Welcome to the College of DuPage Early Childhood Education and Care Demonstration Center Web Site!

The Louise M. Beem Early Childhood Education and Care Demonstration Center plays an integral role in the Early Childhood Education and Care Program at College of DuPage. Each classroom models, for college students, an environment where young children grow and learn.

The Center serves as an example of quality care and education for young children and their families. It is accredited by the National Academy of Early Childhood Programs and is licensed by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services. The Kindergarten is license-exempt, and is a component of the college’s Early Childhood Education and Care program.

All classes are taught by lead teachers with bachelor’s degrees or higher, as well as teachers with associate’s degrees in Early Childhood Education or Child Care and Development. Classroom teachers are assisted by practicum students who are completing courses at C.O.D. in the Early Childhood Education and Care program.

Goals and Program Description
By planning a developmentally appropriate environment, the Early Childhood Education and Care Demonstration Center and Kindergarten provide a setting where children feel significant and successful. The program’s philosophy emphasizes the value of play in the development of young children. Through carefully planned and implemented learning experiences, children gain knowledge, skills and attitudes that support their development. In addition, children have the opportunity to make decisions and solve problems with the guidance of teachers. The program is designed to meet and enhance the development of the whole child; physically, emotionally, socially, intellectually and creatively. The curriculum includes music, science, art, math, literacy, cooking, large and small muscle activities, games, out door play, and campus field trips.

Marsha Pobst,
Center Manager
(630) 942-4223
pobstm@cod.edu

MISSION
The mission of the Early Childhood Education and Care Demonstration Center is to provide, in conjunction with the ECEC academic program, a high quality early childhood education and care center in which students can observe and implement best practices as part of their academic course work.