KNS is a state-licensed preschool affiliated with the Kensington Congregational Church. We have been serving Berlin, Connecticut and surrounding communities since 1972.

Our Philosophy · Our Head Teachers

What is a "Cooperative"? · A Day at KNS

Our Philosophy

Kensington Nursery School's program focuses on hands-on learning in a positive, child-centered environment. Our teachers ensure that all classroom activities are flexible enough to meet each child's needs, while providing a wide variety of learning experiences that help children develop socially, emotionally, and physically as well as cognitively.

Our Head Teachers

Carole Capodiece - 3 day classes

"I have taught at KNS for fifteen years, working with both the 2 day and 3 day classes. I have an Associate's degree in Early Childhood Education from Endicott College. I was also a parent volunteer for four years while my two children attended KNS. I firmly believe in a 'hands on' learning environment in which each child can grow, explore and move at their own pace. My goals are for each child to love coming to school and to develop not only cognitively, but socially, emotionally and physically."

Moira Daigle - 2 day classes

"I have been teaching the 2 day classes (three year olds) for three years at KNS. My two children attended KNS and I spent four years as a parent volunteer. My educational background includes a Bachelor of Fine Art from Albertus Magnus College, a Masters in Business Administration from the University of Connecticut, and a Masters of Science in Elementary Education from the University of New Haven. In the classroom, I strive to make each day stimulating, exciting and fun. Preschool is a child's first experience with a formal classroom, and my goal is for each child to start out their educational career loving school. As we explore each day, the growth seen in each child is astounding, and I am a privileged witness and steward!"

What is a "Cooperative"?

One of KNS's outstanding features is its emphasis on parental involvement. As a cooperative nursery school, KNS provides the opportunity for parents and parent-substitutes to be involved in their children's first educational experiences. KNS families:

• Bring their children into the classroom each day, and return to the classroom for pick-up.
• Work in the classroom alongside the teachers approximately once per month. During this time you may assist with arts and crafts, oversee playtime activities, set up snacks, help with hand-washing and other self-care tasks, provide help with cleanup, and much more. You will actively participate alongside the children in all aspects of their school day.
• Supply snacks or drinks for the class on your "work day." (For 3-day classes, children bring their own snack.)
  
• Hold a school "job" or serve on the Executive Board. Jobs can be creative (designing monthly bulletin boards, creating scrapbooks), practical (cleaning, maintaining toys and equipment, restocking supplies, building and grounds upkeep), and everywhere in between (events planning, fundraising, publicity, librarian, book club coordinator, etc.).
• Participate in the school's annual "Kiddie Karnival" by working at the event and providing various materials.

A Day at KNS

During their 2 1/2 hours at KNS, we strive for each child to experience:

• social interaction with adults and children of his/her own age group
• cognitive development
• music and creative movement
• arts and crafts, which help develop fine motor skills
• gross motor development activities such as outdoor play
• a warm, positive environment fostering positive self-esteem.

In short, a typical day at KNS provides opportunities for cognitive, social, emotional and physical development. It is challenging yet enjoyable for each individual child. And it always includes lots of smiles!

Want to know more? Download this:  A Day at KNS (in PDF)