Since its founding in 1949 by a group of Princeton families, University League Nursery School (ULNS) has remained committed to its original ideal: to provide preschool children with physical and emotional environment in which they can enjoy happy, safe, and zestful experiences that nurture their self-confidence and independence. We began as a traditional morning cooperative nursery school, and as family needs have changed, we have added program options to help accommodate working parents.

Princeton University supports ULNS by providing space, maintenance services, and substantial scholarship support for children of University employees and staff when needed.

In the cooperative morning nursery school, the adult-to-child ratio is 1 to 6 or better (1 to 3 in the 2 1/2-year-old class); it is 1 to 7 in the non-cooperative lunch and afternoon programs. Depending upon age, all classes have 18 or fewer students (the 2 1/2-year-old class has 12). The morning cooperative program accommodates all of our 112 children, and the afternoon program can accommodate up to 28 children.

We are licensed by the State of New Jersey as a Child Care Center for children over age 2 1/2. ULNS is accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).

The University League Nursery School welcomes people of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, priviledges, programs, and activities available at the school. It does not discriminate in administration of its educational, admissions or employment policies, scholarship aid, or other school-administered programs.

Staff

The quality of our staff is as important to the success and richness of ULNS as the commitment of our families. Our teachers are well-trained, experienced and enthusiastic; their warmth and creativity are the best expressions of the school’s educational philosophy. Many of our teachers originally became involved as parents, and most have been with the school for many years. All belong to the New Jersey Association for the Education of Young Children and participate in workshops and various other activities designed to promote their professional growth. With the Director, teachers plan an educational program that is constructive as well as enjoyable.

Facilities

ULNS has six classrooms and an office/storage area which houses a small library of child-related books for parents to borrow. We also have two spacious playgrounds: one for younger and one for older children. They are equipped with sandboxes, swings, slides, climbing structures, and playhouses. For safety, swings and climbing structures are located on soft ground cover.

Location

We are conveniently located on the Princeton University campus:

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Recommendations

“ULNS provided both our children and our family with a heartwarming sense of community.”

—Donna Usiskin

“Full of enthusiasm, energy, curiosity and ideas, the diverse families and dedicated faculty at ULNS make a great team. My daughter has thrived in this community. Being a helping parent has shown me how children’s play is a vital link in the development of the cognitive and social skills that are prerequisites for learning more complex concepts.”

—Elizabeth White

“University League is an experience like none other. Not only is your child received with open arms but the entire family as well. Before you know it you are welcomed into this community of people that seek the same loving and accepting environment for their children.”

—Patty Moreno