New Bern Cooperative Preschool is a welcoming, parent run school that respects the individuality of each child. Together, parents and teachers create a safe, nurturing, creative, and developmentally appropriate environment where children discover their world through play.In a play-based classroom, the teacher carefully prepares materials for the children to explore. Curious, children follow their interests and learn through exploration and experimentation. A teacher in a play-based classroom is very intentional in their interactions. They allow children to be independent, but also meaningfully engage with children to support, extend, and challenge their learning.In a play-based classroom, the skills of listening, speaking, and working collaboratively with classmates are further developed. Children learn to regulate themselves as community members and be respectful of themselves, their friends, and the environment. Experience with language, math, science, social studies, music, art, drama, and movement are all important parts of the school day.