Family

We honor family members as the child’s most important teachers. Thus, the CDFC is supportive, not substitutive of parenting. Parents are encouraged to participate in the education of their children. Observation windows and video-monitoring systems provide opportunities for witnessing children during their daily activities. Adult-sized chairs are provided for comfort while visiting. Our open-door philosophy is vital to the relationship. Newsletters, calendars, special events, assessments, and conferences are used to keep the lines of communication open.

Staff

The Child and Family Development Center promotes diversity among the children and staff. Each classroom has one full-time child development specialist with professional training who plans and manages the daily program. Our support staff includes UMES students who are pursuing careers in fields related to young children.

Teacher Development

Along with the quality childcare and education we provide, we also serve as a demonstration site for undergraduate students in the Department of Human Ecology’s Child Development program. Students are placed at the CFDC throughout their matriculation at UMES for various practical experiences including observation, lesson and activity planning, implementation, and assessment.