Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Co-Op Preschool?

A Cooperative or "Co-Op" Preschool is a parent participation preschool. It is a non-profit, nonsectarian, democratic organization where each family shares in the planning and operation of the school. Parents participate in the program on a rotating basis, serving as assistants to professional early childhood development teachers and staff. The efforts of parents and their direct involvement during the school day make a parent participation school a unique educational endeavor. [answer taken from the "frequently asked questions" section of the the CCPPNS (the California Council of Parent Participation Nursery Schools) website which can be found at: http://www.ccppns.org]

How do parent participation nursery schools benefit the child, the parents and the community?

The child gains the ability to relate to and communicate with other children, as well as adults. The child experiences a variety of play equipment, expressive materials, and media, resulting in a positive attitude towards learning. The child also gains self-esteem.


The parents gain an opportunity to learn and develop with their child as well as an increased awareness of the role of education in developing an effective and satisfying family life.


The community gains children who are learning respect for others, and families with a sense of community responsibility.


[answer taken from the "frequently asked questions" section of the the CCPPNS (the California Council of Parent Participation Nursery Schools) website which can be found at: http://www.ccppns.org]

What is California Council of Parent Participation Nursery Schools?

California Council, or CCPPNS, is a community of parents and educators committed to teaching and inspiring families through parent involvement and mutual support.


We are the largest group of parent participation nursery schools in the world. Our statewide organization consists of around 10,000 member families. Since 1948, we have served parents who want to share in their child's first school experience.


CCPPNS promotes desirable standards for programs, practices, and conditions in parent participation nursery schools, and encourages continuing education for parents, teachers, staff, and directors.


CCPPNS facilitates the exchange of information and ideas among member schools. We cooperate with adult education, family living, and early childhood organizations that are interested in effective service relationships with the parents of young children.


The existence of CCPPNS as a statewide organization strengthens and extends parent participation in the education of young children. CCPPNS supports the right of all parents to have adequate, safe care for their children that meets the highest standards.


[answer taken from the "frequently asked questions" section of the the CCPPNS (the California Council of Parent Participation Nursery Schools) website which can be found at: http://www.ccppns.org]

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