University of Michigan Northwood Community Child Development Center
Program Overview
The University of Michigan is one of only a few universities in the nation to operate a year-round licensed child care facility through University Housing. The Northwood Child Development Center (CDC) is a nationally accredited facility offering full-time and part-time care for preschool children from 2 years, 9 months through 5 years of age. CDC provides a child-oriented learning environment and curriculum designed to foster growth in all areas of each child’s development. The program emphasizes creativity and problem solving, as well as building social skills. Experienced, well-trained early childhood teachers and low teacher-to-child ratios enable the program to nurture the unique potential of each child.
The fundamental goal of our program is to provide a secure, nurturing, and stimulating environment for children. A play-based approach to learning is implemented to provide a child-centered and teacher-guided curriculum, in which children are encouraged to construct their own knowledge. We are committed to creating a nurturing learning environment in partnership with parents to develop a sense of belonging and high self-esteem in each child. Enrollment in each classroom reflects a diverse international population, providing children with an opportunity to gain an understanding of their own unique heritage and an appreciation of the traditions of others. We hope this will become the foundation on which to begin a lifelong learning process and to launch a positive sense of self, others and the world.
Parents are encouraged to be involved in their child’s experience at CDC as much as their desire and availability allow. Families may enjoy sharing cultural traditions or foods with their child’s class. Together, teachers and parents build a partnership to ensure the best possible experience for each child at CDC and communication is a vital part to that relationship. Teachers distribute weekly plans available to all parents, and send notes, emails, or telephone calls to families frequently. Two parent/teacher conferences are scheduled during the year. Teachers and parents share information, observations and expertise to plan for individual needs and promote growth in all developmental areas.
