Moving to Wellesley, MA With Young Children? A Local Guide to Daycare & Preschools for Relocating Families (Part 3)
This guide is designed specifically for families moving to Wellesley who want a clear, insider overview of daycares, preschools, and Montessori options—before they even arrive.
Preschools in Wellesley (2 Years 9 Months+)
Preschools in Wellesley focus heavily on social-emotional learning, independence, and kindergarten readiness.
Wellesley Nursery School (WNS) – The Hills
A long-established and much-loved preschool with:
Traditional preschool structure
2:30 PM pickup option
A newly introduced 2s program, similar to popular NYC early preschool models (more info here!)
Often a great fit for families who value a classic, community-based preschool experience.
Learn more on the Wellesley Nursery School in the Hills website.
Montessori Children’s House of Wellesley
A warm, well-regarded Montessori preschool option for ages 2.9+; known for its thoughtful teachers, calm classrooms, and gentle transition into school for young children.
8:45 AM – 11:45 AM school day
Optional Lunch Bunch Tuesday–Thursday until 1 PM
Calm, structured Montessori environment
Strong focus on independence, confidence, and practical life skills
Especially popular with families seeking a gentle, supportive introduction to school without full-day pressure
Learn more on the Montessori Children’s House of Wellesley website.
Wellesley Hills Center for Early Education (WHCEE)
A nurturing, community-centered preschool located at the Unitarian Universalist Church in Wellesley Hills.
Ages 2.9 through 6 years
Year-round care with flexible options (morning, extended day, full day)
Hours typically 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Play-based curriculum fostering social, emotional, and cognitive development
Strong Pre-K program focused on kindergarten preparation
Very popular, with high demand and waitlists
Learn more on the Wellesley Hills Center for Early Education website.
Montessori Day School of Wellesley Hills (MDS)
A highly respected Montessori preschool emphasizing independence, curiosity, and nature-based learning.
Serves children ~33 months to 6 years
Authentic Montessori curriculum
3-day and 5-day program options + Extended Day + Lunch Bunch
Outdoor classroom and nature-rich play spaces
Strong parent-school partnership
Families praise MDS for its calm, nature-oriented environment, thoughtful curriculum, and supportive parent-school partnership.
Learn more on the Montessori Day School of Wellesley Hills website.
What Relocating Families Should Know Before They Move
Here’s what many out-of-town buyers are surprised to learn:
✅ Waitlists are common—especially for infants and toddlers
✅ Some programs follow academic-year admissions
✅ Others allow rolling enrollment
✅ Schedules fill faster than programs themselves
✅ Many families plan childcare before finalizing their home purchase
This is why coordinating neighborhood selection with childcare logistics is such a powerful relocation strategy.
How Childcare Affects Your Wellesley Home Search
Smart relocating families often choose their home based on:
Proximity to a specific daycare or preschool
Access to commuter rail stations after drop-off
Walkability to village centers like Wellesley Square, Linden Square, and Lower Falls
Future elementary school districts
This is where local real estate guidance becomes invaluable—especially for families moving from out of state.
Check out our previous posts in the series here!
