Urban Mamas

Hello families with young children.  Little Lights Playschool is a gentle first step from home to school.  We offer a small class size for children ages 3-5.  Each day follows a rich nurturing rhythm inspired by nature and the seasons.  We paint, bake bread, create seasonal crafts and share in fairy tales and nature stories.   Each day we explore the world we live in with long outside playtime and neighborhood walks.  We focus on the development of strong social skills always showing respect and kindness for each other and ourselves.  In Portland, we are so lucky to have such wonderful options for early childhood education.  Please consider Little Lights Playschool for your child’s first school experience.

Program hours are Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 9-1. 

Please call to set up a tour.  www.littlelightsplayschool.org

One of the oldest Co-Op Preschools in Portland has rare openings in our 4-5s class for the upcoming school year. We strive for gender balance to a certain degree and our current spots are for girls who will be 4 on or before September 1st. 

This is one of the most amazing preschools in Portland with three sunny (ie above grade, not a basement) schoolrooms, huge outdoor area with a tire swing, play structure, natural playscapes, as well as knowledgable teachers and a play-based philosophy. 

The 4s class meets Monday, Wednesday and Thursday from 930-1230 and we are close in to many neighborhoods at SE 29th and Steele. Our tuition for the 4/5 class is $166/month.

Check us out at http://www.brooklyncooppreschool.org/ 

http://www.facebook.com/BrooklynCooperativePreschool

We only have two spots left so please message me (Grace) asap at graceforeman@yahoo.com or call me at 503-789-8665. 

The Cooperative Preschool

Irvington Preschool is run by the parents and
guardians of the preschool students. The
preschool requires a commitment by families
to help in the classroom and to ensure that
the school operates smoothly. Working
closely with the teacher, we all work
together to make the school a supportive and
challenging place for our children to grow.

Families who enroll in the preschool agree to
participate in key aspects of the program,
including:

• Help in the classroom 1 to 2 days a month
• Hold a defined job to assist in running the school
• Participate in find-raising activities
• Attend monthly membership meetings
• Fulfill five community volunteer hours per year
• Pay monthly tuition

We still have a few spots left in both classes! Please contact us if you would like to learn more about our co op preschool.

Caterpillars: Our class for children ages 2 & 3 (does not need to be potty trained) ~ meets on Tuesday and Thursday 9:00a - 11:30a

Butterflies: Our class for children ages 4 & 5 ~ meets on Monday, Wednesday & Friday 9:00a - noon

We are a Non Profit Cooperative Preschool looking for parents that want to be involved in their child's preschool experience!

Portland Circle of Friends and Family Preschool has been in existence as a cooperative preschool in Portland, Oregon since the fall of 1996.

The preschool is operated by parents and continues to provide a valuable education service, at a low cost, to families within the community.

Circle of Friends offers an experiential hands-on learning environment, encouraging independence, positive social interactions and meaningful learning experiences.

We believe in helping children build high self-esteem in a non-competitive atmosphere, an atmosphere where personal challenges are valued as a natural happening from which we learn.

We believe that helping children learn to accept what is beautifully unique about themselves, others and the world around them, is of primary importance.

Portland Circle of Friends and Family Preschool
9015 SE Rural ~ Room #2

Please visit http://portlandcircleoffriends.org for more information

Or Contact Kristy at 503-329-6457 or by email at PortlandCircleofFriends@gmail.com

 

DO YOU NEED LAST-MINUTE/DROP-IN OR ON-CALL CHILDCARE?

 

♥ Opening for Infants, Toddlers, Pre-Schoolers ~ Full-time, Part-time, On-Call, Drop-in, Overnight, Holidays & Weekends ♥
(Ages: 3 months - 4 years)

Great Rates! ~ Quality Childcare ~ Excellent References ~  Small Group ~

**Spots Are Limited**

★  Safe / Fun / Educational / Spacious / Loving & Nurturing Environment :)

 

★  All Meals & Snacks Included!

★ Call or send us an e-mail at ABCJOY77@GMAIL.COM to reserve your child's spot today!

★ Please, visit our website for more information: WWW.ABCJOYCHILDCARE.YOLASITE.COM ***
Thank You, & Have a Wonderful Day! :)

Hillsboro Arts Preschool & Day School

An arts-based preschool and alternative learning program, we are based in Hillsboro next to Mooberry Elementary. This program offers preschool, pre-k and kindergarten modules. We emphasize scientific inquiry, social responsibility and creative experimentation.

Hours: 730-530, Monday through Friday
extended hours and weekends by request
Full time is $740/month (40 hours a week maximum)
Part time is $430/month (3 days or less/20 hours per week maximum)

about us:
*State registered Family Child Care Provider
*Eco-Healthy Childcare endorsement from the Oregon Environmental Council
*Chemical-free, weapon-free home
*Gender neutral play environments
*Organic, vegan snacks & lunch
*Regular progress reports, parent-teacher conferences, quarterly portfolios
*GLBT families welcome
*Large, secure fenced yard
*Quiet neighborhood next to Mooberry Elementary School

Thanks for your interest! For more info, please see http://mrsyumyums.blogspot.com/
or call 503-360-6886 

Hello. I am a 25 year old mother, and part time student looking for a family in need of a part time nanny.  My family and I just moved, so I lost my job as a nanny, where I was caring for another child along with my own, within my own home. Now I’m looking for a part time child to care for outside the home, where I can potentially bring my own 2 year old daughter with me. 

