The Rocking Unicorn Nursery School, West Chatham, MA

CELEBRATING OUR 44th ANNIVERSARY!

 

The Rocking Unicorn Nursery School was established in 1981. It is owned/operated by Gretchen Kolb Cauble, M.S. Ed. Gretchen is a 1984 graduate of Chatham High School, a 1988 graduate of Colby-Sawyer College, and received her Master’s Degree in Education from Wheelock College in 1993.

The facility is licensed by the MA Dept. of Early Education and Care. All teachers and administrators meet and exceed the state requirements for certification.

Enrollment is open to 20 children per day, ranging in age of 2 years 9 months through pre-kindergarten. The three year old program has a 1:5 teacher to child ratio; the pre-kindergarten program has a 1:7 ratio.

Now enrolling 3, 4, & 5 year olds. Full and part time slots are available. Call Gretchen @ (508) 945-0611 to request a brochure and arrange for a visit.

"Whether you are big or small, you can make a difference." - Bo - 05/16/18

“Whether you are big or small, you can make a difference.”
– Bo – 05/16/18

 

Our curriculum is rich in language experiences. Block building, dramatic play, exploring art through a variety of mediums, cooking and gardening are all essential ingredients in our program. We offer an appropriate balance of teacher directed and child directed activities, small and large group instruction as well as consistent expectations for behavior.

 

Our School Rocks

Curriculum Design

We utilize a thematic approach to teaching. Monthly curriculum calendars and newsletters are sent home to families to encourage a home/school connection.

The MA Curriculum Frameworks/Early Learning Standards are woven into our plans, insuring that the following are addressed:

• Social/Emotional Development
• Self-Help Skills
• Language Arts
• S.T.E.M
• Fine/Gross Motor Development

The school year runs for ten months; September-June.

Program Highlights

Playground

Large, fenced-in playground with swings, climber/slide, mud kitchen, sandbox and clubhouse

The Rocking Unicorn Nursery School, West Chatham, MA

A working school garden with herbs, vegetables and flowers to encourage children to utilize their 5 senses through the 4 seasons.

The Rocking Unicorn Nursery School, West Chatham, MA

Teacher/Child Ratio:
1:5 (3 year olds)
1:7 (pre-k)

Testimonials

Jen B.

“My son and daughter attended Rocking Unicorn and I could not be happier with their pre-school experience. Gretchen and her staff are truly amazing people who have a sincere interest in your child’s education, safety and social development. Walking into the school everyday is like walking into a good friends home where you feel welcome, safe and comfortable.

I left there each morning knowing my children were in good hands and picked them up every day seeing a smile on their face. The curriculum is wonderful as well. It is organized, age appropriate and FUN! I have no doubts that my children were better prepared for Kindergarten because of “The Rock” and it’s teaching staff. I am looking forward to our third child attending. She is only 5 months old but she will be attending Rocking Unicorn.”

Kim B., Harwich

“Both my daughters have gone to The Rocking Unicorn Nursery School and I can’t say enough of what they learned and will carry for a lifetime. In a nutshell Gretchen and her staff are…”Professional, Friendly, Knowledgeable, Capable, Trustworthy and AWESOME!”

Sheri and Carl J., Brewster

“For 5 years, we were blessed to be a part of the Rocking Unicorn Family. Our 2 boys have now moved on from their days with Gretchen, Pattie, Jean & Kathy, but they have taken with them the most amazing foundation of empathy, honesty and respect. When we were first looking at nursery schools for our older son, we went to several local facilities. However, the moment we met Gretchen and visited at The Rock, we knew we found the best choice for our boys. We always brought our boys in with confidence in their care and safety – and perhaps even more importantly – their joy.

I can’t ever remember a time when either boy grumbled about a school day. They were always so happy when they woke up and realized it was a Rocking Unicorn day! Not only did they get the best building blocks for their future academic lives, but they made bonds of friendships – as encouraged and nurtured by the outstanding staff – that I know will last a lifetime. Our years with The Rocking Unicorn may be behind us, but we will all carry our time there in our hearts for always. Thank you for helping us raise 2 amazing little men.”

Nancy S.

“Both of my children attended the Rocking Unicorn, and they had an amazing time there. They thrived on the program which encouraged learning through socialization and play. The teachers are incredibly caring, developing relationships with each student individually. Each teacher takes an interest in what is happening at home (not in a bad way!), and will assist with any situation that might arise to make the children’s lives flow more smoothly between home and school.

The option for extended day as needed is a great addition. Both of my children took advantage of this during their years there, most specifically during their last year to help prepare them for kindergarten.

I firmly believe both of my children transitioned easily into kindergarten do in part to the nurturing environment of the Rocking Unicorn.”

Stephanie G., South Chatham

“It is difficult to put into words the experience my children have had at The Rocking Unicorn Nursery School. It goes beyond academics and learning to share. My kids formed a deep connection with their teachers and peers through the nurturing environment at The Rocking Unicorn. Not only was the school great for my children, the staff was a great support to our family as we were new to the area- they helped welcome us to the community and form connections with others. We will all remember our time there with much fondness.”

Dorria, Chris and Zoe

“All of her experiences at Rocking Unicorn were so much appreciated. We are reminded again, at how grateful we are for all of the strong building blocks that we set with her teachers and friends and family at RU. I know we will all blink and in a moment they will be walking with caps and gowns. But for now, I am celebrating our “Rocking Unicorn” family and the love that we shared there and continue to share in our journey ahead!

Have a Great Summer – hope to see you on the beach!”

Shannon and Charlie H.

“We invested much time and energy in our search for the perfect pre-school experience for our daughter. What sold us on the Rocking Unicorn was the genuine LOVE we observed during our visit between the teachers and students. Gretchen and her staff strike the perfect balance between education, creativity, and caring. We found the Rocking Unicorn to be both a school and a home away from home for our little one. We highly recommend it.”

The Rocking Unicorn Nursery School, West Chatham, MA

The Rocking Unicorn
Nursery School

1762 Main Street
P.O. Box 1509
West Chatham, MA 02669
(508) 945-0611