Our Programs

Our Curriculum and Activities

The philosophy of the Westport-Weston Cooperative Nursery School is that young children are curious, active learners. The staff recognizes the unique qualities of each child and provides learning experiences to meet the individual needs and current state of development of each child. The Co-op values play as children’s natural way of learning. All children are encouraged to test ideas, build personal resourcefulness, and to savor the joys of accomplishment.

Admissions Process

Preschool Programs

Our classes are designed to meet children at their own developmental stage, form Toddlers to Pre-K.

Saplings

Ages

For children age 1 by September 1st

Schedule

Thursdays 9:15am to 10:30pm

Overview

Together with a caregiver, this first group experience provides social interaction in a safe environment to explore and play. Caregivers also benefit from supportive facilitated discussions each week on topics relevant to parenting and development.

Toddlers

Ages

For Children age 2 by September 1st

Schedule

2-5 days a week, 9:00am to 12:00pm

Overview

Toddlers are full of energy and wonder! Their rapid development calls for a diverse range of engaging, age-appropriate materials and activities. Teachers create opportunities for toddlers to practice new social skills and explore different play strategies. As they begin to follow routines, children find comfort in the predictability of their daily activities

Preschool

Ages

For Children age 3 by September 1st

Schedule

3 - 5 days a week, 9:00am to 12:00pm with optional lunch bunch program from 12:00pm to 1:00pm

Overview

Social skills begin to blossom in the Preschool class. Teachers provide a range of hands-on learning and exploration opportunities, both indoors and outdoors, to encourage active engagement. As children participate in cooperative play, teachers offer support to help them strengthen their social skills. This enriching environment allows preschoolers to pursue their individual interests, sparking curiosity and creativity while building strong connections with their peers.

Pre-K

Ages

For children age 4 by September 1st

Schedule

Monday to Friday, 9:00am to 1:00pm with an optional enrichment program called Stay and Play from 1:00pm to 2:00pm Monday-Thursday.

Overview

Children in the Pre-K class are developing independence and enhancing their problem-solving skills. Teachers create opportunities for children to explore their interests and support their inquiries. From science to music, the children investigate the world around them, and express their creativity, This dynamic environment fosters both individual growth and collaborative learning, laying the foundation for a lifelong love of discovery.

Summer Program

In addition to our school-year programs, the Summer Co-op offers a six-week, camp-like experience for children entering Preschool, Pre-K, and Kindergarten. The curriculum emphasizes nature, with outdoor activities like sprinklers, water slides, games, and nature walks, and teachers often adapt lessons to the outdoors. The Co-op maintains a strong staff/child ratio, with most teachers employed year-round based on their education, experience, and commitment to a safe, enriching environment.

LEARN MORE

If the children are “playing” all the time, where is the structure and learning in the day?

Each classroom follows a structured routine including outdoor play, meeting time, snacks, free play, story time, and special activities. Teachers plan each part of the day with clear educational goals, using sound developmental principles to engage children in understanding the world. We believe children learn best when actively engaged with materials, ideas, and people. What may look like “play” to adults is actually active learning, with children acting as explorers, experimenters, negotiators, and artists.
Why don’t you do “Letter of the Week”?

Research shows that focusing on one letter per week is ineffective. It lacks context and doesn't help children understand letters. At the Co-op, we teach letter recognition through meaningful words like names of the child, friends, and family. We explore printed words, sounds, and letters in our environment. Classrooms have alphabet cards and books that engage children with rhymes and new words. Children learn about letters through their own words and stories, with teachers writing down their quotes. At the Co-op, letter recognition is ongoing and meaningful.
As a “co-op,” how much time are parents expected to volunteer/participate?

Sixty years ago, the school started as a true cooperative, with families involved in all aspects of running it. Now, while families are still welcome to participate in the classroom, it is not required. Families help with fundraising by choosing one event to assist with, either as a chair or committee member. Parents can also join the school's Board or be a Class Representative in non-fundraising roles.
Does my child need to be toilet trained?

Toilet training is a family decision. When you decide it's time, the Co-op will help with the process. There is no age requirement.