Mission
The Acton Barn Cooperative Preschool works together with families of all kinds to provide a nurturing, play based, inclusive educational experience for children ages 2.9-6 yrs old. Our experienced and diverse team of teachers model enthusiasm for learning and discovery coupled with respect for the uniqueness of each individual. Emphasis is placed on fostering social connections between children, families, the community and the natural world as we lay the foundation for children to become citizens of the future. The Acton Barn is run by a board of directors comprised of parent members and is a 501-C-3.
Philosophy
"Learning through play with hands on experiences"
We believe that children thrive in an environment which values their own uniqueness, while providing support and opportunities to grow emotionally, socially and creatively. By building on each child’s strengths, interests and curiosities, we guide each child to explore the world around them as well as develop new abilities, and form close relationships.
The Barn does not discriminate against any child or family on the basis of race, religion, cultural heritage, political beliefs, marital status, disability, national origin, immigration status, family structure, gender identity, or sexual orientation.
Educational Inspirations
Our emergent, play-based curriculum is thoughtfully designed by our talented team of teachers, drawing inspiration from the Reggio Emilia approach, NAEYC’s Developmentally Appropriate Practices, and the work of educators like Jeanine Fitzgerald, Maria Montessori, Howard Gardner, and Fred Rogers.
Our indoor and outdoor classrooms are organized into inviting exploration centers, guided by the Early Childhood Environment Rating System (ECERS-R), where children make self-directed choices and learn through hands-on discovery.
We align our curriculum with the Massachusetts Department of Education’s Guidelines and Standards, supporting each child’s growth across all areas of learning—language and literacy, math, science, social studies, the arts, health, and social-emotional development.
To ensure every child’s progress is nurtured and understood, we use the Work Sampling System for assessment and hold parent–teacher conferences twice a year, or anytime by request.
Our History
The Acton Barn has been a fixture of the Acton community since 1972 and serves many surrounding towns, including Boxborough, Littleton, Maynard and Westford.
In 1992 our Barn Family decided to work with the architectural firm of Katherine McGuiness and the developer, Kirk Ware. Their goal was to build a warm inviting educational environment for young children. This was accomplished by providing many special features within our space including a floor to cathedral ceiling indoor wooden climber with soft curves and spaces for cooperative play. Our open floor plan incorporates a variety of centers and a broad spectrum of materials and supplies that foster the growth and development of young children.
Our fenced in outdoor play space is carefully designed with a variety of educational centers, including an enclosed sandbox, playhouse, and in ground slide.
Ready to schedule a visit?
32 Nagog Park, Acton, MA 01720, USA
