
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

Dr. Mark L’Esperance
Dean

Amy Taylor
Director, Young Children's Program

Isobel Baxter
Teacher Assistant 4 year olds

Leslie Conklin
Teacher Assistant 4 year olds

Denise Grove
Lead Teacher 4 year olds

Heather Hansohn
Lead Teacher 3 year olds

Amber Hess
Lead Teacher 3 year olds

Lauren Sanders
Lead Teacher 4 year olds

Christina Shifflett
Teacher Assistant 3 year olds

Caitlin Wood
Lead Teacher 4 year olds

JoAnna Jedamski
Program Assistant

Grace A
Student Staff

Sarah E
Student Staff

Victoria E
Student Staff

Erica J
Student Staff

Storm K
Student Staff

Cole L
Student Staff

Marina P
Student Staff

Brianna S
Student Staff

Siobhan S
Student Staff