Parent Education Programs

Classrooms in the Bellevue College Program

From the 1960’s till 2026, community colleges across Washington state sponsored parent education programs. The parents received a college level class in child development and parenting, while the children’s class provided the “laboratory” for that class. In 2026, the State Board of Community and Technical Colleges (SBCTC) changed funding allocations in a way that jeapordizes the existence of this resource. Learn more about advocacy efforts to save them.

The information on this page is thus in transition. Some colleges will still have programs in the 2026-27 academic year, some will be closed but may have co-ops that are continuing independently. I’ll give a general overview of programs here, but check each program’s website for the most current details.

What is the children’s experience like?

The programs are play-based, because research shows children learn best through hands-on exploration in places where they feel safe and free to explore. Each classroom has several stations around the room, with developmentally appropriate activities to help kids build the skills they need. Children are encouraged to move around and explore at their own pace.

In parent-child programs (aka “mommy and me classes”) for babies and toddlers, parents stay and play along with their children. In co-op preschools, parents drop-off some days and on other days work in the classroom. Activities vary by age, but might include: art, sensory, large motor, fine motor skill builders, imaginary play, science and nature learning.

stations

Classes also include “group time” which is like a music class combined with storytime. The teacher leads the class in singing songs, dancing, playing musical instruments, and reading children’s books. This is a chance for children to practice sitting still, listening to a teacher, and participating in a group activity, all essential skills for kindergarten readiness. Academic skill-building (reading, writing, pre-math skills) is integrated into all types of activities.

What makes these children’s programs different from other programs?

Diverse Experiences in One Familiar Setting:

Most children’s programs focus on one domain of learning: dance class, art class, story time, music class, or gymnastics. These programs do it all. And they do it in a familiar space where the child feels safe and comfortable. Some of the same toys and activities reappear from week to week to provide reassurance and routine, Some new toys and activities rotate in to encourage children to explore and try new things.

Long-Term Relationships:

Lots of programs run in short sessions of 4 – 6 classes. Parent ed programs run for the full school year. Seeing the same children and teachers week after week allows kids to build friendships.

Close parental involvement:

Parents are always welcome in the classroom.

What are they like from the parent perspective: how do they work?

Each program works a bit differently, so check to be sure of the details, but here is the general idea:

Parent-infant Classes and Parent-Toddler Classes:

Meet weekly for 90 minutes two hours. Every other week, the parents attend a one hour parent education session. In infant classes, the baby remains with the parent for parent ed. In toddler classes, children are encouraged to play in one room with the children’s teachers and other parents while their parent attends parent ed.

Cooperative Preschools:

Three-year-olds may attend 2 or 3 days a week, four-year-olds attend 3 or 4 days a week. Typically, the parent stays with the child and works in the classroom one day per week, the other days are “drop-off” preschool for that family. Classes may be 2 – 3 hours long. Co-op preschools are part-time programs so you’ll still have plenty of family time for other activities.

Staffing:

There is a preschool teacher, trained in early childhood education, who is responsible for planning and coordinating the children’s activities, and leading group times. A parent educator offers a monthly parent education session and may observe during some class sessions, and provide one-one-one consults.

Parents contribute by working in the classroom once a week. They also help with the running of the school by: providing snacks, fundraising support, helping with end-of-year cleanings, serving on the board (chair, treasurer, secretary, etc.), or as class photographer, play-dough maker, etc.

Click here to learn more about cooperative preschools.

What do Programs Cost?

For some programs, you pay by the month, some by the quarter, some by the year. If you look at the cost for a quarter (11 weeks) or year (33 weeks), it may look like a lot compared to other children’s activities in the community (which might be 45 minutes a week for 4 weeks). So, to compare apples to apples, it’s best to look at it as cost-per-hour. They are typically cheaper than most other options.

Cooperative preschools tend to be about $12.00 – 14.00  per hour, with excellent ratios of one adult per 4 or 5 children. Preschools offered by parks departments, the public schools, churches, and other organizations can be in the $11 – 20 range (but without those staffing ratios). Private preschools can run up to $30 or even $40 per hour, for one adult per 6 to 9 children.

Many parent education programs and cooperative preschools offer scholarships to lower income families which can further reduce the cost. Most private programs do not offer scholarships.

What makes these programs different from others?

Parent Education:

Experienced professional educators offer information that is current and research-based but also relevant to the day-to-day reality of parenting little ones. Topics are tailored to the age and needs of the families, but may include: daily routines, discipline, child development, early learning, nutrition, potty training, emotional intelligence, kindergarten readiness, and self-care for parents.

Parent Involvement:

Participating in your child’s classroom from day one encourages you to think of yourself as an active participant in your child’s learning and an advocate for them in future classrooms. You’ll know the other children and can help your child learn about them. You’ll know what happened in class, so you can later reinforce the learning. Seeing classroom activities may give you new ideas for what you can do at home to enhance your child’s development. Having the opportunity to observe other children each week helps give you a deeper understanding of child development, and seeing parents respond to their children shows you options for parenting style.

Peer Support and Long-Term Relationships:

Parents meet with other parents over the course of many months, which allows for long-term connections. Working together on projects strengthens those bonds, as does the peer support gained when parents discuss and share the joys and challenges of caring for kids.

Programs offer classes for families with children from birth through age 5, so instead of having to search for new classes every month or every year, you always know where you can find a fun and educational class for you and your child.

Learn More about Programs Near You and Register Now!

Note: Classes for each school year start in September but it is best to register in spring or summer, because they do fill up! Mid-year registration is possible if there is space available.

If you want more information right now about parenting, look in the “categories” section on the right hand column and click through to any topic that interests you (for example, you can read my posts about tantrums or potty training or choosing a preschool or find lyrics to songs your child will love.) To receive updates as I publish new articles, go to the right hand column and click on “like on Facebook.”