About Us
The Jean Tyson Child Development Study Center is a family-centered program housed in a facility designed to provide for best practices in early childhood education and to enhance the learning experience for university students. The facility earned a design and construction rating of LEED Gold from the U.S. Green Building Council in 2013, meaning it meets the highest standards for environmental sustainability. Early childhood professionals meet the physical, social, emotional and cognitive needs of children ages eight weeks to five years old. The JTCDSC provides individualized care for infants, toddlers and preschoolers.
Tuition and Fee InformationQuestions about enrollment?
Shelley McNally, Executive Director of Education Programs
(479) 575-6288
U of A educators at the Jean Tyson Child Development Student Center rely on the Reggio Emilia approach to early childhood education. This philosophy has its roots in the Northern Italian town of the same name. The fundamental principles are the understanding that engaging environments establish learning communities within classrooms, the belief that documentation of children's experiences plays a vital role in their learning. Artistic expression also plays a central role in the Reggio Emilia approach. A deep civic commitment to children, democracy, and advocacy embodies the work of Reggio Emilia and inspires many educators around the world. We draw inspiration from the approach and our current curriculum draws from three of the fundamental principles of Reggio Emilia: environment, documentation, and project based learning.
Accreditation
The Jean Tyson Child Development Study Center is accredited by the National Association for Education of Young Children and is a member of the national organization.
Infant and Toddler Program
With smaller group sizes and highly educated, experienced and committed teachers, the Infant/Toddler program provides consistency in the crucial first three years where caring relationships are vitally important.
Preschool Program
With smaller group sizes and highly educated, experienced and committed teachers, the Preschool program provides a balance of support and independence for children three to five years old.