El Cerrito Preschool Co-Op

ECPC is a play-based, cooperative preschool for children ages 3-5 that has been a part of the El Cerrito community for over 75 years. We offer morning, afternoon and lunch programs with limited availability for full day. Participants may attend 3, 4 or 5 days per week.

Our play-based philosophy gives children the freedom to explore their surroundings and expand their social skills through self-directed play, guided and supported by our teachers and family participators. The school is intentionally designed for open exploration throughout our indoor playrooms and two large outdoor yards. Children may play individually, one-on-one, or in group settings in any way that allows them to be comfortable in their surroundings.

We have a caring, professional staff, with over 65 years of combined teaching experience at ECPC, including a Morning Director, Morning Teacher, Afternoon Director and Afternoon Teacher, with low turnover rate. Our teachers lead two circle time groups at the start and end of each program, where children listen to stories, share their own experiences, celebrate birthdays and participate in holiday and special events. Teachers guide and support children during their play throughout the program, and provide support for family participator volunteers.

As a cooperative, families are the heartbeat of our school, engaging in school-day volunteer participation, family jobs, membership events and community outreach.

To learn more, visit To tour ECPC, or for more information, contact admin@

If you are with a local business who would like to sponsor an ECPC community event, contact marketing@