey and helping them to develop a lifelong love of learning. We are honored to have the opportunity to be part of your family’s journey. Welcome to Cambridge KinderCare!

At our school, we understand that every child is unique and full of potential. We strive to create a safe and stimulating environment that encourages children to learn and grow. We are committed to creating a positive school experience, one that respects the different backgrounds, experiences and dignity of each child and family. We also recognize the importance of transitioning children into school. To help with this, we offer a variety of activities and resources to ensure a smooth transition. From family classroom visits and welcome books to GNS t-shirts and summer playdates at the park, we make sure that each child feels comfortable and excited to start school.

At our school, we understand how important it is for children to be central to their own learning. We prioritize creating a safe and respectful environment that allows kids to collaborate and co-construct knowledge with their peers. Our teachers and parents are also key players in this process, as they facilitate, guide, observe, support, and inspire children throughout their learning journey. We also recognize the importance of the environment as a “third teacher.” Our classrooms are designed to foster a sense of wonder and curiosity, so kids can explore and discover new things. This flexible approach allows us to customize our curriculum each year, as children, families, teachers, and the classroom space come together to define the path for the year.

At our program, we believe that children should be at the center of their learning. We also value the importance of the family as the child’s first teacher, and the environment as the child’s third teacher. We strive to create a stimulating learning environment that is based on the Reggio Emilia-inspired philosophy of child-centered learning through play and exploration. Our teaching teams plan, develop, and implement curricula based on the development goals and emergent interests of the children. Through ongoing observations and documentation of children’s learning, our teachers and the children embark on a journey of inquiry and exploration as a community, in small groups, and individually. We are a community of learners that continuously reflect and learn from one another.

TSC Child Care, Inc. is a non-profit child care program that has been providing quality care for children since 1987. Located in the Volpe Center in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the program is currently licensed to provide care for 56 children, including infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. The team at TSC Child Care, Inc. is dedicated to creating a safe and nurturing atmosphere for both the children and their parents. They strive to foster cooperation, respect, and individuality among the children. Age-appropriate curriculum is designed to provide children with opportunities for physical, emotional, social, and cognitive development. Parents looking for a reliable and caring child care program for their little ones can count on TSC Child Care, Inc. to provide a safe and nurturing environment for their children to learn, grow, and thrive.

At Botanic Gardens Children’s Center, we strive to create an environment where children feel safe, respected, and seen. Our teachers nurture each child as an individual, helping them to grow and reach their fullest potential. We embrace the unique gifts and talents each child brings to our community and strive to provide a safe and nurturing environment for families and staff of all backgrounds.

At Dragonfly, we provide a safe and nurturing environment for children to play and learn. Our program includes a variety of activities such as games, arts and crafts, outdoor explorations, dance, free play, and more. We also encourage and foster the development of self-help skills and cooperative play. Dragonfly Afterschool Program is a non-profit parent cooperative in Cambridge, MA, dedicated to providing engaging and developmentally appropriate experiences for children age 5 through 4th grade who attend the Graham and Parks School. We are a play-based program that promotes social growth, learning, discovery, appropriate physical activity, and a sense of community. Our fully licensed program by the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care provides a safe and nurturing environment for children to play and learn, as well as encouraging their development of self-help skills and cooperative play. Our program offers a variety of activities for children to engage in, such as games, arts and crafts, outdoor explorations, dance, free play, and more. We strive to ensure that our program is well-rounded and stimulating so that children can get the most out of their afterschool experience. At Dragonfly, we believe in providing a fun and enriching experience for all the children in our care. Our staff is passionate about helping every child reach their full potential and build meaningful relationships with their peers. We encourage parents to get involved in our program, and we are always open to feedback and suggestions in order to make our program as successful as possible.

Parents in the Cambridge and Somerville communities have a unique opportunity with 243 Harvard Street. Established in 1966 as part of the Model Cities program, this center offers state-of-the-art care for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. With the new infant/toddler component, the center has met the high demand for childcare in the area. The center is also committed to providing tuition assistance for Area IV residents. This is made possible through an agreement with the City of Cambridge, where rent for the center is reinvested in the community. With 68 children currently enrolled, 243 Harvard Street offers parents an innovative and affordable childcare option.

At The Learning Circle, we’re dedicated to providing an enriched childcare experience for all of our students. Our composite classrooms combine age groups, a practice that is now more common in childcare settings, but was rare when the school was first founded. This was all thanks to Julie, the founder and childcare professional, her leadership and persistence was instrumental in transforming the potential for learning and care in preschool classrooms throughout the state. Parent’s have noticed the benefits of this multi-age environment, observing that older children set an example for the younger ones, while the younger children have their own lessons to teach. We believe that when children learn together, they grow together.

At our Kendall Square location, we have designed a space with four age groups in mind, creating individual classrooms, quiet spaces and shared space. Each room is connected to our community space with 15-foot windows, so parents can observe their children while they learn and play. We offer special activities for each age group such as gross motor activities, music and movement, and other classes. Plus, our location is conveniently located near the Kendall Square T and just two blocks from a great playground. In the winter, we even have access to weekly outdoor concerts and an ice skating rink nearby! At our Kendall Square location, we strive to create a fun and engaging learning environment that caters to the individual needs of each age group. With special activities, convenient access to public transportation, and great outdoor activities nearby, parents and their children can have a memorable experience here.

Parents, have you been searching for a childcare center that is both reliable and accredited? Look no further than The Children’s Village! Established in 1972, this independent non-profit preschool and childcare center has been providing a safe and stimulating environment for children aged 10 weeks to 5 years for nearly five decades. With its accreditation from the National Association for the Education of Young Children, The Children’s Village is a leader in early childhood education. The center offers breakfast, lunch, and an afternoon snack, as well as a multitude of engaging activities to foster a disposition for lifelong learning through play. Don’t waste another minute – check out The Children’s Village today!

