Our Programs

Educational program

The fundamental goal of the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Nursery School is to nurture feelings of worth and self-esteem in each and every child. Our educational program is an extension of our natural environment, the park in which we are located. Weekly themes including insects and the seasons have our children out in the field like little scientists, counting the legs on bugs and the points on leaves, or observing the outdoors with a keen eye in order to “paint like Claude Monet.” Our program’s themes extend to a variety of topics about which children love to learn, from airplanes, to foreign travel (passport required), to timely events such as the Olympics.

What does a typical day at BCC look like?

Children arrive between 9:00 am and 9:20 am to ride preschooler bikes and play outdoors (weather permitting) until we line up at 9:30 to head indoors. Parents often linger, younger siblings in tow, to chat with one another and the teachers during this initial time outdoors. After 9:30 am, Circle Time ensues, during which children learn in a variety of ways about the topic of the week (this may include another trip outside if relevant). Projects and free play wind circle time up, followed by play at the Norwood Park upper playground, a return to school for snack, music and/or dance, and then a final Circle Time.

Morning Cooperative Program

The school is open Monday through Friday, with 3, 4 and 5 day options. The morning runs from 9:00 am until 12:00 pm. Two intermingling classes are each staffed by a teacher and a co-oping parent.

Lunch Bunch

This optional afternoon program is available Monday through Thursday from 12:00 noon until 2:30 pm. Lunch Bunch themes: Jump for Joy (large motor development), Garden Club, Science, Game Day, Letter of the Week.