Co-op participation can be highly rewarding.  It creates a strong sense of community, provides the parent with an understanding of early childhood development, and most importantly gives you a valuable connection with your child.  Co-ops provide a way for parents to be totally involved in their child’s education.  Parents see firsthand on a regular basis how their child interacts with his or her teacher and playmates.  Parents benefit from the supportive relationships with other parents who share similar goals for their child’s preschool experience.   Co-op preschools are founded on the principle that the best education will result from an active partnership among parents, teachers, and children.  All of this comes with a commitment of time and energy.  If you are ready to teach, play, clean, prepare food, fund raise and take responsibility for the school, then you are ready to join a co-op preschool.