At the Coop, our classes offer a balance of structured and unstructured activities, with structure increasing as children are developmentally ready for it.
During child-guided play, children have access to a wide variety of materials that encourage process-focused art and allow them to move freely between areas of the classroom.
During structured times, such as circle time, children engage in hands-on, interactive activities designed to teach, inspire, and engage early learners.
When guided by an experienced educator, unstructured time becomes a powerful opportunity for children to develop both self-awareness and social intelligence in a rich and supportive environment. We also know that outdoor play is essential to healthy development, so we prioritize outdoor learning opportunities whenever possible.
Every day at the Sudbury Cooperative Preschool is thoughtfully designed to provide children with meaningful opportunities for learning, exploration, and positive connections.
A Day in the Toddler Class
Our toddlers begin the day with free-choice play, fostering independence and helping each child feel comfortable in the classroom. This time often includes sensory or art activities, encouraging children to learn through hands-on exploration and the use of all their senses. Free play is followed by snack time, which also serves as a moment to build early literacy skills through book reading, shared stories and conversations around the table. A small, interactive circle time comes next—featuring engaging activities like games, parachute play, and felt board stories. Then it’s time for Music and Movement, where children can sing, dance, and express themselves, followed by outdoor exploration to strengthen physical development and a love of nature. The day wraps up with lunch and a final story time, sending our toddlers home happy, connected, and full of new experiences.
A Day in the Preschool Class
Our preschoolers begin their day with free-choice play. Teachers thoughtfully set up a variety of activities around the classroom—manipulatives, fine and gross motor materials, art and writing supplies, and open-ended toys—inviting children to explore at their own pace.After free play, it’s time for snack, where educators help guide social interactions and encourage meaningful conversations, often inspired by topics the children themselves bring up.
Next comes interactive circle time, which typically includes a story, a song, or both. This structured group time fosters a sense of community, supports self-regulation, and helps children build positive peer relationships.
Following circle time, the class engages in a structured activity or project that touches on multiple areas of cognitive development.
The day wraps up with a nut-free lunch and active playground time, ensuring the children head home with both minds and bodies well-nourished.
A Day in the Pre-Kindergarten Class
Our Pre-Kindergarteners begin the day with free-play in the classroom, giving them time to explore, connect with friends, and settle in. Teachers thoughtfully select materials and activities that reflect current themes or lessons, sparking curiosity and engagement right from the start.Once everyone is settled, the group gathers for circle time, which includes daily routines as well as math, reading, and/or science activities. This shared time builds academic skills while strengthening group connections.
Next comes snack time, where educators guide social interactions and help children develop conversational skills.
After snack, the children head outdoors for gross motor play on the playground, giving them a chance to move their bodies and enjoy fresh air. Upon returning inside, they take part in a creative or art activity and enjoy some additional free-choice play.
The day continues with a nut-free lunch together as a group, followed by a second circle time—often featuring a group game or story that reinforces skills and concepts explored throughout the day.
