Early Learning Center

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

Gateway's Early Learning Center (ELC) is a full-day pre-school that serves children ages 3 to 5 daily from 7:30am to 5:30pm. Tuition includes breakfast, lunch, and afternoon snack, a choice of three instructional models, enrichment programs, and parent resources.

The ELC curriculum is based upon the concept that each child is an individual and should be able to develop at his or her own pace, while providing hands-on sensory experiences to encourage children to think, analyze problems, and arrive at logical conclusions based on their own experience. The curriculum is centered around the interests, needs, and abilities of the individual child.

The ELC provides a stimulating learning environment through three classroom models: Child Development, Modified Montessori, and Creative Curriculum.

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.

Instructional Models

Child Development    This program focuses on the development of the whole child. The classroom environment is planned to allow opportunities for exploration and discovery. Learning through play, central themes, and developmentally appropriate activities is provided in a child-centered classroom.

Modified Montessori    This curriculum model is based on the theory that sensory-cognitive learning influences affective development. This approach is individualized and the child learns about the world around him or her by observing, comparing, classifying, and reasoning through the use of self-correcting, didactic Montessori materials.

Diversified Creative Curriculum    This curriculum is comprehensive in providing the framework for a developmentally appropriate program for preschoolers. The beliefs and theories that guide curriculum development and implementation include an understanding of how children develop physically, socio-emotionally, and intellectually. The teachers are adaptable and flexible.

Weekly Fees (subject to change)

• Community: $275
• Full-time Students: $170
• New Haven residents: Sliding fee scale

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. Breakfast, lunch, and an afternoon snack are provided.

Early Learning Center Staff