What is co-op?

Welcome!  We're so happy you are here!
Co-operative (co-op) parent-child programs combine parent/caregiver support with quality, developmentally appropriate learning experiences for children.  Adults participate in the daily activities, which keeps costs lower than other programs but also gives adults a unique window into their child's learning and development.


Benefits of Co-op
Caregivers and parents benefit from time spent with other children and adults.  They also contribute to the group by sharing their own experiences and expertise with others.  Parents/caregivers have the opportunity to be directly involved in their child's education and to work along side other similarly active, dedicated adults.

Children benefit from having relationships with other children, connections with respectful adults, and an attuned, trained teacher.  Equipment and materials are appropriately sized for children and learning activities are geared toward their own interests and stages of development.

Curriculum Framework
Infants and toddlers need the context of a supportive, loving relationship in order to thrive.  Attachment to a responsive, caring adult becomes the foundation for all future learning and relationships.  Therefore, nurturing relationships is at the heart of the infant/toddler curriculum.  Participation of the parent/caregiver is so important because s/he is the child's first and most important teacher.  We utilize interactions, conversations, the play environment, and caregiving routines to learn and discover new things together.


The play environment offers flexible learning opportunities, which include free exploration, story time, music, arts and crafts, and time exploring and playing outdoors.  Because this is a group setting, and children master skills at different rates, we strive to have a range of activities that will appeal to children at many ages, stages, and interests.


We develop classroom experiences and learning contexts by carefully observing the children, documenting the ways in which they approach and express learning, reflecting on what was observed, and planning for each child's next steps.  Parents and caregivers are included in the curriculum planning process.  Training is provided to parents on their first day of class and during the course of the semester.


How Do Parents and Caregivers Participate?
We rotate classroom responsibilities among the adults. Parents might be responsible for bringing the class snack, preparing an art experience for the children, or observing children as they play and learn with fine motor materials.


Our program is not a drop-off program, as we believe in the power of children and families learning together.  Some exceptions may be made in the case of a parent who has just had a baby, for example, and will be addressed on a case-by-case basis.





If you have additional questions, feel free to contact us at richlandelc@gmail.com

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