Corner Co-op has been an important place for our family for the 6 years that our two girls attended. There are so many aspects of the co-op that I treasured while they attended, and I treasure even more now that they are in elementary school (Kindergarten and 3rd grade). The cooperative aspect creates a strong community, not only by getting to know the other parents, but also by getting to know the other kids, learning about how your child interacts and plays with others, and learning from the teachers how to foster a nurturing and caring space for children to grow. I've learned so much from spending time here, it's hard to put into words, but I'll try. I've learned to be more patient with my kids, to give them the time and space they need to finish something, to respect their wants and needs. To be the mom who can partner with teachers and advocate for them as they get older because I have such a deep understanding of their learning style and how they play or engage with others. To appreciate that true, self directed free play is the most powerful learning tool anyone can give their children. I see my kids now in public school and they have very different personalities, but both have such a grounding, a confidence in who they are and how to interact with and respect others. I credit the co-op for giving them this, by respecting children from a very young age, you are teaching them how to be respectful. By having confidence in their ability to choose, you are building their own self confidence. By coaching them through challenging situations and conflict (rather than resolving it for them) you are teaching them to handle those situations on their own.
We were initially drawn to corner co-op because I could not imagine dropping off my oldest daughter at a preschool and letting her cry through that transition. When I learned that I could stay as long as she needed me (and every child is different on this) I was sold. I didn't think much at the time about any other aspect of their philosophy other than it felt right to us. Now, 6 years later, I cannot imagine beginning our children's school career anywhere else. This school had become so important to us that I continued to commute after moving from Boston to Needham. There was not another school that I could find that came close to what Corner Co-op is. That said, as others have mentioned, this is not the school for everyone, but if you are the least bit intrigued by a more organic approach for your children, this place is worth looking at. The benefits and rewards for all of us as a family have been absolutely priceless read more