Welcome to Nativity of Our Lord Early Learning Center: Where Christ Is Born and Grows
Growing in Faith, Learning Through Play, and Building Friendships That Last!
Welcome to Our NELC Family!
At Nativity Early Learning Center (NELC), we believe every child is a unique gift from God, full of potential and ready to discover the world around them. For over 34 years, we have proudly partnered with families to provide a safe, loving, and faith-filled environment where children feel valued, supported, and inspired to learn.
We understand that the early years are some of the most important in a child's development. That's why our dedicated teachers focus on nurturing the whole child — socially, emotionally, academically, physically, and spiritually.
Through hands-on learning, purposeful play, and meaningful relationships, we help children build confidence, develop independence, form friendships, and discover a lifelong love of learning.
Our Programs
NELC proudly offers:
Full-Day Preschool: A nurturing and engaging learning experience for children beginning at 33 months of age, designed to encourage curiosity, creativity, independence, and kindergarten readiness.
Afterschool Program: A safe, welcoming, and fun environment for Nativity School students in kindergarten through fifth grade to build friendships, explore interests, and enjoy enriching activities beyond the school day.
Summer Camp: An exciting summer experience filled with themed activities, hands-on projects, creative adventures, and memorable field trips.
Whether your child is just beginning their educational journey or continuing to grow through their school-age years, NELC provides a place where they can learn, explore, and belong.
Conveniently Located in the Heart of the Nativity Community
NELC is located on the Nativity parish campus in the lower level of the Lannan Center at 1900 Wellesley Avenue, directly across from Nativity School in St. Paul, Minnesota.
Our convenient location makes it easier for families with both preschool and school-age children while strengthening the connection between our early learning programs, Nativity School, and the greater parish community.
We are proud to support families with high-quality care, engaging educational experiences, and a strong foundation rooted in faith, kindness, and community.
A Special Welcome from Our Director
Dear Parents and Guardians,
Welcome to Nativity Early Learning Center!
Choosing an early learning program for your child is an important decision, and we are truly honored that you are considering becoming part of our NELC family.
At NELC, we believe childhood should be filled with laughter, discovery, friendship, and opportunities to grow. Our goal is to create an environment where every child feels safe, loved, and excited to come through our doors each day. Our dedicated teachers understand that no two children are alike. We celebrate their unique personalities, encourage their natural curiosity, and provide opportunities to develop independence, confidence, kindness, and respect for others. We want every child to feel a sense of belonging while building the skills and relationships that will help them succeed both inside and outside the classroom.
One of the things I value most about NELC is our wonderful sense of community. As part of Nativity of Our Lord Catholic Church and School, we are blessed to share an environment where faith, family, and education come together. We strive to help children grow not only in knowledge but also in compassion, gratitude, and love for one another. I strongly believe that the best early childhood experiences happen when families and teachers work together. We value open communication, meaningful relationships, and the opportunity to partner with you as your child learns and grows. Whether you are exploring preschool for the first time or looking for a welcoming afterschool program, I invite you to discover what makes NELC such a special place.
We look forward to welcoming you and your child into our NELC family!
Warmly, Nicole Clausen Director, Nativity Early Learning Center