The program is designed to promote the development of the total individual by helping each child develop physical, social, emotional and cognitive skills at their own pace; be provided with numerous hands-on learning opportunities that engage their individual skills and interests; participate in warm relationships with adults to give them a feeling of support while developing a sense of self-worth and independence; be given consistent and understanding adult guidance, which supports needs yet limits actions and promotes gradual growth toward responsibility.
This is accomplished by providing a balanced program that includes both teacher-directed and child initiated activities, quiet as well as active experiences, and the recognition that learning occurs in both formal and informal settings, especially through play.
As young children are integrally connected to their homes and families it is understood that families are and should be the principle influence in their child’s lives. The CDC seeks to be appropriately responsive to families; parents, teachers and staff work together toward the goal of nurturing children in an environment where all are respected for their individual differences and provided with the building blocks for a lifelong love of learning.