 

I am highly qualified to be your nanny. Before having my own daughter, I was employed at CCLC “Children’s creative learning center”, as a full time toddler teacher. Before that, I was employed at A Childs Kingdom working mainly with toddlers, and infants. I have worked part time in a few other licensed child care centers, and I’ve been employed as a nanny for two different families. Over all, I have nine years working with children and I love doing it. 

 

I contain an abundant of skills including empathy, energy, communication, listening, playfulness, creativity, organization, multi-tasking etc.  

 

If I sound like I could be a good fit for your childcare needs, please feel free to email me at:

 

itskatelin@gmail.com

 

I look forward to hearing from you!

 

We are almost full for the 2012-2013 year and have just a few spots left, now is an excellent time to contact us and come for a vist!

We are  a vibrant cooperative learning preschool conveniently located next to SW Portland's Pendleton Park and in continuous operation since 1970.

- Age appropriate, play-based programs for children ages 12 months to 5 years.
- Run by parents and staffed by experienced teachers.
- Small class sizes with high adult to child ratios.
- Flexible days: Monday through Friday, 9:05 - 1pm, September - June
- Large indoor and outdoor spaces for learning and growing. We play outside   every day rain or shine!
- Eco-friendly
- Affordable: $91 - $364 per month depending on the number of days your child attends.


Contact us  today to schedule a visit:

503-244-6604

Southwest Parent-Child Collective
http://www.swparentchild.org

We are almost full for the 2012-2013 year and have just a few spots left, now is an excellent time to contact us and come for a vist!

We are  a vibrant cooperative learning preschool conveniently located next to SW Portland's Pendleton Park and in continuous operation since 1970.

- Age appropriate, play-based programs for children ages 12 months to 5 years.
- Run by parents and staffed by experienced teachers.
- Small class sizes with high adult to child ratios.
- Flexible days: Monday through Friday, 9:05 - 1pm, September - June
- Large indoor and outdoor spaces for learning and growing. We play outside   every day rain or shine!
- Eco-friendly
- Affordable: $91 - $364 per month depending on the number of days your child attends.


Contact us  today to schedule a visit:

503-244-6604

Southwest Parent-Child Collective
http://www.swparentchild.org

 

 

 

Hi Urban Mamas!

Still looking for an amazing preschool for your child?  

Hawthorne Family Playschool has a spot for a 3 year old girl in our Fall 2012 class.

Hawthorne Family Playschool or “HFP” is a small, mixed-age cooperative preschool, just south of the newly remodeled Hawthorne Safeway in SE Portland. Being a cooperative, HFP is a great place for families that want to be active participants in their child's early development.  

We have the smallest class size of any of the eastside co-ops, with a maximum of 14 students with at least three adults (one teacher plus two scheduled parents helpers).  We also enjoy additional support from interns and benefit from a culture that encourages parents to participate.

Personally, I didn’t set out to look for a co-operative preschool, but I’m so glad this is the direction we chose for our family.  The phrase “it takes a village to raise a child” is something many of us pay lip service to, but we rarely if ever have the opportunity to test it in any real way.  

At HFP, 28 families elect every year to run a school together. While we are supported by our indispensable visionary and leader, Teacher Susan Eisman, and a strong framework and culture already in place from previous years, I believe our program’s success lies in truly connecting with each other around a common goal – in this case, raising our children.  

Over time, I have come to realize that a co-op like ours helps parents learn and grow, not just children.  Being a part of a tight-knit community like ours is an incredible opportunity to build something bigger than just a school program.  Families in a co-op tend to get very close because we really do play together.  We get to know (and love!) each-other’s children through parent-helping.  There is also a greater level of trust between us because we all work so closely together.  

It’s a wonderful feeling watching my children deepen relationships with people that I feel connected to as well.  I also have a much greater ability to help them navigate these relationships when I have some personal insight to offer.  As a community, we can give each other friendship and support, both emotional and material.  We encourage our families to reach out to each other for playdates, arrange childcare swaps, share ideas and resources, and generally just tap into the positive energy that comes from connecting with each other around the children we love.

Our teacher, Susan Eisman, has been working with children for more than twenty years and, in addition to holding a degree in art and women's studies, has completed master's level work in human development with a focus on the stages of childhood.  She draws her philosophy from many quality programs like Reggio Emilia and Waldorf without being overly dogmatic.  She is a deep thinker and a sweet soul, and she encourages us to think and talk about why our kids do what they do and how we can be supportive in their discovery of themselves as individuals and part of a group.

We are a diverse community of parents who place a high value on creating an environment that supports a preschooler's natural curiosity.  I was initially drawn to the school because I loved the emphasis on natural materials and getting fresh air and exercise without pre-scripting play with traditional play structures.  Our kids climb hay bales, balance on boards, scale our branch wall and have pretend tea parties in tee pees.  

The Oregon Environmental Council designated HFP as an eco-healthy preschool and our kids enjoy healthy, vegetarian snacks each day.

Our program is heavily play-based, which I wasn't sure about at first, but I have come to appreciate the fact that 3, 4 and 5 year olds learn much of what they need to know from play and personal discovery.  I wondered if a play-based preschool would adequately prepare my children for kindergarten, but I now firmly believe that being part of a community like ours lays the foundation for lifelong curiosity and learning.  I also see how much better high-energy kids like my son thrive in an environment that supports their need to move their busy bodies.

I don’t know for sure if our school is right for your family, but I feel certain that it is one of the best early childhood programs available and one that everyone should seriously consider.  In my mind, it’s a bit of a hidden gem, and I want to encourage you to contact us for more information.  

