Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Trusted Play-Based Preschool in Ann Arbor
Glacier Way Co-Op Nursery School Co-op Preschool has been nurturing a love for learning in children aged 3-5 for over 50 years. Founded in 1975, our play-based curriculum is designed to foster social-emotional growth, creativity, and autonomy through child-led exploration. Led by certified educator Amber Bowman, our program integrates music, movement, and hands-on activities to create a dynamic learning environment. Parents actively participate in the classroom, strengthening family bonds while building a supportive community.Our licensed facility in Ann Arbor, Michigan, features thoughtfully designed spaces for sensory play, art, and outdoor activities. We prioritize inclusivity, serving diverse families who value collaborative education. With a focus on early childhood development, we prepare children for kindergarten through a balanced approach of structured routines and free-choice play. Our commitment to quality has made us a trusted choice for families seeking a transitional preschool experience.
Services
Play-Based Preschool
Parent Involvement Programs
Early Childhood Curriculum
Music & Movement Activities
Social-Emotional Development
Sensory Play Stations
Outdoor Playground Access
Creative Arts Programs
Community Building Events
Transition to Kindergarten Support
Details
- Year established: 1975
Highlights and features
- 50 years of experience in play-based early childhood education
- Certified K-12 educator with music specialization leads curriculum
- Parent involvement strengthens family bonds and community ties
- Inclusive environment serving diverse Ann Arbor families
- Licensed facility with dedicated spaces for sensory and creative play
Associations and certifications
- Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs
What people say
Blossomed socially
Safe space
Compassionate handling
Confidence grow
Creative activities
Services
Play-Based Preschool
Our play-based program lets children explore at their own pace with teacher-guided activities. Daily free-choice play develops creativity and social skills through imaginative scenarios and hands-on projects. Structured routines balance unstructured exploration in a safe, stimulating environment.
Parent Involvement
Parents actively participate in classroom activities and school operations. This collaborative approach strengthens family bonds while building a supportive community network among Ann Arbor families with young children.
Music & Movement
Daily music activities incorporate rhythm, singing, and movement. Teacher-led sessions use instruments and original songs to enhance learning while developing motor skills and emotional expression.
Social-Emotional Development
We focus on building self-awareness and interpersonal skills through guided interactions. Children learn conflict resolution, empathy, and self-regulation techniques in a supportive classroom environment.
Outdoor Play
Daily outdoor time includes structured and free play on our private playground. Weather permitting, children develop physical coordination through climbing, running, and imaginative outdoor games.
People
Amber Bowman
Teacher & Curriculum Director
Certified K-12 educator with 15+ years experience in early childhood development. Specializes in music integration for preschool learning through hands-on activities and interactive songs.
Questions
What is the parent involvement requirement?
Parents assist in the classroom 2-3 times monthly and take on small operational roles. Flexible scheduling available with community support for date changes.
What curriculum do you use?
Our play-based curriculum focuses on social-emotional development, creativity, and autonomy through child-led exploration and teacher-guided activities.
Are children required to be potty trained?
Children should be out of diapers with occasional accidents accepted. We work with families on individual potty training plans.
What are class schedules and tuition costs?
Classes meet Monday, Wednesday, Friday 9 AM-12 PM. Tuition is $950 per semester with a $75 annual registration fee.
What makes Glacier Way Co-Op Nursery School unique?
Our cooperative model combines parent involvement, music-integrated learning, and community building in a play-based preschool environment.
