Friday, January 11, 2008

Where learning through purposeful play is a family affair

Cooperative Preschools. I'm a huge fan. This is the kind of preschool where the parents rotate being the assistant teacher to the lead teacher right in the child's classroom. It's an absolutely wonderful way to enjoy and benefit from your child's first school experiences.

Here are some of the benefits, courtesy of the Virginia Cooperative Preschool Council:

What Are the Benefits for Children?
School is special when a parent is there to share it
Children develop a positive attitude toward school
Children see the value their parents place on education
School is more easily extended beyond the classroom, leading to a lifelong habit of learning
Children develop an increased sense of pride and self-esteem when they are the helper and get to show off their parent
Children enjoy friendly adults who accept each child in a safe and nurturing environment

What Are the Benefits for Parents?
Participation in all aspects of your child's education
Education in child development and parenting skills are found in the classroom, at parent meetings, and throughout the school
A support network of friends with the same interests and concerns
A chance to observe how your child manages his or her first years of school
A chance to discover new and hidden talents and contribute your abilities
A voice in school decisions and policy making
Ease of communication with teachers
A chance to learn to effectively advocate on behalf of children

I had both of my children in Cooperative preschools, quite different ones in different states, and I strongly recommend the experience to you and your child. There are MANY co-ops in the neighborhood. Check out this link to find them: http://www.geocities.com/vcpc1/

A lot of their open houses are coming up in the next few weeks. Enjoy!

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