Our Cooperative Model

A Cooperative Playgroup is a community-driven learning environment where families work together to support and enrich the educational experience. Parents take an active role—leading activities, helping with class planning, and contributing their unique talents—all while fostering a supportive and inclusive atmosphere where children can learn, explore, and thrive.

When you join our Co-op, you’re joining a circle of families who learn, share, and grow together.

• Foster a sense of community: Connect with other families and form lasting relationships through shared experiences.

• Have a direct impact on your child’s education: Contribute to your child’s learning journey in meaningful ways.

• Enjoy flexibility and support: FCP provides resources, training, and guidance so every parent feels confident in their role.

• Involve the whole family: Parents and siblings are encouraged to participate, creating a warm, inclusive environment for all.

Together, we shape a place where both children and parents can learn, grow, and belong.

To keep participation affordable, Family Circle Playgroup operates entirely as a parent-run organization with no paid staff. Every family member plays a role in keeping things running smoothly, which allows us to maintain low fees while building a strong sense of community.

We also host fun, family-friendly fundraisers throughout the year. These not only help offset costs, also add value for our members—funds often go toward special events, guest entertainers, or extra touches for our annual Family Fun Day.

There are many ways parents can help create an environment where both caregivers and children can socialize, learn, and thrive in a cooperative setting. All members are expected to fulfill the following three key responsibilities:

1. Attend Orientation Night (September)
   This is a your opportunity to connect with other parents in your class and receive important information about your role and responsibilities for the year.

2. Assist with Your Assigned Committee
   Each family volunteer a minimum of 3 hours during the year to support one of our committees. You’ll choose your preferred committee when registering, and your committee chair will offer guidance along the way. These shared efforts help keep our program running smoothly and enjoyable for everyone.

3. Lead a Class

   • FCP: Parents take turns leading the weekly class, rotating with others in your group. For example, in a class with six parents, you’ll lead once every 6 weeks. We provide helpful materials and pre-planned themes to make teaching simple and enjoyable.

   • FCP+: Parents rotate leading 6-week unit studies, sharing teaching responsibilities with others in your group. Guidance and curriculum recommendations are available to support you every step of the way.

We offer Class Coordinator positions that are filled on a first-come, first-served basis after Class Rosters are finalized. Each class has one coordinator, and priority is given to returning FCP families.

If Board of Director positions become available, they’ll be shared on our social media pages.

Class placement is determined by availability and age group. When filling out your enrollment form on the Enrollment Page, parents can indicate their preferred days and times for playgroup.  After all forms and fees are received, FCP matches families with children of similar ages and compatible schedules. We’ll let you know your assigned day and time as soon as class placements are finalized by mid-July.

Please note: once classes are confirmed, tuition is non-refundable.

Parents are required to remain on the premises with their child(ren) during playgroup. Tagalongs—our term for younger siblings—are welcome to attend for an additional fee.