History of Bing Nursery School

More than 50 years after Bing Nursery School opened its doors, hundreds of studies have taken place at Bing that have made the research and reputation of the school known world-wide. 

Bing Nursery School opened its doors in 1966, and was constructed as a laboratory school with a grant from the National Science Foundation and a gift from Dr. Peter S. Bing and his mother, Mrs. Anna Bing Arnold. Once described as “a national treasure” by Professor Emerita of Psychology Eleanor E. Maccoby, Bing’s mission was to provide a laboratory setting for research where faculty members and graduate students can conduct research in child development, to provide a sound educational environment for young children, and to teach undergraduate and graduate students about young children through observation and experience in the classroom. Bing has since established a fourth mission: to partner with both parents and educators in helping to improve the lives of young children and their families through the Kordestani Family Programs for Parents and Educators.
 
Since 1949, the Department of Psychology had maintained a laboratory nursery school at the Stanford Village housing complex (where SRI International is currently located). In the early 1960's the department added the Escondido Village Nursery School in a cottage across the street from Bing’s current location.

Listen to founding director, Professor Edith Dowley, reflect on the the founding of the school.

Bing Nursery School celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2016. We invite you to learn more about the events that marked this historic occasion.