 

If I had to sum up Brooke's qualifications as a nanny, I'd simply call her a baby whisperer. She is incredibly intuitive with children. Brooke started with our family when my son was merely 12 weeks old. He is now 2 years old and moving on to day care. Brooke is looking for a new family and the first one to snatch her up will be a lucky family indeed.

From day one, Brooke has been able to read my son better than most. Brooke was always one step ahead of us when it came to recognizing new milestones that my son was reaching. I would often come home to discover a brand new set up of toys that engaged him and took advantage of whichever milestone he had reached, from sitting up, to walking, to running and jumping, dancing and drawing.

Brooke supported my breast feeding, wore my son exclusively until he was a year old, used cloth diapers, you name it. She supported every parenting decision that we have made.

Brooke is a fun, easy-going, loving, and playful individual. She will light up the life of your child, but you will also be surprised at how much you grow to care for Brooke. Every day that Brooke leaves, my son runs to the door and blows her kisses until she is out of sight. There is no greater reference than that.

Brooke is CPR/ First aid certified and has a degree in culinary arts. She loves taking the kids on outings in her safe car. She is looking for full-time but will consider part-time.

Rates are 15hr and up for one child and 11hr up per child for nanny shares.

Contact Brooke directly for more information: Brookester8705@yahoo.com

Hi Parents,

Maybe your little one's birthday doesn't make the PPS cutoff or maybe you all aren't quite ready for the big move and want one more year in a cooperative setting.  No matter the motive, Multnomah Playschool, a cooperative preschool in SW Portland, could be JUST the place for your family for one more special year.

 

 

Our Pre-K class meets Monday - Thursday 1:00pm - 3:30pm.  Children should be age 5 by April 1.  For more information about our school, programs and accreditation please visit our website.  www.multnomahplayschool.com.

Brooklyn Preschool was founded in 1971 on the belief that children and parents benefit from sharing in a learning atmosphere. At Brooklyn, we offer open-ended activities to allow children to make choices in their work and play while engaging with other children. We also enable and empower children to develop a sense of confidence and strong self-esteem. Different learning styles are supported by many kinds of activities which promote social, emotional, creative, physical and intellectual development.

We need your help!

Eastside Family Co-op is currently looking for a new home. We are a 30 year old organization that is portland's only entirely parent run cooperative for children age 18 mo. to 3 years. Do you know of a great space, perhaps in your neighborhood? Church space, commercial space and commercial/residential spaces are all options.

Please contact Tara at tarabyler@hotmail.com if you have any leads. We appreciate your help!

For more info about Eastside Family Co-op visit:

 
Hi Urban Mamas!

It’s school choice time again and many of you are trying to decide where to send your preschooler.   I was fortunate enough to find Hawthorne Family Playschool or "HFP" when our daughter was ready for school and, four years later, I consider myself fortunate to still be a part of this program and community with our son.

I didn’t set out to look for a co-operative preschool, but I’m so glad this is the direction we chose for our family.  Maybe this seems obvious to others, but I only recently began to see our co-op as a kind of social experiment.  The phrase “it takes a village to raise a child” is something many of us pay lip service to, but we rarely if ever have the opportunity to test it in any real way.

At HFP, 28 families elect every year to run a school together. I’m not sure everyone sees it quite that way when they enroll, but that’s really what it boils down to.  It’s true we have a framework and culture already in place from previous years and we have an indispensable visionary and leader in our Teacher, Susan Eisman.  That said, I believe our program’s success lies less in following a successful formula, and more in truly connecting with each other around a common goal – in this case, raising our children.  

Over time, I have come to realize that a co-op like ours helps parents learn and grow, not just children.  Being a part of a tight-knit community like ours is an incredible opportunity to build something bigger than just a school program.  Families in a co-op tend to get very close because we really do play together.  We get to know (and love!) each-other’s children through parent-helping.  There is also a greater level of trust between us because we all work so closely together.  

It’s a wonderful feeling watching my children deepen relationships with people that I feel connected to as well.  I also have a much greater ability to help them navigate these relationships when I have some personal insight to offer.  As a community, we can give each other friendship and support, both emotional and material.  We encourage our families to reach out to each other for playdates, arrange childcare swaps, share ideas and resources, and generally just tap into the positive energy that comes from connecting with each other around the children we love.

I don’t know for sure if our school is right for your family, but I feel certain that it is one of the best early childhood programs available and one that everyone should seriously consider.  In my mind, it’s a bit of a hidden gem, and I want to encourage you to check out our Open House on Saturday, February 11th (10am to 1pm).  We do give enrollment priority to families who attend, so mark your calendars!  I’m sure you’ll come with lots of questions that we’re happy to answer, but here are some of the important things to know about us:

Hawthorne Family Playschool or “HFP” is a small, mixed-age cooperative preschool, just south of the Hawthorne Safeway under construction in SE Portland.  Being a cooperative, HFP is a great place for families that want to be active participants in their child's early development.  

We have the smallest class size of any of the eastside co-ops, with a maximum of 14 students with at least three adults (one teacher plus two scheduled parents helpers).  We also enjoy additional support from interns and benefit from a culture that encourages parents to participate.

Our teacher, Susan Eisman, has been working with children for more than twenty years and, in addition to holding a degree in art and women's studies, has completed master's level work in human development with a focus on the stages of childhood.  She draws her philosophy from many quality programs like Reggio Emilia and Waldorf without being overly dogmatic.  She is a deep thinker and a sweet soul, and she encourages us to think and talk about why our kids do what they do and how we can be supportive in their discovery of themselves as individuals and part of a group.

