About WMCCP

Our Mission

The West Michigan Council of Cooperative Preschools (WMCCP) mission is to provide service and support for member parent cooperative preschools, to promote developmentally appropriate learning experiences for children and to present educational information for parents.

WMCCP Philosophy

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.

Cooperation between school and home is of the utmost importance. Parents are expected to be actively involved in supporting this significant experience for their children and for their growth as parents.