Play, Learn, and Grow at Mendham Cooperative Nursery School

We're all about creating a joyful, nurturing space where little ones can thrive!

Discover a Joyful Preschool Experience

Engaging Early Childhood Education

For over 60 years, Mendham Cooperative Nursery School has continued to educate young learners! Our primary goal is to provide a well-rounded, warm, preschool experience that fosters emotional, social, physical, and cognitive development. Our nurturing environment encourages little ones to dive into learning through play and creatively expressing themselves as they begin their educational journey.

A Cooperative Approach to Learning

Family involvement is a key component of the cooperative advantage. Parents are encouraged to participate in their child's classroom experience. Throughout the school year, there are many occasions where parents can take an active role in their child's school day. Our families love to see first-hand their child's interactions and progress in the classroom! There are also opportunities to join our parent-run committees throughout the school year. This participation and engagement is a huge part of what makes our Co-op so special.

Our Little Yellow School

Located in the "little yellow schoolhouse" tucked away on Orchard Street, the Mendham Co-op is a fully accredited and certified nursery school. Inspected regularly by the state of New Jersey and the Mendham Borough Health, Fire, and Building Departments, our tiny but mighty building has three classrooms and two well-stocked art rooms that are bright, cheerful, and comfortable for our students. The fully fenced in property also encompasses several outdoor learning areas.

For the children, the Co-op is a special place to explore, laugh, learn, and develop a positive self-image. Child-centered learning environments encourage and support students to ask questions and solve problems. Small class sizes with low student-teacher ratios ensure for a personalized and individualized educational experience. Community members also visit our school to provide the students with additional learning experiences. Seasonal field trips expand our program even further.

Our Programs

2.5 year old class

The two-and-a-half-year-old class meets two days a week and sets a strong learning foundation through play-based activities. In our cheerful classroom your child will work on the social aspects of school, including being a good friend, sharing, taking turns, and communicating positively. Each day the students participate in circle time, fine motor activities, crafts and large motor play. We strive to offer students a fun learning environment which will have them excited to come to school each day!

3 year old class

Meeting three days per week, the three-year-old class expands their learning by reinforcing colors and shapes and introducing numbers and letters. Students further develop good school habits such as listening to instructions, working within a group, developing independence, and feeling a sense of achievement. We also continue to develop strong fine motor skills, learn name recognition and encourage creativity through process art activities.

Four year old class

Expanding to four days per week (with an optional fifth day), the four-year-old class prepares our oldest learners for kindergarten. Students learn important pre-reading skills and the relationships between letters to words and objects to numbers. Using a variety of learning styles, the children explore different cultures and traditions and perform hands-on science activities which help them gain an understanding of the world around them. The four-year-old curriculum includes learning stations such as math and science, fine motor and writing, art, blocks and sensory centers.

What Parents Are Saying About Mendham Cooperative Nursery School

We had a wonderful experience at Mendham Co-op, watching my son thrive under the guidance of amazing teachers and staff. As a parent, it’s a great feeling knowing that your child is being looked after by people who are truly invested in his academics and emotional wellbeing. The community there is so warm and welcoming, and I am forever grateful for the lifelong friends we have made as a family. I really can’t say enough good things about the Co-op!

E.F.

This preschool is truly something special. The teachers create such a loving, joyful environment where every child feels seen and supported. You can feel the strong sense of community the moment you walk in, and it makes all the difference. We’ve watched so much growth and happiness blossom here.

M.C.

The Mendham Co-op has provided both of my sons with a fantastic first school experience! The school community is so warm and nurturing, we have had an incredibly positive experience not only with teachers and staff but also when getting to know the other families at the school. The Co-op is truly a special place!

L.L.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of education will my child receive at Mendham Co-op?

Our play-based curriculum incorporates developmentally appropriate activities that stimulate academic growth, creativity, and imaginative exploration. Children practice numbers and letters, enjoy music and stories, investigate science and nature, and gain self-confidence through artistic, verbal, and physical expression.

What classes are offered at Mendham Co-op?

We welcome children aged 2.5 to 5 years old. Our programs are designed to meet the unique needs of preschoolers, ensuring they have the tools and support they need to thrive. Our nurturing teachers ease the transition from home to school by supporting strong social connections. Children leave the Co-op confident and prepared for social and academic success in kindergarten and throughout their school years. Mendham Cooperative Nursery School welcomes everyone! We do not discriminate on the basis of gender, race, national origin, religious belief, disability or any basis prohibited by law.

How does the cooperative model work?

As a cooperative nursery school, parents are encouraged to be involved in their child's education. This includes participating in classroom activities, helping with events, and even serving on the board. It creates a warm atmosphere and builds our close-knit community, and as a bonus, your child sees you engaged in their learning!

Are all of your families Mendham residents?

You do not have to reside in Mendham to attend the Co-op! The students who attend our school live in many local communities, including but not limited to, Chester, Randolph, Morristown, and of course, Mendham.

Let’s Connect!

We’d love to hear from you and answer any questions you have about the Co-op!

Email: director@mendhamcoop.com