.avif)
CNS follows the Cambridge Public School calendar with the option to enroll in up to six weeks of summer sessions.
CNS is open daily from 8:30am - 5:00pm and is designed to offer flexibility for families. Most children attend the Morning Program (8:30am - 12:30pm) 5-days a week, and families can pick and choose between full-day or lunch-bunch options on a schedule and per-diem rate that works for you.
At CNS, teachers guide a daily routine full of discovery, creativity, and hands-on learning. Each morning begins with an extended period of free play, where children can explore independently or collaborate in small groups. Teachers select topics to investigate based on the children’s interests, creating opportunities for curiosity-driven projects in art, science, dramatic play, manipulatives, water or sand, and large blocks. Storytelling is woven throughout the day—teachers read, explore, and even act out books that spark the children’s imagination and questions. As the morning unfolds, the class comes together for a whole-group meeting, snack, and shared story time. Weather permitting, every class spends time outside, exploring and playing in CNS’s outdoor space.
During Lunch Bunch, children not only enjoy a meal together, but also practice important social skills, which are key to their social and emotional development. Lunch Bunch is available on a per diem basis (subject to availability) or at a semester rate. Semester rates are listed below.
Students enjoy lunch with their classmates and build valuable social skills. Then all students participated in a mandatory rest time. Afternoon Program is available on a per diem basis (subject to availability) or at a semester rate. Semester rates are listed below.
Students enjoy lunch with their classmates and build valuable social skills. Then all students participated in a mandatory rest time. Students engage in more free play, collaborative games and projects after rest time. Extended Day Program is available on a per diem basis (subject to availability) or at a semester rate. Semester rates are listed below.
CNS has a few spots available for children attending the CPP & Kindergarten programs ages 3 (by September) to 5 (by end of June).
We generally follow the Cambridge Public School Calendar and are closed for the same days as well as some additional days: See our calendar for information. Semester rates are listed below.
Summer tuition is non-refundable, and must be paid in full for your child’s application to be complete. Download the application here cns_summer_camp_2026_registration.pdf
.
Summer at CNS is a relaxed time for children involving lots of outdoor play and nature exploration in our shady, breezy playground. The program runs for five weeks; parents may sign up for individual weeks, assuming space.
We welcome new families to participate in the summer program. It is a good opportunity for incoming children to become familiar with many of the daily routines, the teachers, and other children. Children often have an easier time managing the transition from home to school, and settling into the classroom in the fall after spending a few weeks at our summer program.
In some years we receive more applications than we have spaces available. In reviewing applications, the formation of a well-balanced group is the main consideration, as well as the date of application. We give priority to current families, siblings, alumni, and to families that add diversity to the school. In general, we seek to provide continuity within the community by giving priority also to families who expect to enroll their child for two years.
If we have more families enroll than we have spots available, we add any remaining families to a waiting list. If any initial offers of admission are declined, families from the waiting list are contacted. If your child is admitted and you decide to accept a space at CNS, a $1,000 Holding Deposit will be required to secure your child's space.
CNS is committed to welcoming a diverse community. CNS does not discriminate in its enrollment or hiring with regard to a person's race, ethnic and national origin, religion, marital status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, HIV status, political beliefs or disabilities. Toilet training status is never a consideration for enrollment.
