best reading programs in Worcester, MA

Dear Families, Welcome to the wonderful world of Swift Nature Camp an overnight camp for boys and girls ages 6-15 located in the beautiful Northwoods of Wisconsin. I’m Lonnie, the Camp Director, and I’m thrilled to share what makes SNC such a special place for kids and families alike. For nearly 30 years, our mission has been to create an environment where children can grow, discover, and make lifelong memories. Here at camp, we focus on friendship, personal development, and a deep connection to nature—all in a fun, supportive, and adventurous setting. All this without cell phones One of the things that sets Swift Nature Camp apart is our focus on fostering independence and confidence. Whether it’s trying a new activity like canoeing, taking on a leadership role in a group project, or simply navigating life away from home, camp provides endless opportunities for personal growth. We celebrate each camper’s unique personality and encourage them to step outside their comfort zone in a safe and nurturing way. Seeing kids gain new skills and pride in their accomplishments is one of the most rewarding parts of what we do. For our youngest campers, Discovery Camp is an especially magical experience. Designed only for first-time campers ages 6-12, this shorter program gives kids a chance to experience the joys of camp life in a way that’s just right for them. It’s amazing to watch these kids try new things—from learning about the natural world to singing campfire songs—and leave camp with big smiles and even bigger stories to tell. Discovery Camp is often the beginning of a long and cherished relationship with SNC, and we’re so proud to see those first-time campers grow into confident and capable young people. Another cornerstone of Swift Nature Camp is our connection to the environment. We believe that nature isn’t just a backdrop for camp; it’s a teacher, a playground, and a source of endless wonder. Through hands-on activities like pond studies, wildlife observation, and outdoor adventures, campers develop an appreciation for the natural world that stays with them long after camp ends. The Camp Zoo is always a favorite, campers can even adopt a pet while at camp.Our goal is to inspire kids to become curious, mindful stewards of the environment. At Swift Nature Camp, there’s never a dull day! With hundreds of land and water activities, campers are always engaged and excited. On land, some favorites include the Lego Cabin, Arts & Crafts, Archery, and exploring the Nature Center. On the water, campers learn Canoeing, Fishing, and Swimming, but the absolute favorites are Tubing behind the boat and jumping off the Water Trampoline. Never is there a dull day because every day is packed with fun, adventure, and opportunities to try something new. Of course, none of this would be possible without the amazing friendships that form here. SNC is a place where kids truly feel like they belong. Campers and counselors alike bring warmth, kindness, and enthusiasm to everything we do, creating a strong sense of community. Whether it’s cheering each other on during a game, collaborating on a creative project, or sharing laughs around the campfire, the bonds formed at Swift Nature Camp are something truly special. Thank you for entrusting us with your children. It’s an honor to be part of their journey and to help create memories that will last a lifetime. If you have any questions or just want to chat about camp, don’t hesitate to reach out. I can’t wait to see what the next camp season holds and to welcome your family to another amazing summer at Swift Nature Camp.

At Seven Hills, the mission is to ensure that all people, regardless of their abilities, have access to the support and resources they need to live full, meaningful lives. The foundation understands that every individual has the right to dignity and respect, and works to create a culture of respect and inclusion for everyone. Seven Hills Foundation is committed to promoting and protecting the rights of people to experience all that life has to offer.

At our early child-care and education centers, we believe in the importance of providing quality care and education for infants, toddlers, preschoolers and school-age children. Founded in 2002, we have locations in Hubbardston, Leominster, Barre, Worcester, Fitchburg, and Gardner open Monday through Friday, with hours of operation varying by location. We offer both full-time and part-time care and maintain an open-door policy for all families. Our teachers are certified annually in CPR/First Aid and undergo criminal records, sex offender records and Department of Children and Families background checks. They also promote hands-on and teacher-guided learning and continue their education annually.

