About Us
We know that parents have many options, and that they only want what is best for their children. There is lots of information available about what children need in the early years, and it can be confusing for families. On one hand children need play-based experiences and open-ended, creative opportunities with multiple entry points…On the other hand, parents feel increasing pressure to build skills and prepare children for school. Families feel caught in this divide, fostering an either/or mentality that is counterproductive to children’s growth and development…
Good childcare is not only for children, but for parents as well. Parents receive the knowledge and support they need to raise their children with love and understanding. At the Cullman Child Development Center, we strongly believe in this link between parents and childcare providers. With children spending a good share of their day with us, we know that we must partner with parents in the child rearing process. Consequently, our highly trained staff is sensitive to their part in influencing the emotional, cognitive, social and physical development of each child entrusted to our care. Parents are encouraged to be involved with their child’s care as much as possible, and so the Cullman Center has a unique, open door policy that allows parents to drop in any time of the day. We have many family activities throughout the year as well as an active PTO, a parents committee, and a parent representative on our Board of Directors.
At the Cullman Center, we believe there is another approach – a way for teachers and children to have it all…This approach blends best practices from some specific philosophies that are the foundation of early education, but have become less prominent over time.
Parents’ Peace of Mind
The Cullman Center emphasizes child safety and security. The Director’s office is located at the entrance to the Center, which allows for added security. There is also an electronic door system, which can only be activated with a Cullman Center-issued pass code unique to each parent. Other safety features include a heated sidewalk, which melts ice and snow in winter, and glass inserts in all doors, preventing door-related injuries.
Serving All Ages
The Cullman Center provides services to children between the ages of 6 weeks and 12 years. There is before and after-school care, an in-house summer program for children ages 5-8, and a summer camp program for children ages 8-12. We offer a unique, cognitively oriented, developmentally appropriate, success based curriculum to prepare children for life. We are open from 5:45am to 6:00pm, Monday through Friday.