Early Learning Center
The PBS Early Learning Center (ELC) provides a joyful and engaging environment where young children construct their understanding of the world through creative, intrinsically motivated exploration. Play is central to fostering higher-level thinking, language development, problem-solving, and empathy, forming the foundation of social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development.
ELC Fast Facts
- Our ELC program is for children 3 to 5 years old.
- Children turning age 3 by September 1 are eligible to join our preschool program.
- The ELC is composed of mixed-grade classes, allowing for a wider range of play styles, leadership opportunities, and community building.
- Each classroom has two teachers.
Play-Based, Project-Based, Reggio-Inspired.
Our approach, inspired by the Reggio Emilia philosophy, emphasizes student-directed, dynamic, and child-centered learning with these key principles:
Joy and connection are essential to learning.
Curiosity, wonder, and authentic relationships create a warm, caring environment where children thrive.
Exploration drives discovery.
Open-ended, hands-on experiences empower children to explore ideas in multiple ways, helping them develop critical skills.
Children are capable learners.
Every child has unique strengths to contribute, and with thoughtful teacher guidance they can construct their own knowledge.
Teachers act as researchers and co-learners.
Teachers observe children, supporting project development and integrating content and skills.
Children conduct investigations and express their thinking through diverse materials.
This method embodies “The 100 Languages of Children.”
The environment serves as the "third teacher."
Classrooms and outdoor spaces inspire ideas and facilitate discovery.
A Typical ELC Day
