About the Co-op
Our Mission
To provide a safe and creative environment that fosters our children’s social, emotional, cognitive, and physical growth, and instills in our children a respect for self, respect for others, and a joy for learning.
Our Philosophy
Our Co-op was organized in 1972 as an alternative to the established for-profit early childcare and preschool programs available at the time. We started as a group of parents who understood that young children learn naturally in an environment offering a choice of activities created with children’s needs in mind. We offer a quality, independent program that includes free play, games, self-help, social skills, creative expression, and field trips.
Our Team
We have creative, talented, nurturing staff who are committed to working with children and their families.
In the classrooms, our staff consists of one lead teacher and two assistant teachers. All leads must have a minimum of three years teaching experience and must be working towards their Early Childhood Degree or Child Development Associates Credential.
Our Executive Director and Program Supervisor make up the administrative team.
We value our extraordinary staff. We are committed to offering a living wage; medical, dental, and vision benefits; and a generous sick and vacation time package.
Our Facilities
Our Classrooms
Moon/Comet Room
Ages 3 to 5 years
8 to 1 child to teacher ratio
Star Room
Ages 2 to 3.5 years
6 to 1 child to teacher ratio
Sun Room
Ages 1 to 2.5 years
5 to 1 child to teacher ratio
Our Other Activity Areas
Outdoor Play
Our large outdoor play area provides shaded as well as sunny play space with a slide, bikes and cars, water/sand table, sandbox, and playhouse. Outdoor time, something each room has daily, is one of the best parts of the day.
The University District
We are fortunate to be centrally located in the University district, which gives us access to the campus and surrounding facilities. We are near Metro bus lines and are located just a few blocks east of I-5. Cowen and University (“Gorilla”) parks are frequent destinations for walks when weather and ratios permit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are your hours of operations?
We are open weekdays 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM. See our Calendar for closure dates.
Do you offer meals?
We provide healthy vegetarian snacks, and organic milk. We also serve breakfast. You will, however, need to pack a lunch for your child. For more details see Meals.
Do you offer half-day programs?
We only have full-day slots available, though you may choose to take your child home early. We do offer part time (2 to 4 days a week) or full time (5 days a week) options.
What age-group do you accept?
12 months through 5 years. The Sun Room is for ages 1-2.5, the Star Room is for ages 2-3.5, and the Moon/Comet Room is a preschool program for ages 3-5.
What are your tuition rates?
What parent involvement is required?
We are a cooperative, and parents are expected to help in the classroom, and some jobs outside the classroom are available as well. In addition, there are occasional weekend work-parties and evening parent meetings. For more details including the specific time commitment, see Parent Requirements.
What is the Co-op sick policy?
The Co-op follows guidelines from Public Health of Seattle-King County on when to keep your child home. Please do your part to keep our community healthy and safe!
What's the link to the Co-op documents?
The Co-op Google Drive contains the full Enrollment Packet, New Parent Handbook and Parent Membership Guide, among other useful information.