What is a co-op?

What is a co-op?

A parent participation preschool is a truly special experience for both parent and child. Traditionally, this means families volunteer directly in the classroom during the school day, a commitment that allows you to be a primary part of your child’s early education. However, we know that many families align deeply with our values but simply cannot commit to being on-site during the workday. To welcome everyone into our community, we have added a non-co-op option. Whether you are working alongside us in the classroom or joining us as a non-co-op family, you’ll receive the same training and support that help create lasting friendships and a better school for our children.

When you join The Children’s Cottage Co-op (CCC), you become an owner of a small non-profit. This gives each family considerable influence within the school, which is a truly special experience, as well a responsibility not to be taken lightly.

Perks of a co-op

• Observe your child’s unique attributes and his/her interactions in a group.  

• Learn age-appropriate activities that can extend beyond the school and into your home. 

• Learn the basics of early childhood development theory.

• Become part of a community of passionate parents. 

• Participate in fundraisers and social events with like-minded families. 

• Learn new skills, or put your current talents to use, with family specific job assignments. 

Training parents is of the utmost importance. The Cottage has rotating parents every day, in addition to our two full time teachers, so it is important that each parent has a consistent approach that reflects the philosophy and goals of the school. By providing a safe, secure, and loving environment, children can try new things and meet new friends, practice making choices and taking chances, and learn to respect themselves and others. This self-esteem and respect for others is the basis for all future learning.