In 1931, Wheaton College opened one of the first laboratory nursery schools in America under the suggestions of Elisabeth Amen. Amen had been a member of Wheaton's Psychology and Education department since 1925 and she quoted, "It seemed pointless to be teaching child psychology without any children".Thus, she traveled to Britain to research lab school practices there. Her findings were then implemented in the construction of Wheaton's own Nursery School at the former site of Homes Cottage. The Nursery School offers afternoon and morning programs to children up to five years old. At the heart of the Nursery School's teaching program is the idea that children learn through play and communication and the school strives to foster the ideal environment for this. Tuition began at $1.00 in 1931 and financial aid has always been available to those who need it. Furthermore, the Nursery school serves as a laboratory for Wheaton College students studying within the field of child psychology and education in accordance to Mrs. Amen's suggestion from more than eighty years ago. In 1966, the Nursery School was rebuilt and dedicated as Elisabeth Amen Nursery School. The old building was used as the History department offices and then as an alumnae house and finally for housing students and language associates. Today the nursery school still maintains its original goals and remains a valuable resource to the Norton and Wheaton College community.