The joy of learning through play in a nurturing environment. 

Nicholson Early Childhood Education Center is a half-day preschool program nurturing and teaching young children from 18 months to 5 years of age. We welcome you to visit our preschool as our special guest.

The Nicholson Experience

A Caring Community

Maintaining low teacher-to-child ratios is just one of the ways we cultivate a caring community. At Nicholson, everybody knows everybody — from the students, to the teachers to the parents! Learn more..

Emergent, Play-Based Curriculum

Children learn best when engaged in hands-on activities and real experiences. Our emergent curriculum provides an optimal environment for early learning moments to occur naturally and in abundance. Learn more..

Research Based

Every aspect of our program is grounded in the early childhood literature and based on the most robust child development research. Learn more..

Nationally Accredited

Nicholson Early Childhood Education Center is proud to be nationally recognized as an accredited early care and education program.

Meet Our Director

Dr. Shelley Nicholson’s background includes over 30 years of experience in the field as an early childhood teacher, center director, teacher educator, professor of early development at the university level and presenter at local and national early childhood conferences. She holds a Ph.D. in Curriculum & Instruction, specializing in Early Childhood Education, from the University of Texas at Austin. Learn more..

From Our Parents

  • “We love Nicholson! Every one on the staff is so caring and wonderful with the children. Our child has made amazing strides in development since he was enrolled.” Learn more..Read full..

    P L.
    2/26/2015
  • “My daughter is in the youngest class, the owls, and she absolutely loves her teacher. I highly recommend this school.” Learn more..Read full..

    Caitlin H.
    12/2014
  • “My daughter has been going to Nicholson since she was 22 months. She has now turned 3 and loves going to school. I know parents that drive quite a bit just because this is a gem of a school!” Learn more..Read full..

    Falguni P.
    11/26/2014
  • “I went in for an impromptu visit unannounced and was immediately greeted by Dr. Nicholson. My daughter sat right down with the kids and started painting. That’s when I knew.” Learn more..Read full..

    Natalia B.
    9/22/2014
  • “My son is attending Nicholson and he absolutely loves it! I love the small classes and the structure of their days. I would recommend Nicholson 100 times over!” Learn more..Read full..

    Lenae H.
    4/26/2014
  • “Nicholson ECEC is an amazing preschool. Dr. Shelley Nicholson has created the perfect balance of love & support, and challenge & instruction.” Learn more..Read full..

    Christine N.
    6/27/2013

Nicholson News Center

Now Enrolling

We have open spaces available now or you can preregister your child for Summer and Fall 2026!  Contact us to schedule a tour!