Since 1989, our center has proudly served families in Central Massachusetts. We abide by all Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care policies, and strive to ensure that our program provides a fair and enriching experience for each child. We provide a stimulating environment for children from birth to five, with activities designed to foster cognitive, language, social emotional, physical and creative growth. Our creative curriculum helps children to learn and grow in a safe and engaging environment. At our center, we recognize the importance of providing nurturing and supportive care to both children and their families. We are dedicated to providing a safe and enriching learning environment for children in Central Massachusetts, and work with parents and guardians to ensure the best possible experience for each child.

Rainbow Child Development Center (RCDC) provides a safe haven for 250 of Worcester’s most at-risk children, aged 6 weeks to 13 years. The three programs - Family Child Care, Preschool, and Extended Learning School Age Program - are designed to give these children the positive experiences they need to grow and thrive. The Center’s staff and community partners collaborate to offer innovative programs that help to improve the lives of children and their families. Each program is tailored to the individual needs of each child, and helps to build self-esteem and academic success. The Center also offers a variety of healthy lifestyle and nutrition programs, such as cooking classes and gardening projects. Last summer, preschoolers were able to enjoy a harvest of tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash, and broccoli that they had planted and cared for themselves. The after-school program also featured a nutrition series facilitated by the UMass Food Extension Program. RCDC is an invaluable resource for the City of Worcester, providing a high return on investment for the community.

Worcester's Head Start program is devoted to helping children succeed in a rapidly changing world. We recognize that parents are their children's first teachers, and we strive to build a strong relationship with families to ensure the best support for their children. Our goal is to help children develop strong self-esteem and personal growth, while also preparing them for school. We take an individual approach to every child and provide special needs services as needed. At Worcester's Head Start, we understand the importance of community and work to build relationships with families, schools, and other organizations to promote healthy development. We will do our best to provide the resources necessary to ensure that your child is ready to learn when they enter school. We value your role as a parent and are excited to work with you and your child to create a successful future. Our mission is to provide a quality preschool program that equips children with the knowledge and skills they need to thrive in today's competitive world. We are here to provide the best support possible and ensure that every child is given the chance to reach their full potential.

. At the Guild of St Agnes, we understand that quality early childhood education and school-age programs are an essential part of a child’s development. We strive to provide families with quality, affordable programs in a safe, nurturing environment for children aged four weeks to twelve years. As one of the largest early education and care providers in Central Massachusetts, we support approximately 1,600 children at 8 child care sites, 130 licensed family homes, and 11 school-age programs. Our services are licensed and regulated by the MA Department of Early Education and Care, and our centers are accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). This accreditation is the premier designation in the United States for identifying high-quality child care services. Our commitment to providing quality services for children and families is why we are proud to be part of this organization.

At Edward Street, we believe in the potential of every child and the importance of providing them with the best possible start in life. We work to ensure that children have the care and resources they need to grow and thrive. Our team of experts brings expertise in early childhood care and education, creating a strong network of support for children and families. We are committed to supporting early childhood educators in Central Massachusetts and advocating for policies that benefit children and families. With our expertise and dedication, we provide a safe, high-quality learning environment to help young children reach their full potential. We strive to ensure every child has the resources they need to succeed, and we are devoted to making a positive difference in their lives.

Worcester's Head Start program has a mission to help your child succeed in the future. The program works to build on the strengths of your family, while helping your child develop their self-esteem and personal growth. As your child's first teacher, you play an important role in the success of the program, and Head Start works to promote and advocate for your child's healthy development. Head Start is aiming to provide high-quality preschool opportunities for your child, preparing them for their future education. Respectfully taking into account the family’s goals, the program works to enhance the growth of all children, including those with special needs. The program works in collaboration with you, your child, and the community to ensure your child is ready to enter school when the time comes. Worcester's Head Start is committed to giving your child the best possible start in their educational journey. The program strives to develop your child's self-esteem and personal growth, while preparing them to learn and succeed in tomorrow's world. Working in partnership with parents and the community, Head Start provides a high-quality preschool experience and gives every child the opportunity to reach their full potential.

