Helen K. Baldwin Nursery School

Planting Seeds of Faith, Learning, and Friendship Since 1956

For nearly 70 years, the Helen K. Baldwin Nursery School has been a cherished part of the Christian Education ministry at First Presbyterian Church of Cranford. Established in 1956 as a mission of the church, the school was founded on the belief that young children thrive when nurtured in an atmosphere of love, learning, and faith.

Designed for children ages 2½ to 4, this warm and welcoming preschool offers both educational and social experiences grounded in Christian values. Our classrooms are places where curiosity is encouraged, friendships are formed, and little hearts are gently introduced to the wonder of God’s world.

Families can choose from flexible, tuition-based class schedules to fit their needs:

🧸 2½-year-olds: 2 or 3 mornings per week

🛝3-year-olds: 3 or 4 mornings per week

📚4-year-olds: 4 or 5 days per week, morning or afternoon options

More information about the preschool programs and registration can be found HERE.

Church members receive priority registration.

Faith Forward: Nurturing Hearts, Inspiring Wonder

At First Presbyterian Church of Cranford, children are a vital part of who we are. Through ministries like the Helen K. Baldwin Nursery School and PrimeTime School Age Child Care, our church has long embraced the sacred calling of helping families raise curious, compassionate, and confident children.

The image of parents gathered in the pews, recording their little ones with proud smiles and full hearts, reflects something beautiful: a community that cherishes its children and believes in their light. That’s what “Faith Forward” means to us in 2025 — investing in the next generation, not just with programs and playtime, but with love, grace, and unwavering support.

PrimeTime school age childcare

Supporting Families, Creating Fun and Making Friends — Before, After & All Summer Long

Since 1990, PrimeTime has been a trusted mission of First Presbyterian Church of Cranford, designed to support working families with dependable, caring childcare. What began as a small church-based program has grown into Cranford’s premiere school-age childcare provider — and a beloved part of daily life for many local families.

Serving children in Kindergarten through 6th grade in the Cranford Public School System, PrimeTime offers:

🌄 Before-school care at each Cranford Township public elementary school

🎒 After-school care based at First Presbyterian Church

📗 Kindergarten wraparound programs

🛝 And a super fun summer camp that runs in four two-week sessions — led by the same familiar, trusted staff from the school year

PrimeTime is licensed by the NJ Department of Children and Families. You can find more information HERE.