At Oxford Street Daycare Cooperative, we understand that parents are the cornerstone of a child’s learning and development. We strive to create an environment that is an extension of home, where parents and staff are equally involved in the daily life of the center. We believe that the participation of parents in the classroom helps to bridge the emotional gap between school and home, as well as provide creative opportunities for parents to enjoy their children and meet their children’s friends. By keeping parents and staff informed and participating fully in the cooperative, we are able to provide a rich and nurturing learning environment for the children.

Our well-rounded program is designed to increase confidence, build self-esteem, teach social responsibility, and foster appreciation of the world around us. We make learning fun! Our stimulating, multi-sensory environment provides children with the opportunity to explore and discover the world through the music, arts, and culture of the world. We create a safe and nurturing environment where each individual child can thrive and reach their fullest potential. At Rock and Roll Daycare, we believe that every child deserves the best start in life, and that's why our program is designed to provide the highest quality of care and education.

At Bright Horizons at University Park, our experienced educators create an environment with your child at the center and develop activities that spark their curiosity, foster creativity, and build their skills. Come by and see us today. Bright Horizons at University Park is your child's home away from home, and our team is dedicated to providing a safe, nurturing environment where learning and fun go hand in hand. We look forward to meeting you and your family and showing you why we’re the best choice for your child’s early years. At Bright Horizons at University Park, we believe in creating an environment that encourages your child to explore and learn. Our reading nook and library spark interest in books, while our fish tanks, outdoor learning area, and gardening boxes promote exploration of the natural world. We also have dramatic play areas to boost your child’s social and emotional development. Our teachers are highly experienced and have been with us for many years. They love what they do and are dedicated to helping your family every step of the way. We create activities that spark your child’s curiosity, foster creativity, and build their skills. We invite you to come and visit us. Bright Horizons at University Park is a home away from home for your child, where learning and fun go hand in hand. Our team is committed to providing a safe and nurturing environment where your child can thrive. We’d love to meet you and your family and show you why we’re the best choice for your child’s early years.

At Ecole Française Greater Boston, we understand that children learn best when they are engaged and having fun. That’s why our summer camps are designed to foster exploration and social-emotional development through age-appropriate activities in French. We strive to create a collaborative, caring, and positive educational environment where campers can build a truly bilingual identity and strong foundations that will help them thrive. Each camp week is organized in a theme-based program that includes activities like sports, arts, music, yoga, building, crafts, theater, nature, and cooking. Campers rotate through four classes each day, each lasting one hour, so that they can explore and learn in a fun and meaningful way.

At Campus Child Care (CCC), we understand the importance of quality care for young children and their families. Founded in 2017, CCC is a non-profit organization that has merged six independent centers serving the Harvard community on both the Cambridge and Allston campuses. Our goal is to provide administration and support services to the centers so that their leaders can focus on providing a great experience to kids, parents, and staff. CCC has worked hard to make sure administrative functions are easier and more efficient, while also encouraging collaboration across centers and creating long-term strategic plans. We also have an agreement with Harvard and some of the local communities providing subsidized care for residents. At CCC, we strive to ensure the best care for the youngest members of our community. We believe that providing quality care is key to helping children and their families thrive.

Our Summer Passport program is here to provide an inclusive, global community of children from over 20 countries who come together to form lasting friendships and learn from each other. We believe that children should have the opportunity to explore the world around them in a fun and safe environment. Our Summer Passport program allows campers to appreciate cultural similarities and differences while engaging in a range of activities such as science & nature, music & movement, arts & crafts, and water sports. Our diverse and welcoming community also provides an enriching experience for campers from ages 18 months to 11 years. At Summer Passport, we strive to make the process of finding the perfect summer program for your child as stress-free as possible. Our aim is to provide an unforgettable experience for your camper and a passport to adventure for the whole family. Join us in creating a global community of friends and explorers this summer!

At the Cambridge YMCA, we believe that our mission of promoting and inspiring life-long development for children, adults, and families is best achieved by offering a broad range of activities that are designed to meet the needs of a diverse community. Our programs are tailored to build healthy spirits, minds, and bodies for all, and to foster lasting personal and social change. Our commitment to youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility, enables us to create a safe and nurturing environment that strengthens individuals, families, and the community as a whole.

We believe that every child is different and that no two children learn the same way. That's why we have created our Life Essentials® learning approach and curriculum. Our Life Essentials® learning approach and curriculum encourages children to learn and progress in their own way and at their own pace. We recognize that children have unique personalities and interests and by providing an environment that is stimulating and engaging, we are able to foster curiosity and creativity. With our nurturing teachers and stimulating environment, your child will be able to explore and grow socially, physically, emotionally, and intellectually. At Kiddie Academy of Cambridge, we are committed to ensuring that your child progresses in their own way and at their own pace. We provide a safe and nurturing environment that allows your child to explore their imagination and curiosity every day. Our Life Essentials® learning approach and curriculum is designed to support your child's development and allows them to progress at their own pace. With our highly trained teachers and stimulating environment, your child will have the opportunity to grow socially, physically, emotionally, and intellectually.

At our school, we are taking a closer look at our current practices and policies to ensure that all students have equitable access to the resources and supports they need to be successful. Last but not least, we are committed to holding ourselves and our students accountable for their learning. We believe that by providing a safe and nurturing environment, our students will be motivated to take risks, learn from their mistakes, and grow in their understanding. This school year, we are prioritizing Inclusion, Equity, and Accountability. We are dedicated to creating an inclusive school culture that promotes belonging and connection, providing equitable access to instructional opportunities, and holding ourselves and our students accountable for their learning. We are confident that by doing this, our students will have a successful and enriching school year.