Preschool co-op looks to future

Parent programs offered for 30 years

COLUMBIA BASIN - In 2008, the Washington State Community and Technical Colleges agency is celebrating the 70th anniversary of its Parent Education Programs.

Big Bend Community College has offered Parent Education Programs for 30 years, said Parent Education Coordinator Hannah Nelson. Cooperative preschools are offered in Moses Lake, Othello and Ritzville.

"We're one of the very few states that actually has a parent education program," Nelson said.

Children from 1 year old to 5 years old attend classes, often with their parents by their side. The youngest children are with their parents for the duration of the two-hour class. Older children are being prepared for kindergarten, so parents spend less time in the classroom.

Moses Lake resident Dennis Knepp's 3-year-old son Arlo started the program when he was 1 year old. Arlo's older sister finished the program and started kindergarten this year.

"We really think it's developmentally appropriate," Knepp said. "The idea is that children learn through play."

Knepp said the program helps children become used to a structured day.

"When they go into kindergarten they're already used to it," he said.

Nelson said the program helps parents become involved in their child's education.

"We try to teach them that they are their child's first teacher, from day one," Nelson said.

The children are at an age where they need to learn through play, and the programs help parents turn playtime into a learning opportunity, she said.

Parents can earn credits for participating in the programs, at a discounted rate of $14. The monthly tuition fee for a child is $20 to $35. Scholarships are available for both credits and tuition, Nelson noted.

Ephrata resident Matthew Sullivan said he started bringing his 4-year-old son Milo to the preschool at 1 year old.

"We just really loved the program," Sullivan said.

The program has helped his son develop socially, intellectually and creatively, he said.

Parent Janelle Todaro began participating in the program when her child was 18 months old.

"When I first walked into the toddler's classroom, I knew this would be such a wonderful experience for us," Todaro stated. "Now, I find myself wanting to give back to the place that offered my child and I so much guidance, fun, reassurance, encouragement and more. The preschool and its wonderful teachers encourages parents to see the wonder in their child's learning. I just love it there."

In addition to attending preschool with their child, parents in the program attend a parenting class once per month, Nelson said.

Parent Libby Sullivan stated the parenting classes have given her tools and techniques for parenting.

"I also know that I am learning how to participate and be involved in my own children's education for the long term. Meeting and sharing experiences with other parents has been the best thing about this wonderful program," Sullivan stated. "I have learned so much by being present in the classroom, seeing different parenting skills and interacting with different kids, watching how my own kids interact with other parents."

She stated parents feel like they are not alone when they talk with one another about issues going on with their children.

"Parenting is really hard, and we all have our moments, but I feel very supported in a way that I don't think any other preschool could do," she stated. "It's a unique program."

In time for the anniversary, the college is looking ahead to future expansion goals. Nelson said she hopes the college can start an infant program this spring. Because the college is licensed already for infants, it would be easy to get the program started, she said.

In the next five years, Nelson would like to see a program for adolescents and early teens. In addition, she would like to see a cooperative preschool offered in Ephrata and Quincy.

"I'm really proud of Washington for having a program like this for 70 years," he said.

For more information, call 509-793-2170.