About the Young Children's Program

Program Description

The Young Children's Program is an early learning program operated by the James Madison University's College of Education. Its curriculum, environment, and organization are based on professional standards and research related to learning and development of young children. The Young Children's Program operates Monday-Friday from 8:00 am-3:30 pm with three 4-year-old classrooms and two 3-year-old classrooms. An afterschool care option is available to parents at an additional cost.

The Young Children's Program recognizes that children's development is best facilitated through cooperative efforts of families and school. Family members are welcome contributors to the ongoing curriculum and are encouraged to be involved in ways that support their children's adjustment and growth. Avenues for communication are varied and personal in order to meet the needs of all families.

The YCP is accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children and licensed by the Virginia Department of Education.

Program Goals

The Young Children's Program provides an environment designed to help each child:

Grow in independence and self-sufficiency
Develop enthusiasm and skills for learning
Grow in the ability to interact positively with others
Increase personal awareness and self-discipline
Grow in the ability to use language effectively
Value individual creativity and self-expression
Construct knowledge through experience and inquiry
Develop and refine motor skills
Make choices that support personal wellness

Families

The Young Children's Program provides an environment designed to help families:

Participate meaningfully in their children's educational experience
Grow in their understanding of child development and appropriate early education
Develop a support network with other families in the program
Become more familiar with family support resources within the community