Children's Workshop was founded in 1971 by a group of parents seeking an alternative to the established educational system then available for young children. These parents, many of them credentialed teachers, wanted for their children a special sort of learning experience. They sought intellectual stimulation and broad exposure to materials, and subject matter intended to develop curiosity, initiative and concentration in their children. The preschool has retained the original non-profit status and co-operative structure that insures families have a voice in their children's education by directly sharing the work of running the school. Children's Workshop remains a unique educational experience for families in the Petaluma area.