Child Development Center

Our Focus

Our curriculum is based on current early childhood educational theory. We believe that children learn first about themselves and then the world around them. Through self-exploration of their environments, teachers are able to guide children based on their individual interest, learning styles and cultures and encourage positive growth and development. We focus on the individual need of every child, recognizing that each child is unique and learns at their own pace. We provide a developmental program which:

• Nurtures and facilitates growth
• Fosters each child’s sense of self
• Fosters diversity amongst all
• Encourages critical thinking
• Fosters each child’s positive self esteem

Philosophy

The Merced College Child Development Center is designed to provide an environment which encourages the positive growth and development of each child, family, student and staff member. The educational philosophy of all programs associated with the Center is based on the belief that the years of early childhood are the most crucial and all individuals have the right to develop to their fullest potential.

To achieve this goal the Merced College Child Development Center recognizes:

• Each child is unique and learns at his/her own rate according to individual styles.
• The primary way in which a child learns is through play.
• Children go through developmental stages of growth. The Classrooms are designed to help develop the whole child.
• Children can learn skills necessary for success which will develop a positive self image.