We are a diverse community of parents who place a high value on creating an environment that supports a preschooler's natural curiosity.  I was initially drawn to the school because I loved the emphasis on natural materials and getting fresh air and exercise without pre-scripting play with traditional play structures.  Our kids climb hay bales, balance on boards, scale our branch wall and have pretend tea parties in tee pees.  The Oregon Environmental Council designated HFP as an eco-healthy preschool and our kids enjoy healthy, vegetarian snacks each day.

Our program is heavily play-based, which I wasn't sure about at first, but I have come to appreciate the fact that 3, 4 and 5 year olds learn much of what they need to know from play and personal discovery.  I wondered if a play-based preschool would adequately prepare my children for kindergarten, but I now firmly believe that being part of a community like ours lays the foundation for lifelong curiosity and learning.  I also see how much better high-energy kids like my son thrive in an environment that supports their need to move their busy bodies.

I encourage all of you to come visit HFP at our Open House between 10am and 1pm on Saturday, February 11th and meet Susan Eisman, our very special teacher, and our community of deeply involved parents who are the other ingredient to making this a great environment.  Feel free to contact me with any questions you may have about our school or the co-op experience.

Warmly,

Shannon Rhoads

Membership Chair, Hawthorne Family Playschool

Email me at: membership at hawthornefamilyplayschool.org 

Parents and Children are cordially invited to our Annual Open House.

Please join us any time between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. on February 11th to:

• Visit the classrooms and outdoor play area
• Meet our teachers
• Talk to currently enrolled parents and children
• Ask questions about our programs and enrollment

Feel free to email Caitlin, our Membership Coordinator, for more information: info@swparentchild.org

And don't forget to visit our web site at www. swparentchild.org

See you soon!

 

If so, please think of Multnomah Playschool and attend the MPS open house on Thursday, January 26 (6:30-8:30pm). All are welcome, including your child. It will be an opportunity to peek around the school, meet parents of the children currently attending and talk with the teachers one-on-one. Open enrollment has already begun for next fall, so if you'd like to get on the wait list, send an email via the MPS website at www.multnomahplayschool.com. 

A little about the school:
Founded in 1948, Multnomah Playschool is the oldest nonprofit parent-cooperative preschool in Oregon. MPS is accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (a rigorous quality benchmark achieved by less than 15% of preschools nationwide), are members of Parent-Child Preschools of Oregon, and are certified Eco-Healthy by creating a safe, non-toxic, environmentally healthy setting for our children to learn and grow. 

MPS is a play-based school where the students can delve into a multitude of art projects, learn about the science behind cooking and can dig in the garden. The students are free to explore the entire classroom--create art, dig in the sand/water/ice/or seed box, partake in snack, play dress-up, read with a grown-up, explore the science area, build with blocks, etc. The students are encouraged to utilize the large outside space (with adult supervision) for most of the class period as well. The children collect on the rug 15 minutes before the end of class and the head teacher reads the students stories and leads them in song before the parents arrive for pick-up. MPS is located next to the synagogue on Dosch and offers two full-time teachers per class (a 4:1, student/adult ratio).
Class offerings:

*3's class: T & Th, 9:00-11:30am (age 3 by November 15), $130/mo
*4's class: MWF, 9:00-11:30am, (age 4 by November 15), $186/mo
*Pre-K class: M-TH, 1:00-3:30pm (age 5 by April 1), $260/mo
*Optional lunch and play time (open to all students): 11:30-1:00pm, $7/session

 

 

Are you looking for a cooperative preschool in the Portland metro area for your daughter or son? This is the event for you!

Cooperative preschools from around the Portland metro area will be present to answer questions about their specific programs. This is a great way to gather information, learn about open house dates and meet other parents interested in the cooperative preschool experience for their family.

Children are welcome: Snack and craft tables will be set up in the room. Hope to see you there!

Event organized by Tillamook and Irvington Preschools and the Parent Child Preschool Organization (PCPO).  

Still looking for an amazing preschool for your child?  

Hawthorne Family Playschool has a spot for a 3 year old girl.

Hawthorne Family Playschool or “HFP” is a small, mixed-age cooperative preschool, just south of the Hawthorne Safeway in southeast Portland. Being a cooperative, HFP is a great place for families that want to be active participants in their child's early development. 

Aside from our fabulous teacher, our strength comes from families that are eager to fully participate in the HFP community. This is particularly true of HFP, given that we keep our class size smaller than most (14 students).  Smaller classes allow for greater focus on each child and create a more intimate feel to our classroom environment.

Our teacher, Susan Eisman, has been working with children for more than twenty years and, in addition to holding a degree in art and women's studies, has completed master's level work in human development with a focus on the stages of childhood.  She draws her philosophy from many quality programs like Reggio Emilia and Waldorf without being overly dogmatic.  She is a deep thinker and a sweet soul, and she encourages us to think and talk about why our kids do what they do and how we can be supportive in their discovery of themselves as individuals and part of a group.

We are a diverse community of parents who place a high value on creating an environment that supports a preschooler's natural curiosity.  I was initially drawn to the school because I loved the emphasis on natural materials and getting fresh air and exercise without pre-scripting play with traditional play structures.  Our kids climb hay bales, balance on boards, scale our branch wall and have pretend tea parties in tee pees.   The Oregon Environmental Council designated HFP as an eco-healthy preschool and our kids enjoy healthy, vegetarian snacks each day.

