About Us
Our Mission
With equity at the heart of our work, Pike Market Child Care & Preschool’s mission is to make high-quality early learning accessible to all families, regardless of income. We value relationships and nurture a community of belonging—rich in racial, socio-economic, gender, and language diversity.
Our curriculum is co-constructed with children, teachers, and families. By observing what children are curious about and building learning opportunities around their interests, we create experiences that are relevant, meaningful, and joyful. We believe every child comes to school full of potential, and every family has unique contributions that strengthen our community.
Our Teachers
Teachers at PMCCP practice Child-Centered Reflective Practice (CCRP), an approach to teaching and learning grounded in the belief that all children are competent, curious, and creative learners. Children learn best when they’re exploring, asking questions, and following their own curiosity—and that’s exactly what we encourage.
Our teachers observe and document children’s play, study their questions, and design curriculum that reflects those interests—including long-term projects and in-depth explorations. Families are invited into this process, with photo documentation and displays that share the stories of children’s growth, discoveries, and creativity.
“PMCCP is a place where our family is valued and welcome, where our daughter is safe to explore, take risks, grow, play, and learn, and where our values of equity are centered.”
— Gabrielle, PMCCP Parent
Collaboration and Experience
At PMCCP, children are surrounded by a team of caring, skilled educators who bring a wide range of experience and education in early childhood. Rather than a traditional “lead teacher” model, our classrooms are built on collaboration—co-teachers work side by side, learning from one another and creating environments where every child feels seen, supported, and inspired.
Mentor Teachers: Our mentor teachers have at least three years of classroom experience and specialized training in early childhood development. They not only guide children’s learning but also support their fellow teachers, helping to strengthen our entire community of practice.
Co-Teachers: Each classroom is led by a pair (or more) of co-teachers who share responsibility for designing curriculum, building relationships with families, and creating joyful, inclusive spaces for children to learn and grow.
Languages & Diversity: Collectively, our team speaks many languages and reflects a wide range of backgrounds, helping children and families feel at home from day one.
Ongoing Growth: All staff participate in regular training in child safety, trauma-informed care, and inclusive education—because we believe learning never stops for children or for teachers.
“Teachers and staff at PMCCP are extremely dedicated and create a wonderful community and environment for the kids.”
Community & Partnerships
Pike Market Child Care & Preschool is deeply rooted in the heart of Pike Place Market. Being part of this unique Seattle community allows us to connect children and families with the vibrant spirit, history, and resources of the Market.
We are proud to partner with organizations that share our commitment to children and families, including:
The Pike Place Market Foundation, which has supported PMCCP from the beginning and continues to champion our mission of accessibility and equity.
The Market Commons, where families come together to connect with services, resources, and community events.g
The Pike Place Market Preservation and Development Authority (PDA), which stewards the Market’s historic district and ensures that the Market remains a thriving neighborhood for all.
Many other Market partners, neighbors, and local organizations that help us provide children with rich, community-based experiences.
Together, these partnerships create a strong network of support and belonging, weaving our preschool into the daily life of Pike Place Market and strengthening the foundation for children and families to thrive.
Our History
The doors of PMCCP opened in October 1982. Founded on the idea that all families deserve access to high quality care, PMCCP provides some type of tuition assistance for up to 65% of enrolled families. Community support makes this possible. In addition to accepting City and State Child Care Subsidies, we provide tuition assistance on a sliding scale, basing each family's tuition on their income and family size. To provide this assistance we rely heavily upon the generous financial support of individuals, corporations and foundations.
Philosophy of Inclusion
We proudly welcome children and families of all backgrounds, cultures, faiths, and identities. Every child deserves a place where they can be their authentic self and know they belong.
At PMCCP, inclusion is not just a value—it is our daily practice. Through anti-bias education, we create classrooms where children develop empathy, build positive identities, and see themselves as capable changemakers. Together with families, we foster a joyful community where every child thrives.
