Founded in 1951, the Menlo Atherton Cooperative Nursery School is a parent-owned and administered school that depends on parent participation for committee and fund-raising work. Focusing on child-based education, Menlo Atherton believes that "if a child has the opportunity to develop confidence in himself, he will be able to think for himself, make his own decisions, and work out solutions to his own problems." Children must be 21 months to 6 years old to attend. Strong emphasis is placed on creating a sense of self confidence and respect for others in each student at this nursery.