At our program, our teachers are given the flexibility to tailor our program to individual student and family needs. This flexibility allows for creative and sensitive teaching, resulting in many of our teachers having been with us for years. We have thus established a consistent program, while still refreshing and adapting our resources and curriculum with the most current education standards. Our dedicated team of teachers are committed to providing a fun and educational experience for each student. We foster an environment that encourages children to gain the skills and attitudes to become successful in school. We also help children to develop an appreciation and respect for the variety of languages and cultures in our programs.

At our Learning Centers, we prioritize nurturing care over everything else. Our teachers provide a safe and secure environment, where children feel safe to explore, learn and grow. We take pride in creating an atmosphere that is warm and inviting so that children feel comfortable to express themselves and engage in what we have to offer. With our quality teaching and nurturing care, we strive to ensure our children receive the best education and begin to develop the necessary skills for future success.

At Children’s Services of Roxbury, we understand the importance of providing peace of mind to children and families in Massachusetts. We strive to ensure that all children and families in the area have access to our innovative, culturally-relevant programs and services. Our five key focus areas — Behavioral Health; Early Education and Childcare, Intensive Foster Care & Family Support; Housing & Stabilization; and Youth Development — are designed to provide the support and assurance that a child’s peace of mind is essential for strong, healthy families. We’re committed to delivering these services to underserved children and families, helping to create a better future for all.

Welcome to the Guild of St. Agnes! Established in 1913, this is a long-standing, educational, private, non-profit child care agency. The Guild is one of the largest early education and care providers in Central Massachusetts, with services for 1,600 children across 8 child care sites, 130 licensed family homes, and 11 school age programs. All of these services are licensed by the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care. Additionally, our Centers have been accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), the highest standard in the US for identifying quality child care services. At the Guild of St. Agnes, we are proud to provide the highest quality of early education and care for your children. Our long-standing commitment to excellence ensures that your family will receive the absolute best in child care services. With a variety of programs and services to choose from, you can be sure that your children are in safe hands.

At Little Ones Child Care, we strive to provide a safe and nurturing environment where each child can grow and develop in their own unique way. We believe in providing a balanced program of activities that include physical, social, intellectual, and emotional development. Our goal is to ensure that all of the children in our care have the opportunity to reach their full potential.

At Criterion Child Enrichment, we are dedicated to providing developmentally appropriate programs and services to families with young children. Our mission is to nurture, support, and guide young children and their families on their journey of early development and education. Our team of professionals, composed of educators, child development specialists, and early childhood consultants, is dedicated to helping families meet the unique developmental needs of their children. We offer a wide range of programs and services, from educational and recreational activities to coaching and counseling services, to ensure that each child and family receive the individualized support they need. We strive to create an environment that is safe, supportive, and nurturing for young children and their families. Through our services, we hope to foster a strong sense of community and empower families to become active participants in their children's development. We recognize the importance of the family in promoting the health and well-being of children and are committed to providing the resources and support needed to ensure their success.

At First Friends, we understand the importance of providing an enriching learning environment for children that is both fun and educational. We strive to create an exciting and engaging atmosphere where children can explore, learn, succeed, and have fun. Our teachers are dedicated to nurturing each child's individual needs and fostering a safe, secure, and respectful atmosphere. Our classrooms provide plenty of opportunities for social interaction between children and adults, allowing children to build positive relationships and an improved sense of self. With our low teacher/student ratio, our teachers are able to focus on the individual needs of each child. We invite you to come take a tour of our facility and see how First Friends can provide you and your child with a wonderful and memorable experience. Our goal is to create an environment where children can learn and grow, and we look forward to the opportunity to show you our program.

