Alumni reviews:

"We have sent all three of our kids to the Red Balloon and truly value the experience that all of us have had with the school. The teachers are talented and nurturing and our kids have been well-prepared for elementary school. Many of the closest friendships that my husband and I and our kids have formed over the years started at the Red Balloon."

Allison & Jonathan Beakley 2009



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Providing an exceptional and positive school experience for children 3-5 years of age since 1971.


The Cooperative Experience

The cooperative nature of our program gives parents a unique and enriching opportunity to have an active role in their child's first school experience. Parents can teach their child by example the importance of being a contributing member of the school and school community. The cooperative experience allows parents to come into the classroom to observe their child's progress. Parents meet other families and make new friends along with their children.

The 3 -year class schedule:

  • 9:00 am-12:00 pm Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday
  • (with an option for a fourth morning based on interest).
  • All children must be three by September 1st.


The 4-year class schedule:

  • 9:00am-12:00pm Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday.
  • All children must be four by September 1st.

* Lunch Bunch is offered in both classes from 12:00pm-1:00pm on Mondays and Wednesdays.
* Option for Extended enrichment until 3:00 on Wednesdays.





Enrichment beyond our curriculum

  • We have a music and movement class once a week in each class.


We have several guests visit the red balloon for example:

  • Michelle's Menagerie with her Rain Forest animals.
  • Dental hygienists from Concord.
  • Carlisle firefighters.
  • We encourage Family members of the school who have an activity or career specialty they would like to share with the children to do so.


We visit local hot spots in town for example:

  • The Conant Land in Carlisle.
  • The Carlisle Post Office.
  • The Carlisle Library.