Thanks for the advice. My DD really thrives on routine and structure so I don't think that would be a very good fit for her. We'll stick to a more traditional preschool!
I expect that co-op preschools, like all kinds of preschools, are quite variable. A lot depends of the group of parents and the head teacher. I had a friend whose kids thrived in a co-op. They had a great hired teacher (certified in early childhood ed etc) who really led the show and the parents just helped out on the side, but always following the teacher's rules. After about 3 years, the teacher left; they had a hard time finding a good replacement, and the co-op went down hill to the point where my friend pulled her child out. Again, it is important to look at the specific programs, not just the type of program.
