Programs

Concord Children's Center Programs

Our Pre-school and Emerson Infant Toddler programs provide year round early childhood education with childcare for children from 10 weeks through first grade.  Children are enrolled from three mornings (8:30-12:30) up to 5 full days (7:30-6). The minimum enrollment for children 2.9 through 4 years is three mornings, four mornings for 4 to 5 year olds who will be entering Kindergarten the following year. The minimum enrollment for the Emerson Program is three mornings.

Emerson Program

Full and part time care is provided for infants, toddlers and twos in a renovated ranch house across the street from Emerson Hospital.  In addition to the four classrooms, we have a large indoor play space, outdoor decks, and an enclosed play yard behind the house.

At our Emerson and Ripley programs young infants and toddlers who are learning that they can exercise some control over their social and physical world are afforded safe and nurturing spaces in which to grow. Our infants and toddlers acquire new skills and understanding about themselves through play, exploration and experiencing each new day. The routine activities that occupy large parts of the infant and toddlers day offer opportunities for teachers to focus on each child's needs, interests, and growth.

The Ripley Program

The Ripley Program is located at the Concord School Administration building near Concord Center. The program has 2 preschool classes, an infant/toddler class and an after-kindergarten through second grade class. At this location, we have the use of a gymnasium, a small theater, near-by fields and woods, a vegetable and flower garden, and a large playground.

The West Concord Program

The West Concord Program is located at 1300 Main Street. The program consists of 5 preschool classes and 1 after-kindergarten through second grade class. In addition, we have a naturalistic playground, vegetable and flower garden, and multi-purpose room.

Preschool Classrooms

In each preschool classroom, engaging and interactive thematic units capture each child's curiosity and eagerness to learn. Children are provided experiences that build broad and balanced foundations for learning in all content areas; language arts, creative arts, math, science, and social studies. The activities are designed to appeal to all the senses- visual, auditory, and physical. Children are invited to be actively involved in their own learning by asking questions, reflecting upon what they are doing and connecting new knowledge with past experience. At the preschool level there is a strong emphasis on social development. The children are given many opportunities to develop successful social skills. Teachers guide children as they learn how to share, take turns, lead, follow, and be a good friend.  

After-Kindergarten Through Second Grade Program

The After-kindergarten through second grade program is for those children who attend kindergarten, 1st or second grade in the Concord Public Schools.  Children are transported by Concord Public School buses from each elementary school to either the Ripley Program or the West Concord Program. We provide full-day programs for kindergarten and 1st grade children on the public school professional days, vacation days and during the summer.  

Our afternoon program combines opportunities for active and quiet play, for child-initiated and teacher directed curriculum, and for a variety of activities that motivate children to explore and learn. The early childhood focus of our program supports the developmental stage of kindergarten and first grade aged children, reinforcing the social, emotional, and intellectual skills they are mastering.

Download the After K Program Brochure [PDF, 6M]

Summer Program

The summer program is offered in two week sessions from the end of the regular school year in June until the last week in August.  This program is primarily for curently enrolled students, as well as new students enrolling for the coming year. 

Download the Summer Program Brochure

Special Needs

The Concord Children's Center promotes early detection and programming for children with special needs. We enjoy a reciprocal relationship with many area family and child service agencies, such as Early Intervention, the Concord Public Schools and Concord Family Services. We make every effort to include all children in our programs. We will help parents identify special needs, locate testing and supplemental services, if necessary. We realize that this can be a difficult and painful process, but we are convinced that early treatment is essential to the optimal development of each child.