Our program is heavily play-based, which I wasn't sure about at first, but I have come to appreciate the fact that 3, 4 and 5 year olds learn much of what they need to know from play and personal discovery.  I wondered if a play-based preschool would adequately prepare my children for kindergarten, but I now firmly believe that being part of a community like ours lays the foundation for lifelong curiosity and learning.  I also see how much better high energy kids like my son thrive in an environment that supports their need to move their busy bodies.

A co-op is a unique school model in that so much of it is parent-driven. Over the years, it’s become apparent that the co-op experience isn’t right for everyone. For the families who love our program, however, (and there are many!) they see what we do as deeply rewarding. They see the contributions they make to our program as worth the effort, and often the effort is part of the enjoyment as well.  We’re not just bringing our children to school, we’re building a tight-knit community with them, and it’s a labor of love.
 

At HFP, we look for families who are really excited by our vision and who can help us create a strong community for the school and for the children. I encourage all of you to contact me with any questions you may have about our school or the co-op experience and to request an application.  

Warmly,

Shannon Rhoads

Membership Coordinator, Hawthorne Family Playschool

Email me at:  membership at hawthornefamilyplayschool.org

 

School in the Forest.... if that sounds magical to you, come learn about Woodhaven School's Outdoor Kindergarten and nature-based preschool programs this weekend.

Woodhaven School in Beaverton (near SW Walker and HWY 217) is hosting an Open House for parents and kids interested in joining our Outdoor Kindergarten or Preschool programs for the 2012-2013 school year.

Woodhaven School is a Waldorf-based preschool and outdoor kindergarten. We are a non-profit, cooperative school with three grade levels: 3-4 year olds, 4-5 year olds and Kindergarten!

OPEN HOUSE

Saturday, January 7, 2012
Outdoor Kindergarten Round-Up 2-3 pm
Preschool 3-5 pm

11265 SW Cabot Street
Beaverton, OR 97005
Located in the basement of St. Bartholomew's Church (not affiliated)

Learn more about Woodhaven.

Who are we?

Portland Circle of Friends and Family Preschool has been in existence as a cooperative preschool in Portland, Oregon since the fall of 1996. The preschool is operated by parents and continues to provide a valuable education service, at a low cost, to families within the community.

Mission Statement

Portland Circle of Friends and Family Preschool serves young children by providing a developmentally appropriate play-based program, which builds high self-esteem and encourages problem solving skills.

Our Philosophy

Circle of Friends offers an experiential hands-on learning environment, encouraging independence, positive social interactions and meaningful learning experiences.

We believe in helping children build high self-esteem in a non-competitive atmosphere, an atmosphere where personal challenges are valued as a natural happening from which we learn. We believe that helping children learn to accept what is beautifully unique about themselves, others and the world around them, is of primary importance.

 

Portland Circle of Friends is located at 9015 SE Rural St. Rm # 2 in Portland, Oregon next to Kelly Elemetary. We are currently enrolling for both classes, Butterflies, ages 4s and 5s are Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9am-noon, tuition is $95 per month. Caterpillars, ages 2s and 3s are Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9am-11:30am, tuition is $70 per month. There is a one time registration fee of $60. Please contact Lindsey at 503-880-7123 or go to our site and leave us a note at PortlandCircleofFriends.org

SW Portland

Southwest Parent-Child Collective is a cooperative Preschool dedicated to nurturing creative growth in children. We have TWO openings in our Preschool (3-5 year olds)! Please contact us (see below) and come for a visit with your child to see what makes us so special!

• A vibrant co-op (est. 1970)
• Run completely by parents
• Staffed by experienced teachers
• High adult/ child ratios
• Flexible days, 4-hour programs for children 12 months to 5 years old
• Eco-Healthy Childcare certified

lease visit our web site at http://www.swparentchild.org/ for more information.
Our membership coordinator will love to talk to you, please follow this link to our contact information: http://www.swparentchild.org/?page_id=3

Still looking for an amazing preschool for your child?  

Hawthorne Family Playschool has a spot for a child who turned 3 by September 1st but is not yet 4. 

 

Hawthorne Family Playschool or “HFP” is a small, mixed-age cooperative preschool, just south of the Hawthorne Safeway in southeast Portland. Being a cooperative, HFP is a great place for families that want to be active participants in their child's early development. 

Aside from our fabulous teacher, our strength comes from families that are eager to fully participate in the HFP community. This is particularly true of HFP, given that we keep our class size smaller than most (14 students).  Smaller classes allow for greater focus on each child and create a more intimate feel to our classroom environment.

 

Our teacher, Susan Eisman, has been working with children for more than twenty years and, in addition to holding a degree in art and women's studies, has completed master's level work in human development with a focus on the stages of childhood.  She draws her philosophy from many quality programs like Reggio Emilia and Waldorf without being overly dogmatic.  She is a deep thinker and a sweet soul, and she encourages us to think and talk about why our kids do what they do and how we can be supportive in their discovery of themselves as individuals and part of a group.

We are a diverse community of parents who place a high value on creating an environment that supports a preschooler's natural curiosity.  I was initially drawn to the school because I loved the emphasis on natural materials and getting fresh air and exercise without pre-scripting play with traditional play structures.  Our kids climb hay bales, balance on boards, scale our branch wall and have pretend tea parties in tee pees.   The Oregon Environmental Council designated HFP as an eco-healthy preschool and our kids enjoy healthy, vegetarian snacks each day.

