Traverse City

For over 50 years, the Traverse City Co-Operative Preschool (TCCP) has been a cherished institution in the community, providing a nurturing and interactive environment for young children to grow, explore, and develop essential life skills. Our preschool is built on the philosophy that children learn best through play, and our experienced teachers and parental involvement ensure that every child receives the attention and care they require.

Our Philosophy and Approach

Our preschool balances structured, teacher-led time with free play, allowing children to express themselves, move at their own pace, and interact with other children at their own comfort levels. We recognize that every child is unique, and our approach is designed to celebrate and support each child's individuality. Our classes are intentionally kept small, with an excellent adult-to-child ratio of 1:4, ensuring personalized attention and a sense of community.

Our Classes and Curriculum

We offer morning and afternoon classes for 3, 4, and young 5-year-olds, catering to the varied needs and learning styles of our students. Our curriculum is theme-based, incorporating music, art, and movement to foster creativity, curiosity, and intellectual exploration. Our classes are designed to be flexible, allowing parents to adjust schedules as needed. We encourage parent participation throughout the school day, ensuring a seamless transition between home and preschool.

Our Co-Operative Model

As a co-operative preschool, we believe that families and teachers work together to create a rich learning environment. Parental involvement is essential in our preschool, with opportunities for parents to assist in the classroom, participate in special events, and contribute to decision-making processes. We believe that family participation strengthens the bond between home and preschool, fostering a sense of community and shared responsibility.

Our Power of Play Philosophy

At TCCP, we believe that play is the cornerstone of learning and development. By providing a playful and engaging environment, we encourage curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking. Our play-based learning approach allows children to explore, experiment, and solve problems, developing essential skills in problem-solving, communication, and self-confidence.

Our Admissions Process

We welcome applications for the 2024-2025 school year. Our admissions process is designed to ensure a smooth transition into our preschool community. We prioritize applications based on the following criteria: children of staff and current board members, children of current and returning TCCP families, and new applicants. Our admissions coordinator will guide you through the application and wait pool process, ensuring that every family receives a fair opportunity to enroll.