For over three decades, Horizons has been helping to improve the lives of homeless families in Massachusetts. It all began in 1988, when founders Linda Mason, Roger Brown, and Michael Eisenson established the Horizons Fund in order to provide day care and early childhood education to those who were unable to afford it. Initially, the organization shared office space with Bright Horizons, but quickly grew to become Horizons for Homeless Children, a nationally recognized 501(c)(3). Horizons for Homeless Children provides high quality early-education, opportunities for play, and crucial related supports to families who are living in homelessness. Through its efforts, the organization has been able to help countless children and families in Massachusetts. It is an invaluable resource that has been making a difference in the lives of those in need for more than 30 years. Since 1988, Horizons has been working hard to make sure that homeless families have access to the same resources that other families do. Its founders have created a legacy of providing day care and early childhood education to those who need it, as well as opportunities for play and other related supports. The organization has grown to become a beacon of hope for those in need, and continues to make an impact in Massachusetts and beyond.

At Appleseed Early Learning Center, we strive to provide quality care and education for today's youth in the Worcester, Massachusetts, area. We understand the importance of a warm and nurturing environment, and our staff is dedicated to attending to the individual needs of each child. Our program is designed to stimulate and develop each child to the fullest potential. We focus on the process, rather than the product, so that each child has the opportunity to succeed and build self-esteem. We believe that learning should be fun and enjoyable, and our staff is dedicated to making sure this is the case.

At Head Start in Worcester, we understand the importance of giving children the foundation they need to be successful in the future. Our preschool program is designed to promote self-esteem and personal growth, while also preparing your child to enter school and be ready to learn. We value the role of family and recognize that parents are the first and most important teachers in a child's life. We are committed to working together to build on the strengths, goals, and values of your family, while advocating for the healthy development of every child, including those with special needs. Head Start in Worcester is dedicated to providing a comprehensive learning experience that will help your child thrive. Our mission is to provide a high-quality preschool program that sets your child up for success in the future. We are passionate about helping children build their self-esteem and fostering their personal growth, so that they may enter school with the skills and confidence they need to excel. Additionally, we recognize the importance of working together with families to build on their strengths and goals, and to offer support to those with special needs. We are proud to be an active partner in your child's education, and look forward to advocating for their healthy development. Head Start in Worcester is your child's first step towards a bright future. Our program is designed to help your child acquire the skills that will help them succeed in tomorrow's world. We strive to build a strong foundation that includes self-esteem, personal growth, and readiness for school. We are committed to working in partnership with you, your child, and the community to promote and advocate for healthy development. We understand the essential role of families in the learning process, and recognize that parents are their child's first and most important teachers. We are dedicated to building on the strengths, goals, and values of your family to ensure your child is given the best opportunity to reach their full potential.

At our daycare, we offer a program that caters to the unique needs of children aged 1 month to 9 years. We understand the importance of giving children the opportunity to explore and grow in all five areas of development— cognitive, social, emotional, physical, and moral. Our program is designed to meet the needs of children from all backgrounds, regardless of race, creed, lifestyles, sex, disability, political beliefs, national origin, cultural heritage, or sexual orientation. At our daycare, we strive to foster a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment for all children. Our program emphasizes the importance of nurturing the differences and needs of each individual child, so that they can grow and develop to their full potential. We are committed to providing the best possible care for your child, no matter their background. Our daycare provides a 52 week program that is devoted to helping your child reach their goals and grow to their fullest. Our staff are trained to be sensitive and understanding to the needs of children from all different backgrounds and are dedicated to creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. We are committed to fostering a safe and inclusive environment for all children, so that each one can reach their full potential.

Happy Feet WeeCare is located in Worcester, MA and is dedicated to providing quality childcare to families in the area. Our goal is to ensure that all children are provided with the resources and environment to reach their developmental milestones. We provide a safe and nurturing environment for children to learn through play and foster a love of learning. Our focus on developmental play-based activities allows us to offer a diverse education for all. Plus, our daycare offers a culturally diverse learning environment by offering programs in Portuguese. At Happy Feet WeeCare, we are committed to giving children the best possible foundation for their education and development. Our goal is to create a loving, compassionate, and encouraging atmosphere for children to reach their full potential.

