Testimonials

"One of the many 'big decisions' I struggled with as a first-time parent involved choosing my daughter's first school experience. Although my husband was supportive, we agreed that it was my decision. I really had no idea what to look for in a nursery school or how to weigh the features and benefits of the many available choices.

Like many other first-time parent experiences, this decision was going to be the product of unskilled labor. I made the rounds of all the local schools and saw generally the same setups, toys, and equipment. Then I met Mona Bucceri, the teacher for 'Creative Play,' the youngest children's class (she is now the Director/Lead Teacher of the Co-op). She said that the only goals for a 2 1/2 year-old in her first school are simply dealing with separation and adapting to socialization. So this wasn't about taking the first step towards Harvard Law after all! My instinctive reaction was that this made sense, and so I made the Co-op my choice.

We happily sent all three of our children through the Co-op. I found that the structure and curriculum for each class were developmentally appropriate and that my children were well prepared for kindergarten. The cooperative aspect of the school, where I was welcomed and involved be being in the classroom every so often, really made the transition from home to school very comfortable for our children (and me!). The bright, cozy classrooms and the small class sizes made socialization very natural and unthreatening.

The fact that the school is run by the parents inspired me to get involved and expand my own leadership skills. One thing that I hadn't counted on was the tremendous spirit of community my husband and I felt at the Co-op. The teachers, many who were once parents of students themselves, are all certified in early childhood education, but most importantly they are warm and caring individuals. They are also dedicated to the school, as proven by their longevity.

My husband and I have also made many life long friends - so important as we progress through parenthood!" - Sally Deehan

All four of my children are alumni of the Watchung Co-op, and all four of my children have seamlessly matriculated into the Montclair Public School system and are thriving. The socialization skills that my children have as a result of their early education at the Watchung Co-op, are a primary reason they are doing as well as they are in elementary and middle school. Each one carries great memories of their co-op experience and I would not hesitate to enthusiastically encourage any parent considering the Watchung Cooperative Pre-School to join. For me, spending three hours surrounded by and playing with 3, 4 and 5 year old children every 4 or 5 weeks, is a very 'centering' experience, I would recommend it to everyone. The Watchung Co-op gave my children an excellent foundation and preparation for 'real' school,' and gave me a glimpse of balance and perspective for what's really important." - Mark Greene

Both of my daughters attended the co-op so we were proud co-op parents for 6 years. The co-op was really a wonderful first school experience for them (and for us as new parents). It gave them the opportunity to be surrounded by warmth from the school and also the other families. It gave us the opportunity to be involved in their first school experience in the classroom, something no parent should miss. By design, the co-op helps build a sense of community for our children and lets parents help shape their child's preschool experience. My daughters, my husband and I made lasting friendships at the co-op and have memories we cherish." - Laura Goffman

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