Parent Child Center
A Center of Excellence
Parent Child Center began in 1975 as a model laboratory for the Early Childhood students of Western Technical College and to provide quality day care for students and staff of Western. In 1979, the Center moved to its current location and has continued to provide child care with the highest standards, in combination with the most up-to-date practices for the families it serves and the students training to work with young children. The Center, licensed by the State of Wisconsin, currently provides care for 37 children ages 1-7. It is located on the La Crosse campus in the building known as the Center for Childhood Education.
In 1988, the Center received its first National Accreditation from the National Association for the Education of Young Children by meeting national standards for providing quality child care. During the summer of 2004, the Parent Child Center received its sixth continuous accreditation from NAEYC. To again earn this recognition the Center demonstrated the following:
- Well qualified and trained staff
- Activities appropriate for toddler and preschool children
- Many varied age-appropriate materials
- Compliance with stringent health and safety standards
- Inclusive and respectfully diverse environments
- Opportunities for parent communication and involvement
In the fall of 2004, PCC was selected as a site for the La Crosse School District’s 4-Year-Old Preschool Program.
Our Philosophy
The philosophy of the Parent Child Center is to enhance the development of the child as he/she grows physically, socially, emotionally and intellectually at his/her own individual rate. Our program provides opportunities to make choices and develop independence and a positive self-esteem. We promote the child’s ability to be creative and solve problems.
We encourage children to learn spontaneously and actively through play. Each day is planned to allow learning to happen individually or together in small groups. Activities in the environment include art, music, literature, science, math, and cooking, sensory and outdoor play.
Our teachers strive to respect the dignity, worth and uniqueness of each child and family. We value parents as partners in all aspects of the growth and education of children.
Observation and Assessments
Teachers observe daily and document children’s work, play, behaviors and interactions. Observations are the basis for assessment of the child’s progress. Parents are encouraged to share child observations from home and also contribute to the assessment process.
We will be implementing the Creative Curriculum Assessment Tool as part of our assessment plan for the year. Other components of our assessment include: parent interviews, daily observations, parent-teacher conferences, and making referrals as needed.
Parent–teacher conferences will be held each semester. Conferences provide opportunities to discuss the child’s growth and development, your questions or concerns. Other needs requiring a meeting of parents and staff will be set up on an individual basis.
Staff
The regular teaching staff at Parent Child Center is professionally trained in early childhood education with either Bachelor or Associate degrees. They proclaim life-long careers in child care, allowing the Center to maintain low staff turnover.
The staff continues to take yearly training in First Aid and CPR, Blood-borne Pathogens, Child Abuse, SIDS, Sanitation and other choices for professional development.
Students in the center function as assistant teachers, volunteers or observers. Any one taking classes in the Center for Childhood Education or associated with the Center has undergone a character background check before hire or attending class.
