What is Early Learning Center?

Early Learning Center was incorporated in January 1975, for the purpose of providing a unique preschool program for children in the Washtenaw County area. We are a traditional half-day preschool program that serves children 2 1/2 to 5 years of age. We have the Caterpillar class that is for children 2 1/2 to 3 years of age, and the Butterfly class is for children ages 4 to 5.  

Our preschool is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization and is operated by a Board of Trustees consisting of parents of present or former students. We are licensed by the State of Michigan and have a high quality rating (or 4 star rating) from Michigan's Great Start to Quality Program.

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Our Mission

​Early Learning Center provides a safe and nurturing learning environment for preschool-aged children of all cultural backgrounds and abilities. We believe that learning takes place primarily through exploratory play. We offer a variety of both directed and non-directed activities to encourage children to develop a strong sense of curiosity, self-esteem, and independence.

Our Philosophy

The preschool program at Early Learning Center reflects the belief that learning takes place primarily through exploratory play activities. It is our belief that a good preschool program offers both teacher-directed activities and child-directed activities.  Teacher-directed activities allow us to interact, direct and engage with your child. Child-directed activities encourage your child to plan and think about what they are doing. Because our staff also believes that children are happiest and most productive when given order and limits, but with the freedom for individual expression, the daily schedule alternates structured group activities with periods when the children are encouraged to select their own activities and playmates.