The Family Cooperative

Early Childhood Education Center from 8 weeks to 5.9 years old based in Watertown. The Family Cooperative is a community-driven child-centered non-profit that is setting a new standard for high-quality early childhood education. Our Vision The Family Cooperative envisions early childhood education that empowers each child's authentic, capable, and dynamic self. We envision educational communities in which each child, faculty member, and caregiver is inspired to be both teacher and learner. Philosophy Our philosophy is based on the concept of an emergent, child- centered, developmentally appropriate practice, inspired by the Reggio Emilia early childhood centers. We work toward fostering the social, emotional, physical, and cognitive needs of children by taking the time to develop a unique relationship with each family and each child who comes to our center. It is important to us to create a nurturing, safe environment that serves as an extension of the home. Each piece of the child’s life, family, environment, school, peers, and teachers, engage in powerful conversations with each other, creating a coherent, integrated learning model throughout the life of the child. Family Cooperative Model Families at The Family Cooperative are deeply engaged in the school community. Because many of our students have parents who work, we offer a flexible cooperative structure to meet the needs of our diverse group of families. Co-op Commitments per school year: • Join 1 parent-led co-op based on interest and availability. • Contribute with at least 15 hours. • Attend required all-school meetings (typically 2 per year). 1