EARLY LEARNING CENTER

“…Our image of the child is rich in potential, strong, powerful, competent and, most of all, connected to other adults and other children ..”
Loris Malaguzzi

With a long tradition of providng high-quality, professional childcare to diverse populations, we offer children a safe, nurturing space to grow and flourish and families a welcoming, supportive community.

Conveniently located in West Newton close to I-95, the Mass Pike and the MBTA commuter rail, (directions) our large, free-standing building features large bright classrooms, carpeted indoor gross motor space, a full size gym, an art studio, library and atrium garden. We enjoy outdoor space that includes playing fields, playgrounds, sand play and a spray pool. The Early Learning Center (ELC) provides full year, full day (8:00 am – 5:00 pm*) child care for children 3 months – kindergarten. (*Our program hours have been reduced from 10.5 hours per day to 9 hours per day have to allow time for COVID- 19 health and safety classroom and building cleaning and sanitation protocols.)

At Family ACCESS, we believe that parents are partners, children are competent and teachers are researchers and educators. Low ratios and well-trained, experienced teachers allow us to build strong, trusting relationships with children and families. Curriculum is based on children’s interests and is individualized for each child.

Enrollment is on a space available, rolling basis with an admissions concentration in November through February for a September start date (Click here to learn more).

Highlights
  • Low teacher-child rations facilitate individualized attention. (lower ratio during COVID to increase safety)
  • Inquiry and play-based emergent curriculum.
  • Monthly development for our educated and committed teachers.
  • Collaborative teacher-parent communication
  • Increase sanitation, cleaning, social distancing, use of protective gear and strict protocols observed to increase health and safety
Indoor and Outdoor Facilities
  • Large, bright, expansive preschool classrooms.
  • Beautiful outdoor space.
  • Large, safe indoor gross motor room.
  • Full-court gymnasium.
  • Playground designed for children ages 6m-5yrs.
Convenient
  • Full-day, full-year program
  • Location: 492 Waltham St. West Newton, MA
  • Hours: 8:00 am – 5pm, Monday – Friday (for 2020-2021)

  • (2020-2021 School Calendar)

    Check out our 2020-2021 School Calendar Click here

ELC PROGRAMS

Infant Child Care

Our infant program offers spacious, safe classrooms with educated, well-trained staff.
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Toddler Child Care

Our four toddler classrooms are designed to allow plenty of opportunity for exploration.
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Preschool Program

Our Preschool and Pre-K Programs offer a stimulating environment for your child.
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Our Philosophy

We believe that play, within the context of healthy relationships, is the primary way in which young children grow and mature into happy, productive students ready for a lifetime of learning. In the Early Learning Center (ELC), playful interactions with sensitive adults, their peers and an enriching environment enable children to learn about the world, themselves and each other. As children play, they test their ideas, learn new skills, develop strategies for problem-solving, acquire knowledge and communicate their understanding. As they play, they learn to master their minds, bodies and emotions. This cornerstone of the ELC’s approach to early education is supported by current research on child development. A report by the American Academy of Pediatrics states, “…free and unstructured play is healthy and – in fact – essential for helping children reach important social, emotional, and cognitive developmental milestones as well as helping them manage stress and become resilient.” …. Read more

NEXT STEPS

Enroll

Enroll your child in one of our ELC programs
Click here

Schedule a Tour

You encourage you to visit us and meet our teachers Click to schedule

FAQ

Answers to questions frequently asked by our parents
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Contact Us

Inquire about our child care programs
Click here