Our Programs

At Amherst Nursery School, we believe in the power of play and exploration. Our programs are thoughtfully designed to support each stage of early childhood development, blending nurturing guidance with hands-on learning. From toddlers to pre-kindergarteners, our classrooms spark curiosity, creativity, and confidence in a warm, inclusive environment.

TWO Year Old Program

For children who turn 2 before Oct. 1, 2025

T/Th or W/F

9:15 - 11:45 AM

A gentle introduction to school with plenty of play, socialization, and nurturing support.

THREE Year Old Program

For children who turn 3 before Dec. 1, 2025

M/W/F or T/Th

9:15 - 11:45 AM

Hands-on activities, early literacy, and social learning foster independence and imagination

FOUR Year Old Program

For children who turn 4 before Dec. 1, 2025

T - F

9:15 - 11:45 AM

Pre-kindergarten readiness through enriched curriculum, early academics, and field trips.

UPK Program

Available through Amherst Central School District.

For district residents turning 4 before Dec 1, 2025

Half-day class with field trips and pre-k prep.

Registration through the school district.

Tuition for 2025-2026

2's

T/TH or W/F

$2,025 Yearly

$225 Monthly

3's

T/TH

$1,935 Yearly

$215 Monthly

3's

M/W/F

$2,772 Yearly

$308 Monthly

4's

T - F

$3,780 Yearly

$420 Monthly

Optional Enrichment Programs

These exciting add-ons help expand your child's experiences beyond the classroom

Spanish for Preschoolers - 3s and 4s (Wednesdays)

WNY Soccer Skills - 3s and 4s (Tuesdays/Fridays)

Creative Movement - 3s and 4s (Mondays)

Yoga - 3s and 4s (Thursdays)

Please contact the office for more information on our enrichment programs.

Music Class

Our 2-, 3-, and 4-year-old classes enjoy a 25-minute weekly music class with Miss Jasmine. In a playful and caring environment, children explore music through songs, movement, and rhythm. They sing, dance, play instruments, and use scarves and props to express themselves and discover the joy of making music.

At this age, music helps children build confidence, develop listening skills, spark creativity, and feel the beat within! They Explore:

Singing simple songs and rhymes
Moving to music with scarves and instruments
Exploring sounds and rhythms
Playing shakers, drums, and bells
Listening, taking turns, and expressing feelings through music

First Friends

A special first step into the world of school — for children 18–30 months and a parent or caregiver. First Friends offers a joyful, supportive introduction to early learning in a safe and nurturing setting. With a parent or caregiver by their side, toddlers explore the classroom through:

Engaging preschool themes
Music, movement, and sensory play
Creative art and interactive stories
Opportunities to build early social and classroom skills

Classes meet Monday mornings for one hour. Session 1 runs from 9:15–10:15 AM. A second session (10:45–11:45 AM) may be added based on interest.

This shared experience helps children build confidence and comfort in a classroom setting — and gives families a meaningful connection to our school community. And our First Friends families receive priority registration for the upcoming school year.

Ready to join us? Download the registration form below to get started.

Registration Form

Our Curriculum

ANS uses a play-based, child-centered approach grounded in the NYS Early Learning Guidelines and Common Core Foundations. Our curriculum nurtures:

Language and literacy through stories, songs, and writing
Cognitive growth via hands-on math, science, and problem-solving
Social/emotional skills through play, group activities, and co-op experiences
Fine and gross motor development in art, manipulatives, and physical play
Self-help abilities that build confidence and independence

We support development through both structured and free play including circle time, arts, learning centers, snack, and active play.

Learning Centers in the Classroom

Each classroom includes rich, rotating learning centers designed for exploration and growth:

Art Center: express creativity, develop fine motor skills, and explore shapes and colors
Block Center: learn about balance, patterns, cooperation, and problem solving
Dramatic Play: imagine new roles, use language, and build social confidence
Math & Manipulatives: develop logic, sorting, number sense, and coordination
Science & Sensory: explore texture, nature, and discovery with hands-on materials
Library Center: foster a love of books, stories, and early literacy
Writing Center: practice name writing, drawing, and using writing tools

A Glimpse at the Day

Here is a sample of what a typical day might look like at ANS:

Arrival & free play
Circle Time (songs, stories, group learning)
Learning Centers & Small Groups
Snack Time
Music & Movement
Outdoor or Indoor Playroom Time
Closing Circle
Dismissal

Registration

The majority of our 25-26 classes are full, with just a few openings in our 3-year-old and First Friends programs. Please use the link below to learn how to register your child.

Please reach out with any questions you may have by calling us at (716) 839-0298 or emailing us at info@amherstnurseryschool.org