 

Our program is heavily play-based, which I wasn't sure about at first, but I have come to appreciate the fact that 3, 4 and 5 year olds learn much of what they need to know from play and personal discovery.  I wondered if a play-based preschool would adequately prepare my children for kindergarten, but I now firmly believe that being part of a community like ours lays the foundation for lifelong curiosity and learning.  I also see how much better high energy kids like my son thrive in an environment that supports their need to move their busy bodies.

 

A co-op is a unique school model in that so much of it is parent-driven. Over the years, it’s become apparent that the co-op experience isn’t right for everyone. For the families who love our program, however, (and there are many!) they see what we do as deeply rewarding. They see the contributions they make to our program as worth the effort, and often the effort is part of the enjoyment as well.  We’re not just bringing our children to school, we’re building a tight-knit community with them, and it’s a labor of love.
 

At HFP, we look for families who are really excited by our vision and who can help us create a strong community for the school and for the children. I encourage all of you to contact me with any questions you may have about our school or the co-op experience and to request an application.  

Warmly,

Shannon Rhoads

Membership Chair, Hawthorne Family Playschool

Email me at:  membership at hawthornefamilyplayschool.org

 

 

Woodhaven School is hosting an Open House on Saturday, October 8th from 3-5 pm.

Meet Teacher Heidi, check out our Waldorf-inspired classroom and explore our woods! We are a cooperative preschool and outdoor kindergarten in Beaverton. Our school emphasizes child choice and a love and respect for nature.

Woodhaven School

11265 SW Cabot Street

Beaverton, OR 97005

503-520-0807

Woodhaven School is in the lower level of St. Bartholomew's Church (not affiliated).

My daughter just turned 2 and has become obsessed with the idea of going to school. We weren't planning on sending her to preschool until next year, but she's asking again and again and anytime we're out and see a preschool she tries to follow them back to school.

I work from home and am able to watch her full time, so am not looking for traditional daycare--nor do I have the budget for that. I'd love someplace she can go for 2 days or so for half days, so she can have the structure of a school-type situation and meet other kids. I have scoured the web looking for co-ops and other options and haven't really come up with much. Most places take only 3 year olds (and up) or are full day daycare situations. 

Any advice, ideas or recommendations would be greatly appreciated. Thank you! Please feel free to message me at nicmmiller at gmail dot com.

 

Hi!

I'm looking for childcare very close to my work place near Lair Hill Park in SW Portland.  Interested in child care centers, nanny-shares....anything.   I hope to find loving, eco-conscious care; even better if the care giver(s) will speak to my baby in another language.   Care must be able to occur at your site, and I can come visit on my lunch break :)  My child is 7 months old.  

Please email ksimpson68@gmail.com if you know of any great options in the area! 

Thanks,

Kelly

We are a unique Portland co-op truly dedicated to nurturing creative growth in children (est. 1970). We have TWO openings in our Preschool (3-5 year olds) at this time. Please contact us (see below) and come for a visit with your child to see what makes us so special!

We are a unique Portland co-op truly dedicated to nurturing creative growth in children (est. 1970). We have TWO openings in our Preschool (3-5 year olds) at this time. Please contact us (see below) and for a visit with your child to see what makes us so special! A vibrant co-op (est. 1970) Run completely by parents Staffed by experienced teachers High adult/ child ratios Flexible days, 4-hour programs for children 12 months to 5 years old Eco-Healthy Childcare certified Please visit our web site at http://www.swparentchild.org/ for more information. Follow this link to our contact information: http://www.swparentchild.org/?page_id=3

www.hawthornefamilyplayschool.org

 

Hi, my name is Catherine.  My husband and I have a three-year-old daughter who, in a few short weeks, will begin her first days of preschool.  We could not be happier with our choice in Hawthorne Family Playschool. 

 

Hawthorne Family Playschool is a nature and play-based environment. The outdoor play area is a world of wonder and an extension of the indoor classroom.  From the first time our daughter visited the school, she opened up in a completely new and wonderful way.  Usually afraid to climb, she immediately scampered up and down the climbing ropes outside, jumped into the large, covered sand area and moved indoors.  She found an art table to explore, a pretend area to play, a trampoline, and the indoor tree house where she continued her newfound courage in climbing.  After comfortably exploring, she settled into a rocking chair to enjoy a book. 

 

While my daughter was enjoying her book, I had an opportunity to speak with the teacher, Susan Eisman.  Susan is a very inspiring and encouraging teacher.  She draws from the practices of Reggio Emilia, Waldorf, Reevaluation Counseling and peace activism.  She completed her Master’s coursework in human development and has been joyfully working with young children and families since 1990.

“I get to give children messages about how amazing they are.  I get to encourage each child to take risks, be compassionate, and build relationships.  I get to nudge children to trust themselves, to solve problems and to resolve conflicts.  I partner with children to appreciate the natural world, to notice and appreciate differences among people and to encourage children to stand up for the best possible outcome.  In these ways, we build a healthy community of learners.”

 

We knew from watching our daughter that day, hearing from other parents and speaking with Susan, that we had found a wonderful school for our daughter.

 

As an introduction, Hawthorne Family Playschool had play-dates at neighborhood parks this summer as well as a potluck picnic.  In the coming weeks, there is an annual Ice Cream Social at the school, which should be a fun and relaxed environment for all the families to mingle and greet each other.  (I say relaxed but I also mentioned ice cream…and there will be kids…well, it will be fun!)  Shortly after, Susan will be scheduling our in-home visit, allowing for one-on-one time with our family and giving her time to get to know our daughter.

