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Early Learning Center

EARLY LEARNING CENTER is a fully licensed, nationally accredited lab school for children..

CT State Community College - Early Learning Center (ELC) is a full-day pre-school that serves children ages 2.8 to 5 years old daily from 7:30am to 5:00 pm. Parents and Caretakers have a choice of three instructional models, enrichment programs, and parent resources.

CT State Community College - Early Learning Center (ELC) Located in 20 Church St, New Haven, CT 06510 is a full-day pre-school program that serves children ages 2.8 to 5 years old. Operating Hours 7:30 am to 5:00 pm, State Funded Scholarships available, Care4kids recipient, Sliding Scale Fee, NAEYC Accredited Center. The ELC is a diverse and accessible program to New Haven Residents and out of town residents.

Instructional Models

  • The Reggio Inspired Approach focuses on the characteristic of being attuned to the “hundred languages” through which children express themselves, including conversation, storytelling, music, art, dance, dramatic play, and group construction.
  • The Montessori Inspired Approach The approach focuses on independence, firsthand learning and a thoughtfully prepared environment that allows the child to grow in all the main developmental areas.
  • The Literature Inspired Approach highlights expressive and receptive vocabulary & listening comprehension, knowledge of the alphabet & phonological awareness (the ability to recognize and manipulate sounds in words).

Revolving Enrollment, all year long. Please email  or call 203-285-2132 to set up a tour!

History

The ELC opened in March 1983 through the great efforts of Dr. Earnestine Kirkland and Susan Logston. The primary function of the ELC was to provide a training site for preschool teachers and quality childcare for the community. It was the aim of the Early Childhood Education (ECE) department to integrate theoretical concepts with practical applications for those enrolled in the ECE Program. Gateway Community College students in Early Childhood Education, Human Services, Psychology, Nursing and other programs would also have the opportunity to use the Center as a learning resource in child development.

Early Learning Center

 

Early Learning Center

Mission 

Our program is centered upon the concept that each child is an individual and should be allowed to grow and develop at his/her own pace. Children learn best by participating in first-hand sensory experiences. Therefore, our curriculum encourages children to think, analyze problems, and arrive at logical conclusions. Our curriculum is centered around the strengths, interests, abilities, and needs of the children. We believe children learn best through play and discovery.

NAEYC Logo

 

Philosophy

Our program is centered upon the concept that each child is an individual and should be allowed to grow and develop at his/her own pace. Children learn best by participating in first-hand sensory experiences. Therefore, our curriculum encourages children to think, analyze problems, and arrive at logical conclusions. Our curriculum is centered around the strengths, interests, abilities, and needs of the children. We believe children learn best through play and discovery.

Our program is an inclusive model, serving children with a variety of needs. Therefore, we are committed to serving children with special and typical needs. The ELC adheres to ADA policies.

Weekly Fees (subject to change)

Community: $275
Full-time Students: $175
New Haven residents: Sliding fee scale and partial scholarships available

To be eligible for the student rates, students must be enrolled in Gateway Community College for a minimum of 3 credits. New Haven families may apply for the School Readiness Grant Sliding Fee Scale. 

Early Learning Center Contact US

Jisel Cordero, Director
(203) 285-2132