At Webster Square Day Care Center, Inc., we understand that providing an optimal environment for children and their families is a top priority. Our experienced staff is committed to providing high-quality, responsive care tailored to each child’s individual needs. In our center-based and family home daycare settings, we strive to create a safe, healthy, nurturing, and stimulating environment, so that all children can grow, thrive, learn, and reach their full potential. At Webster Square Day Care Center, Inc., we know that the care your child receives is of utmost importance. Our team of professionals has the experience and knowledge to give your child the individualized care they need. Our center-based and family home daycare settings provide a safe and stimulating environment, with the goal of helping children reach their full potential. We strive to create a nurturing, healthy atmosphere that allows children to learn, grow, and thrive.

At WoodsEdge, we understand that children learn best in an environment that is filled with joy and exploration. We are committed to providing an enriching experience for young minds and fostering relationships to encourage growth and development. Our teachers create a space that allows children to freely explore and express themselves, discovering new ideas and interests in a way that is tailored to their individual learning style. We prioritize play and discovery as we strive to nurture each child’s potential. We are passionate about creating a positive, safe, and stimulating atmosphere at WoodsEdge that encourages children to learn through play, discovery, and exploration of nature. Our teachers have the skills and experience to support and guide each student’s individual learning experience, and our commitment to providing an enriching and joyful educational environment is unwavering.

At the Guild, we take great pride in our commitment to the children we serve. Our center-based programs use Teaching Strategies GOLD, an assessment, reporting, and curriculum planning system that helps us plan meaningful activities that match your child's strengths, needs, and interests. This system also allows us to track your child's progress over time and to build a strong foundation for them to be ready to succeed in school. All of our preschool classrooms have a teacher with a bachelor's degree in Early Education or a related field and many of our teacher assistants have associate degrees or are currently enrolled in college. In addition to our child care programs, the Guild provides parents with supplemental services such as nutritious meals, behavioral health services and referrals, and transportation if they qualify. By offering these services, we work to serve the whole child and support you as you raise them. The Guild is dedicated to giving children the best care and education possible, and we hope to continue to do so for years to come.

They provide a fun, safe and loving learning environment from newborns to school aged children. The environment helps to promote the development of social, physical, cognitive, creative and emotional skills to help children get ready for Kindergarten. This child care center offers more than just fun activities, they provide breakfast, lunch, and snacks. They also have groups, reading & story time, music, puzzle time, free play and of course, plenty of outdoor time. The staff at LEARN & PLAY Child Care are trained in child development and they create a program that is tailored to the individual needs of each child. They are dedicated to providing a quality learning experience, so children can grow and develop to their fullest potential.

Welcome to First Steps Childcare! As a licensed Family Childcare Educator and a mother myself, I understand the importance of finding a safe and nurturing environment for your child. Here, we strive to provide a place of exploration, creativity and learning. Our daycare offers age-appropriate learning toys, free play, snacks, art and craft activities, and both indoor and outdoor fun. We are also proud to be smoke- and pet-free, and are certified through the EEC. At First Steps Childcare, we recognize the importance of creating a loving and caring environment for your child and are committed to making sure they have an enriching and enjoyable experience. We hope you choose us to provide a safe and comfortable home away from home for your little one!

At Little Bright Stars Childcare Center, families have the assurance of knowing their children are in the best care. The center provides a secure and supportive learning environment, with quality teaching and nurturing care that is tailored to each child’s individual needs. With an emphasis on a shared family philosophy, teachers have the flexibility to create an atmosphere of creativity, sensitivity and longevity. Little Bright Stars Childcare Center is committed to providing the best care for your child!

At our school, we believe that writing should be an integral part of every subject area and grade level. To ensure that our students are developing their writing skills, we will be measuring our school's focus through school-wide writing assessments. These assessments will include a variety of formative and summative assessments administered at every grade level. Through this approach, we will be able to see our students' understanding and comprehension of both fiction and nonfiction literature and texts. We also want to emphasize open response writing, which will allow our students to express their understanding of the material in an individualized manner. To ensure that our school is implementing best practices in writing, we will be using a consistent and systematic approach. We are confident that this method will help our students grow as writers and help our school get the best results.