 

If you are looking for a preschool for your child, I highly recommend Hawthorne Family Playschool.  It is an amazing school with a wonderful teacher and a kind, committed group of parents.

 

If you would like to schedule a tour, meet our teacher or have any questions, please contact our Membership Coordinator, Shannon at 503-332-6530.  You may also visit our website at www.hawthornefamilyplayschool.org.

 

Thank you,

 Catherine

 

Nestled among the trees in Southwest Portland, Multnomah Playschool (MPS) is a Nationally Accredited Parent Cooperative Preschool for children aged 2.5 - 6.  With a focus on play-centered learning, we strive to create an environment where the child’s world is forefront, where they feel free to learn and explore and safe to create, imagine and to be themselves.  At MPS we know that play isn’t just fun (even though it is!!), it’s a child’s “work” and integral to their healthy development.
 
We are now enrolling for the 2011-2012 school year:
 
Three’s: (Age 3 by November 15th)
Meets T/Th mornings from 9:00am-11:30am
 
Four’s: (age 4 by November 15)
Meets M/W/F mornings from 9:00am-11:30am
 
Pre-K:  (Age 5 by April 1) a pre-kindergarten class
Meets M-Th afternoons from 1:00pm – 3:30pm

* Extended day available thru daily “Lunch & Play” program available to all enrolled students from 11:30pm-1:00pm.

Some highlights:
 
·      Accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (a rigorous quality benchmark achieved by less than 15% of preschools nationwide, MPS was the first co-op in Oregon to receive accreditation)
·      A member of Parent-Child Preschools of Oregon
·      Certified as an Eco-Healthy Child Care Provider by the OEC--your child has a safe, non-toxic, environmentally healthy setting to learn and grow 
·      Child Magazine named Multnomah Playschool one of the top ten preschools in the United States.
·      Large outside play area
·      Artist-in-residence in the Spring
·      Two full-time teachers plus two parent helpers in every class (a 4:1, child:adult ratio)

 
Want to learn more?  Visit us at multnomahplayschool.com or call 503-244-9141.

Who are we?

Portland Circle of Friends and Family Preschool has been in existence as a cooperative preschool in Portland, Oregon since the fall of 1996. The preschool is operated by parents and continues to provide a valuable education service, at a low cost, to families within the community.

Mission Statement

Portland Circle of Friends and Family Preschool serves young children by providing a developmentally appropriate play-based program, which builds high self-esteem and encourages problem solving skills.

Our Philosophy

Circle of Friends offers an experiential hands-on learning environment, encouraging independence, positive social interactions and meaningful learning experiences.

We believe in helping children build high self-esteem in a non-competitive atmosphere, an atmosphere where personal challenges are valued as a natural happening from which we learn. We believe that helping children learn to accept what is beautifully unique about themselves, others and the world around them, is of primary importance.

 

Portland Circle of Friends is located at 9015 SE Rural St. Rm # 2 in Portland, Oregon next to Kelly Elemetary. We are currently enrolling for both classes, Butterflies, ages 4s and 5s are Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9am-noon, tuition is $95 per month. Caterpillars, ages 2s and 3s are Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9am-11:30am, tuition is $70 per month. There is a one time registration fee of $60. Please contact Lindsey at 503-880-7123 or go to our site and leave us a note at PortlandCircleofFriends.org

Hello Fellow Parents!

Does anybody want to swap childcare with another parent in the community? Sharing childcare between our homes for 15-20 hours a week would give us all of the free time that we need to do .... anything! Paid work, vacuuming without our hands full, painting or going for a run. I could drop my child off at your house for 15-20 hours a week and then, in turn, you could drop your little peanut off at my house for the same number of hours. We can find an inexpensive multi-seated stroller to share. I've got a Pack n' Play for your little one to nap in. Our back yard is fenced for romping. We're smoke and pet free in case you have allergies, though your animals are just fine with us.

In addition to being a parent, I was a nanny for many, many years and I have gobs of childcare experience and qualifications. I bet you do too. You and I both have clean driving records and excellent character references, so we are well qualified to help each other out. Perhaps we can take an Infant/Child CPR class together and do a mutual background check before we get started. And if we get really comfortable with our awesome situation, maybe we could even do a couple of overnights after a while.

I don't currently have a paid job (though, perhaps I will at some point), so which hours of the week we trade are pretty flexible. My baby was born March 20th of this year, but I don't foresee any age split between our children being a problem, as I have worked with a huge range of ages in the past, and have never had more than a few melt downs over tipped towers. I only have the one baby, but if you have two, that would be alright as well. I live in South East Portland (Hawthorne) and would love to walk over to your house, but driving is always an option.

Anybody want to barter childcare to gain some much-needed parental free time? My baby and I would love to meet in a cafe, porch or living room to hang out and discuss the possibilities! Seems like the perfect Portland community solution to me!  :)

eamail:  beth at bethmattson dot com

Come check out Woodhaven School's Preschool & Outdoor Kindergarten programs at an Open House:

Saturday, Aug. 6, 2011

3-5 pm

Woodhaven School

11265 SW Cabot Street, Beaverton

Located in the basement of St. Bartholomew's Church (not affiliated)

www.WoodhavenSchool.com

Download a Flyer

2 PT/FT openings available in our alternative, home-based preschool program starting August 1.

Current enrollment is 5, maximum will be 6 with a teacher:student ratio of 1:6. We have two students moving at the end of the summer, so we will be filling their spots. 

