Sarah Lawrence College

The Early Childhood Center

Frequently Asked Questions

Academics
Lifelong Learning Early Childhood Center
The Early Childhood Center Our Philosophy Program, Schedules & Tuition Fieldwork: Student Assistants Frequently Asked Questions Who We Are How to Apply
Summer Programs Pre-College Extension Signature Learning Community Au Pairs Precollege Student Life

  • There are many attributes that set the Early Childhood Center apart from other programs:

    • The Early Childhood Center is a Sarah Lawrence College laboratory school.
    • Our location on the Sarah Lawrence College campus gives us a wonderful backdrop to explore, and a natural extension to the classrooms.
    • Our idea of school readiness may differ from that of  other programs. It involves children working from wherever they are, mastering that stage, and taking the next steps with patience and the encouragement of the adults in the classroom. These are the “readiness” skills that can’t be taught. They must be modeled and practiced and experienced over and over. Children who accomplish these skills are truly ready for whatever comes next. Learn more about our progressive education approach

    Simply put, the Early Childhood Center is a place where children can be children.

  • For an in-depth look at what it means to be a lab school, please see: What is a Laboratory School?

  • The ECC has a Parents Association (PA), which each family belongs to as part of the ECC community. Parents can choose to be as active as they are comfortable.

    Parents are welcome to visit the classrooms, but it is with the individual child’s interest in mind.

  • Children can start the ECC at any age, although starting earlier gives children priority placement for subsequent classes.

  • The Early Childhood Center provides a varied pattern of morning classes. Younger children attend two or three mornings per week, and older children attend five times per week.

    A master teacher of early childhood education, a graduate fieldwork student assistant teacher, and several fieldwork student assistants facilitate each class.

    Classes are in session from early September to mid-May, in accordance with the College's academic calendar. A separate one month summer session is also offered. The ECC is closed during all College breaks.

    For more information, meet our team and review our programs and schedules.

  • For detailed information, please see the tuition page.

  • For families who wish to learn more about our programs and pedagogy we offer individual parent tours beginning in late October.

    Learn more about scheduling a visit and applying

  • The Early Childhood Center welcomes all families. The ECC aims to reflect the world community and is committed to diversity among staff, teachers, and students.

    The most important criteria for acceptance is an understanding of the ECC pedagogy and viewing it as a good fit for your child and family.

  • Our rolling admissions period opens in October of the preceding year you wish to enroll your child and concludes when we reach full enrollment — typically in the spring. However, we welcome inquiries at all times and accept applications as space allows.

    Learn more about how to apply.

I could not dream of a more perfect place for my four old year daughter. The attentiveness of the teachers and the staff to make sure the children are growing at their own pace and their work to  empower them to make their own choices is just a few of the things that make this place special. It’s really more of a community of which I feel blessed to be part of.

Donella Sanchez Former ECC Parent of Two Children