Celebrating Nearly 100 Years of Nurturing Children Through Play

Play-based

Preschoolers thrive with a play-based developmental philosophy

Child-led

Following the child’s curiosity and supporting their needs and interests

Cooperative

Families play an active role in running the school

Family-Involved

Parents participate in the social and educational experience

Now enrolling for the 2026-2027 school year

Now enrolling for the 2026-2027 school year

Learn more about our Admissions

As a cooperative preschool, CCC’s mission is to create, for children and their families, a dynamic and diverse environment in which learning, empowerment and growth happen in the moment through play, creativity, connection, and community.

Children gathered around a table having a tea party with scones and cups, some wearing pajamas, in a classroom.

About Us

  • A Century of Nurturing: CCC is proud to be one of the oldest continually operating cooperative preschools in North America, with a history dating back to 1927

  • Unique Cooperative Model: Our school thrives on a partnership between parents and a dedicated professional teaching staff. We believe that learning is a collaborative journey.

  • Play-Based Learning: We understand the power of play in nurturing young minds. Our play based approach encourages children to explore, create and develop critical skills.

Why CCC?

  • Fostering Confidence: We strive to create a nurturing and stimulating environment where every child feels confident, competent and cherished

  • Cultivating Diversity: We celebrate diversity and believe it’s a cornerstone of a well-rounded education. Our community encourages cultural awareness, understanding and empathy.

  • Parental Involvement: At CCC, parents play an active role in their child’s education. Our cooperative model allows families to be engaged partners in the learning process and our strong PARENT EDUCATION program is unparalleled. 

Loved by Kids, Trusted by Parents

  • This school is truly amazing - I can’t say enough about how well they help the children learn about themselves and each other and how lovely the community is there.

    Ben | Google Review | 2024

  • Your kids will have a magical experience with lots of outdoor play, gardening, stories, songs and art plus you and your child will gain friendships that will become your long lasting community.

    Berkeley Parents Network | 2025

  • The bonds you build with each family and their children are deep, supportive and last for years. Attending CCC is one of the best decisions we've made for the wellbeing of our entire family.

    Jamie | Google Review | 2024

  • I cannot say enough good things about CCC. The staff are incredibly special and gifted at their jobs. The time commitment is well worth it for the community that is built.

    Leah | Google Review | 2024

  • We felt so lucky to find this amazing school and supportive community. I was skeptical about the co-op model, but participation wasn't not only fun but a great learning experience that I'm still drawing from in my parenting. I loved that we got to process what happened with parents and teachers during the kiddos lunch so we could grow ourselves as well.

    Hillary | Yelp Review | 2022

  • The space is amazing- it feels like a magical wonderland built for preschoolers, full of pathways for kids to explore, dry river beds and natural objects for kids to build with and move around. [...] Teachers at CCC have proven true masters, striking the amazing balance of guiding and adding to students discovery of the world through play and standing back to let students gain independence.

    Berkeley Parents Network Review | 2020

Since 1927

Since 1927