Rates are $205/week for full time (40 hours per week maximum, excluding scheduled naps), $125/week for part time (20 hours or less).
Hours are Monday through Friday, 745am to 530pm. Occasional weekends, evenings, early morning starts or late pickups are possible for an additional fee.

*State registered care 
*Pediatric CPR certification
*Oregon Food Handler's Card
*Eco-Healthy Childcare endorsement from the Oregon Environmental Council
*Chemical-free, weapon-free home
*Organic & vegetarian/vegan snacks, meals
*GLBT families welcome
*Large, secure fenced yard
*Quiet neighborhood next to Mooberry Elementary School

Please visit our website:

http://mrsyumyums.blogspot.com/

phone: 503-360-6886

 

Still looking for an amazing preschool for Fall 2011?  

Hawthorne Family Playschool has a couple of spots available for children who will be 3-years old by September 1st but not yet 4. 

Hawthorne Family Playschool or “HFP” is a small, mixed-age cooperative preschool, just south of the Hawthorne Safeway in southeast Portland. Being a cooperative, HFP is a great place for families that want to be active participants in their child's early development. 

Aside from our fabulous teacher, our strength comes from families that are eager to fully participate in the HFP community. This is particularly true of HFP, given that we keep our class size smaller than most (14 students).  Smaller classes allow for greater focus on each child and create a more intimate feel to our classroom environment.

Our teacher, Susan Eisman, has been working with children for more than twenty years and, in addition to holding a degree in art and women's studies, has completed master's level work in human development with a focus on the stages of childhood.  She draws her philosophy from many quality programs like Reggio Emilia and Waldorf without being overly dogmatic.  She is a deep thinker and a sweet soul, and she encourages us to think and talk about why our kids do what they do and how we can be supportive in their discovery of themselves as individuals and part of a group.

We are a diverse community of parents who place a high value on creating an environment that supports a preschooler's natural curiosity.  I was initially drawn to the school because I loved the emphasis on natural materials and getting fresh air and exercise without pre-scripting play with traditional play structures.  Our kids climb hay bales, balance on boards, scale our branch wall and have pretend tea parties in tee pees.   The Oregon Environmental Council designated HFP as an eco-healthy preschool and our kids enjoy healthy, vegetarian snacks each day.

Our program is heavily play-based, which I wasn't sure about at first, but I have come to appreciate the fact that 3, 4 and 5 year olds learn much of what they need to know from play and personal discovery.  I wondered if a play-based preschool would adequately prepare my children for kindergarten, but I now firmly believe that being part of a community like ours lays the foundation for lifelong curiosity and learning.  I also see how much better high energy kids like my son thrive in an environment that supports their need to move their busy bodies.

A co-op is a unique school model in that so much of it is parent-driven. Over the years, it’s become apparent that the co-op experience isn’t right for everyone. For the families who love our program, however, (and there are many!) they see what we do as deeply rewarding. They see the contributions they make to our program as worth the effort, and often the effort is part of the enjoyment as well.  We’re not just bringing our children to school, we’re building a tight-knit community with them, and it’s a labor of love.
 

During our enrollment period every year, we look for families who are really excited by our vision and who can help us create a strong community for the school and for the children. I encourage all of you to contact me with any questions you may have about our school or the co-op experience and to request an application.  

Warmly,

Shannon Rhoads

Membership Coordinator, Hawthorne Family Playschool

Email me at:  membership at hawthornefamilyplayschool.org

• Multnomah Playschool is the oldest nonprofit parent-cooperative preschool in Oregon
• Play-based school
• Two full-time teachers 
• Large outside play area
• Anti-bias curriculum
• Affordable (scholarships also available)
• Teachers with longevity at the school
• Child Magazine named Multnomah Playschool one of the top ten preschools in the United States
• Warm, inviting community

 

         3’s: T&Th, 9:00-11:30am (3 by Nov 15)

        4’s: MWF, 9:00-11:30am (4 by Nov 15)

        4’s and 5’s Pre-K: M-TH 1:00-3:30pm (5 by April 1)

        $116-$232 depending on program

        Optional lunch and play time: 11:30-1:00pm, $7/session

 

• Accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Child. MPS was the first co-op in Oregon to receive accreditation.
• Long-term members of Parent-Child Preschools of Oregon.
• Certified Eco-Healthy to create a safe, non-toxic, environmentally healthy setting for our children to learn and grow.

 

Please contact us for more information or to schedule a visit

MULTNOMAH PLAYSCHOOL

503.244.9141

INFO@MULTNOMAHPLAYSCHOOL.COM

WWW.MULTNOMAHPLAYSCHOOL.COM

 5500 SW DOSCH ROAD

 PORTLAND, OREGON 97239

 

Southwest Parent-Child Collective is currently enrolling for next fall. 

SWPCC is a vibrant cooperative learning preschool conveniently located next to SW Portland's Pendleton Park. 

• Age appropriate, play-based programs for children ages 12 months to 5 years. 
• Run by parents and staffed by experienced teachers. 
• Small class sizes with high adult to child ratios. 
• Flexible days: Monday through Friday, 9:05 - 1pm, September - June 
• Large indoor and outdoor spaces for learning and growing. We play outside every day rain or shine! 
• Eco-friendly. 
• Affordable.
• In continuous operation since 1970! 

Call today to schedule a visit! 
503-244-6604 
Southwest Parent-Child Collective http://www.swparentchild.org