What is an Early Learning Center? BY MADISON VOORHIES PHOTO BY TONODIAZ ON FREEPIK.COM
I n the past, childcare often meant dropping off your little one at the neighbor’s house or a local daycare where the primary focus was keeping them safe and entertained. Fast forward 50 years, and the concept of child- care has transformed dramatically. Enter the era of Early Learning Centers (ELCs), where the focus has shifted from simple supervision to fostering young minds through education and development—sometimes starting as early as infancy. Research shows that 90% of a child’s brain develops by age five, according to the Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University. This makes the first five years of life a critical period for growth and devel- opment. “During these early years, children must develop a love of learning and excite- ment about school,” explains Kath Courter, Preschool Director at Boulder Country Day School. “A child’s sense of ‘I am and I can’ is often solidified in preschool, and that confi- dence will help propel them through many more years of school and learning.” ELCs embrace these pivotal stages by blending structured education with playful exploration, ensuring that young learners are not only prepared for school but also for life. “Think of it like a high-tech construction proj- ect,” Courter suggests. “During the first years of life, children are literally ‘building their
brains’ and forming upwards of one million neural connections every second. These early experiences support everything else.” So, what exactly sets an Early Learning Center apart from the daycare of yesteryear? How do these modern marvels of early ed- ucation contribute to a child’s growth? And how can parents confirm the levels of safety and professionalism when choosing a center? DEFINING CHARACTERISTICS An Early Learning Center is an educational facility dedicated to nurturing the cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development of young children, typically from infan- cy through preschool age. These centers provide structured environments where children engage in age-appropriate activities designed to promote school readiness and holistic growth. Key characteristics of ELCs include: • Educational Focus: Unlike traditional daycare centers, ELCs focus on provid- ing an educational curriculum designed
child’s growth, including social inter- action, emotional well-being, physical coordination, and cognitive abilities. This comprehensive approach ensures a well-rounded early education experience. Qualified Educators: Staff at Early Learning Centers are typically trained in Early Childhood Education, enabling them to create engaging, developmen- tally appropriate learning experiences and to respond effectively to the needs of young children. Structured Environment: Classrooms often feature various learning centers or stations—such as reading nooks, art areas, and science corners—that encourage hands-on exploration and play-based learning. This setup allows children to learn through discovery and interaction.
•
•
In Colorado, the Department of Education emphasizes the importance of Early Learning Centers in providing children with a strong start. They highlight that parents also play a significant role in assisting student learning, while teachers and educators offer crucial
for young learners. This approach supports the development of foun- dational skills like reading, math, and problem-solving. Holistic Development: Programs are designed to foster various aspects of a
support to help children thrive. SETTING THE STANDARD
•
Speaking of the Department of Education, just like primary schools, ELCs have specific
16 COLORADO PARENT FEBRUARY 2025
Made with FlippingBook - Share PDF online