Infant-Toddler
Clayton Early Childhood Center's infant/toddler classrooms are for children ages six weeks to two years. Teachers use the research-based Creative Curriculum to implement developmentally-appropriate lesson plans, and to document and assess each child's progress.
With student:teacher ratios that meet or exceed state guidelines, our teachers are able to develop a relationship with each child they serve. Small class sizes offer an intimate, family atmosphere.
In a child’s first year especially, teachers work closely with parents to coordinate care and schedules that maintain consistency between home and school, and to address each child’s unique needs and development.
At the same time, teachers create regular routines in their classrooms that provide the stability and order children naturally seek, and allow older children to serve as role models, fostering a sense of community even as feeding and nap schedules differ.
As children enter the toddler stage, they begin to participate more fully in planned, daily classroom activities. Teachers encourage structure, but also experimentation and creativity, and continue to monitor and support each child’s unique, individual development.
We offer full-time care for infants and toddlers on a full-day basis. Drop-off and pick-up times are flexible to accommodate the needs of busy families, and parents are encouraged to visit their children during the school day.
Preschool
Clayton Early Childhood Center's preschool program maintains the homelike atmosphere established in our infant/toddler classrooms.
Teachers use the research-based Creative Curriculum to design child-centered lesson plans, and to document and support each student's development and learning. These materials stay with each student throughout his or her time at CECC, and aid in the transition to Kindergarten.
Because we offer full day programs, children receive top-notch preparation for Kindergarten with greater continuity of care – no before or after school programs necessary.
Our preschool teachers model consistency, planning, repetition, and routine in their classrooms, at the same time encouraging student creativity, exploration, and discovery.
Age appropriate daily lessons plans include reading and literacy, art, music, math, motor and sensory activities. Outdoor play is planned twice daily and the park and outdoor classroom are used to support learning in science, math and other curricular areas.
Teachers regularly assess and report to parents about their children’s progress and development, both informally and in scheduled conferences.
As in our infant/toddler classrooms, CECC teachers aim to support the families they serve through consistent and open communication.