Our Programs
Every Child’s Journey Begins Somewhere.
From first classroom experiences to kindergarten readiness, our programs are designed to meet children where they are and help them grow with confidence, curiosity, and joy. Ladybugs offers a caregiver-and-child enrichment experience for our youngest learners, while Bumblebees, Caterpillars, and Butterflies provide cooperative preschool experiences where children build independence, friendships, and a lifelong love of learning.
How Old is Your Child?
Children are typically placed in programs based on their age as of August 31. Not sure which program is the best fit? We'd love to help.
Ladybugs
Toddler and Me (12-23 Months)
A warm introduction to classroom learning, exploration, and connection.
📅 Tuesdays
🕔 5:00–6:00 PM
Our Ladybugs Toddler & Me program is a gentle introduction to learning, exploration, and community for our youngest learners and their caregivers. Through songs, stories, sensory play, movement, art, and hands-on activities, children are encouraged to discover the world around them while building confidence in a safe and nurturing environment. Caregivers participate alongside their child, creating meaningful opportunities to learn, play, and grow together.
Each week introduces new experiences that support early language development, social interaction, fine and gross motor skills, and curiosity through play. Whether it's your child's first group experience or simply a chance to connect with other local families, Ladybugs provides a joyful foundation for future learning while fostering lasting friendships for both children and caregivers.
Bumblebees
Ages 2 to 3 Years
A joyful first preschool experience filled with exploration, friendship, and fun.
📅 Tuesday and Thursday
🕔 9:00-11:00 AM
Our Bumblebees program is designed to help young children build confidence as they begin their preschool journey. Through purposeful play, hands-on exploration, music, art, stories, sensory activities, and outdoor discovery, children are encouraged to learn at their own pace while developing independence in a safe, nurturing environment.
As children grow, they begin practicing important early preschool skills such as following simple routines, making choices, sharing with friends, communicating their needs, and participating in group activities. Every day is thoughtfully planned to spark curiosity, encourage creativity, and help children develop the confidence and social-emotional skills that lay the foundation for a lifelong love of learning.
Caterpillars
Ages 3-4 Years
Nurturing curious minds through creativity, discovery, and purposeful play.
📅 Monday, Wednesday, and Friday
🕔 9:00–11:30 AM
Our Caterpillars program encourages children to ask questions, explore new ideas, and grow through hands-on learning experiences. Classroom activities are thoughtfully designed to inspire creativity, strengthen problem-solving skills, and foster independence through art, science, dramatic play, literacy, outdoor exploration, and collaborative play.
As children become more confident learners, they begin taking on greater responsibility, working cooperatively with their peers, and expressing themselves with growing independence. Through purposeful play and meaningful relationships, children develop the communication, social-emotional, and early academic skills that prepare them for a successful transition into Pre-K while continuing to discover the joy of learning.
Butterflies
Pre-K • Ages 4 to 6 Years
Building confident, capable learners ready for kindergarten and beyond.
📅 Monday—Thursday
🕔 12:00-3:00 PM
Our Butterfly Pre-K program provides a strong foundation for a successful transition to kindergarten through purposeful play, hands-on exploration, and meaningful learning experiences. Children strengthen early literacy, math, science, and problem-solving skills while continuing to develop creativity, curiosity, and a genuine love of learning in a nurturing, play-based environment.
As the oldest students at GHCP, children are encouraged to take on greater independence, demonstrate leadership, and build confidence in their abilities. Through engaging classroom experiences, outdoor exploration, and collaborative learning, they develop the academic, social-emotional, and self-help skills needed to thrive in kindergarten while continuing to experience the joy and wonder of childhood.
Ready to Experience GHCP?
Choosing a preschool is an important decision, and we'd love to help. Schedule a visit, meet our teachers, and see firsthand what makes Gig Harbor Cooperative Preschool such a special place to learn and grow.