Montcalm Central Cooperative Nursery School

The West Michigan Council of Co-op Preschools (WMCCP) is an organization of parents and teachers dedicated to providing a positive developmentally appropriate preschool experience for young children. WMCCP assists co-op preschools in getting organized and provides ongoing support and services.
The distinguishing characteristic of the co-op preschool is its unique involvement of parents in both administration of the organization and participation in the preschool. We believe that when parents are involved in classroom participation and parent education the preschool experience will have a greater impact on the child and the family. The interaction of parents teachers and children facilitate self-esteem self-control respect for others and positive attitudes towards school and learning.
WMCCP advocates a developmentally appropriate child-centered program and curriculum. Children learn best when they are actively participating in a warm stimulating multi-sensory environment that provides for social interaction individual choice exploration and manipulation of concrete objects. Since children learn in a holistic manner an integrated curriculum is essential.
Children’s play is a primary vehicle for and indicator of their mental growth. Play enables children to progress along the developmental sequence. Experiences should match the children’s interests and understandings. Play needs longer blocks of time and for in-depth involvement with a balance of active and quiet activities.