What are the Center's hours of operation? How many hours of child care can I realistically expect the Center to provide?
The Center is open from 7:30a.m. to 5:30p.m., Monday through Friday and is able to provide full day and part-time child care. We recommend minimum attendance of 3 hours per day and 2 days per week.

I'm on a pretty tight budget. How much can I expect to pay?
Fees are on a sliding scale for students and are dependent on total family income. Forty percent of our spaces are subsidized by the State Department of Education for income-eligible families. To get a more accurate picture of cost as it applies to your particular situation, it would be best to meet with the Children's Center Director or Assistant Director.

Does the Center have any particular philosophy of child development? Will it work to meet the particular needs of my child?
The answer to both of these questions is "yes". A total individualized child development curriculum is provided. Our philosophy translates into providing an environment which offers meaningful choices to children, allowing them to learn to make their own choices. Our commitment is to the child's positive self-image, and we believe that the interaction between teacher and child is one of the most important ingredients in early childhood education.

What is the teacher-child ratio?
For infants and toddlers, the ratio is 1:3. For children, ages 2 to 3, the ratio is 1:4. For older children, the ratio is 1:8.

What is the staff of the Children's Center like?
The professional staff consists of the Director and an Assistant Director as well as a Master Teacher, and a Teacher for each age group. All are certificated by the State Department of Education and have degrees in child development or related areas. In addition, teaching teams consisting of teachers, student assistants, academic interns, and parent volunteers work to assist the Master Teachers in carrying out their curriculum plans. Support services are provided by food services and clerical staff.

Do you provide meals and snacks for the children?
Yes. Nutritious light breakfast, hot lunches, and afternoon snacks are provided at no additional cost.

Are there any programs or services for student parents?
Yes again. A Children's Center Parent Group produces a newsletter, organizes programs on various child development topics, and provides cooperative services. The extent of your involvement depends on your priorities, although parents are requested to volunteer a minimum of one hour per week throughout the semester, either in the classroom or in some other capacity.