The joy of working with children is something I’ve been fortunate enough to have experienced for the past 15 years. I’ve been able to watch them grow and learn, and it has been an incredibly rewarding experience. I run a home-based child care program, which focuses on helping build independence in the children. I strive to create a warm and inviting atmosphere for them to feel comfortable in, and one of the most fun activities I do with them is reading books. I'm constantly adjusting my program to meet the needs of each individual child, while also teaching them important academic and social skills. I partner with parents and family members, so that they know I'm here to help them and their children. This job has given me so much joy and fulfillment, and I'm grateful to be able to share my skills and experience with families.

Kumon’s after-school program is a great way to help your child reach their academic potential. With a focus on individualized learning, your child will develop the skills and confidence needed to succeed. The program encourages a love of learning and the motivation to learn on their own. Through personalized instruction, your child will advance at their own pace, mastering each concept before moving on. With a strong academic foundation, critical thinking and problem solving abilities, your child has the potential to reach their goals.

Up Up and Play Academy is a family-run childcare center with certified teachers and a team of experienced professionals. With a low teacher turnover rate, many staff members have been together for more than fifteen years. This gives the children a sense of stability and helps to create a secure environment where they can explore, play and learn. At Up Up and Play Academy, they understand the importance of early education and combine Montessori methods with traditional instruction. This combination encourages creativity, exploration and social interactions, while providing a safe and caring environment. They strive to offer young children the best possible learning experience.

At our program, we strive to meet the needs of the community. Our activities are designed to help children grow in all five areas of development: cognitive, social, emotional, physical, and moral. We recognize that each child is different and we are committed to nurturing these differences. We also acknowledge that children learn best through exploration and hands-on activities, so our age-appropriate activities and expectations encourage them to make decisions and take responsibility. Additionally, we firmly oppose any form of sexism, as limiting activities according to gender can prevent children from reaching their full potential.

At the Gentle Circle Learning Center, parents can be assured that their children will be in a safe, nurturing environment. The center has a maximum capacity of 38 children, and participates in a subsidized child care program. Infants, toddlers, and preschoolers are all provided with a curriculum that promotes physical, social, emotional, and intellectual growth. The center’s primary focus is to create a loving, happy, and fun atmosphere for all children. The staff at Gentle Circle Learning Center strive to create a gentle, soothing, and creative environment for all of the children. With regular activities designed to stimulate and encourage development, parents can rest assured that their little ones are receiving the highest quality of care. The center also offers a variety of programs that foster learning and exploration, providing a fun, educational experience for all.

Rainbow Child Development Center (RCDC) offers a comprehensive, high-impact approach to early childhood education. Located in Worcester, Massachusetts, the Center serves 250 at-risk children from 6 weeks to 13 years old. With three innovative programs - Family Child Care, Preschool, and Extended Learning School Age Program - and support from community partners, RCDC is transforming the lives of children and their families. Experienced teachers and administrators use leading-edge programming, assessment best practices, and strong partnerships with parents to help bridge the achievement gap and break the cycle of poverty. RCDC’s holistic approach to education helps families rise above poverty and become self-sufficient. The City of Worcester sees a great return on investment for their support of RCDC and its work to give children the best possible start in life.

Parents of all nationalities are invited to send their children to an exciting camp that is full of activities to keep them busy and entertained. The camp is designed to bring together children of various backgrounds to foster friendships and promote good family values. The camp has a variety of activities to choose from, such as teaching Italian culture through arts and crafts, music, and more. Additionally, camp-goers can exercise their bodies by playing sports like soccer, tennis bache, basketball, and more. Parents can rest assured that their children are in good hands, and that the camp is a safe and fun environment for children of all nationalities to come together and build meaningful relationships.