“Assisting in the classroom is my favorite part of the Co-op. Now when I ask my son about his day, I
can really understand what is going on.” – Jessen, parent
Parent helpers assist the teacher in a variety of ways including putting out craft materials,
assisting children at the woodworking area, monitoring the paint area, setting up snack, helping
children wash their hands, and straightening up the classroom at the end of the day. And, of
course, joining in on the child directed play and exploration!
“My son loves to have me in the classroom. He gets to share his world with me. I have learned so
much by observing how the teacher asks questions and extends the activities the children are
engaged in.” – Beth, parent
each September, and helping parent guidelines
are provided to all families. Class representatives
set up parent helper schedules for each section.
Early in the year, each class has two parent
helpers and new parents are matched with
returning parents. Class representatives work
with parents to meet their scheduling needs.
The Parent Projects Coordinator works with the teachers and the board to develop a list of
projects for the year. Parents then select projects that fit their interests and schedule. Some
projects are ongoing while others are self-contained. Certain projects are completed at school at a
designated time (such as a Saturday playground clean-up) while others can be done at home. Many
projects involve two or more parents and provide an opportunity to meet families from other
classes.
Recent projects have included:
• Planting perennials around the entrance
• Painting new cubbies
• Moving classroom furniture for summer cleaning
• Installing/updating software
• Organizing and distributing a list of parents interested in trading child care
• Spring/Fall playground clean-up
• Making play-dough every other week
• Updating inventory of classroom supplies
• Organizing gym equipment
• Writing monthly newsletter
• Serving on the board
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