Our philosophy is based on the child development theories of Erik Erickson, John Dewey, Arnold Gesell, Jean Piaget, and Lev Vygotsky. We use a variety of curriculum models; including constructivism, project approach, storybook journey, developmental interaction, and theme immersion. For more information about theorists and/or curriculum models, please contact our Director, Cara Melland at cmelland@familydevelopmentcenter.org.

Overall, we are guided by current early childhood research and developmentally appropriate practices. To enable the achievement of the mission, Discovery Learning Center follows the curriculum guidelines listed below. 

Our Curriculum

Our curriculum focuses on important skill-building, such as personality growth in character and value development, conceptual knowledge and aesthetic development. We also focus on building beginners' skills in important subjects such as, science, math, social student, emergent literacy, and conceptual knowledge. Physical development plays an important role in our curriculum as well. 

Standards and important guidelines we follow include:

• Colorado Early Learning and Development Guidelines  
• Early Learning and Development Guidelines
• Colorado Department of Education Academic Standards
• National Association for the Education of Young Children Accreditation Criteria
• National Association for the Education of Young ChildrenCode of Ethical Conduct and Statement of Commitment
• Proven, research-based, nationally accepted early childhood education standards

The Core Components of our program include three important rules. Take care of yourself, take care of each other, and take care of Discovery. We pride ourselves on professional and well-trained staff and parent involvement. Through these principles, we grow competent, confident, and caring children.

As Competent Children, students will be capable, knowledgeable, experienced, skilled and proficient in curriculum content appropriate to their age and individual development.

As Confident Children, students will be assured in their demeanor, assertive in their interactions with others, and certain of their skills. We work to ensure Discovery children are secure in their environment, convinced of their abilities, and self-possessed of their emotions.

As Caring Children, students will exhibit kind and thoughtful, gentle and considerate behavior. We expect helpful and compassionate treatment of others, and for our students to express concern and sensitive behaviors toward other children and adults.

Discovery Learning Center is a Universal Preschool (UPK) Colorado Provider. UPK helps families by providing children the opportunity to attend state-funded voluntary preschool. Click here to download the PDF for more info.

Focus on Safety and Wellbeing

We are committed to maintaining the high standards of early childhood education while focusing on our vision: “Children experience joy, laughter, and a sense of wonder and adventure every day,” which defines our center.

Our dedicated teachers are eager to welcome new friends into our classrooms and ensure that every child receives the quality education and care they deserve.

Safety is of the utmost importance to the well-being of our children, families, and staff. To address a parent's question regarding safety plans and procedures, we have included some information below to help you understand how we prepare teachers and staff, along with relevant details from your parent handbook.

Safety Policies and Trainings

Mandated Reporting: Every employee at Family Development Center: Discovery Learning Center and Newborn Network is a mandated reporter as per the State of Colorado guidelines. This means that we are legally obligated to report any suspicion of child abuse or neglect. For more information on mandated reporting and who is considered a mandated reporter, please visit Colorado CWTS Mandated Reporter Training and Colorado Department of Education - Health and Safety Requirements.

Annual Training: All staff members undergo annual training to ensure compliance with mandated reporting laws. Failure to report suspicions of child abuse or neglect may result in legal consequences, including fines and imprisonment. For details, please refer to Colorado Office of the Attorney General - Mandatory Reporting.

Professional Development: During our professional development sessions, we regularly review safety and emergency procedures. These sessions are designed to equip our staff with the knowledge, rights, responsibilities, and expectations necessary to maintain a safe environment for all children.

Tips for teaching body safety from Brighter World CAC: https://brighterworldcac.org/get-support/