Child Development Center

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Child Development Centers (CDCs) provide full- and part-day early care and education (ECE) services for children ages 6 weeks through preschool (or until the child enters kindergarten) in a center-based learning environment.

Both centers are accredited or pursuing accreditation from the National Association for the Education of Young Children. The Center also holds Department of War certification and participates in the USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program for breakfasts, lunches and afternoon snacks.

Early Learning Matters (ELM) Curriculum

The ELM curriculum offers a comprehensive, developmentally appropriate approach to meaningful learning for children from birth through five years. Features of ELM include:

  • a whole child focus on skills that bolster school readiness and life success;
  • developmentally sequenced activities that embed strategies for individualization;
  • evidence-informed, friendly-to-use resources for program staff and families; and
  • training tools to support direct care staff with different professional backgrounds.
     

Our program is committed to playful learning as the foundation of children’s development. The ELM curriculum incorporates learning through play across all settings and activities. Periods of open-ended play can support rich learning experiences, while adults guide children by extending and elaborating on their play. Each activity is intentionally designed to promote learning through play. For example, when children pretend to cook, they practice following instructions, measuring, counting, sharing, and caring for one another. All learning experiences, whether child-initiated or teacher-guided, allow children to explore, practice skills, and build knowledge through play.

ELIGIBILITY

CDC facilities are open to children of active-duty service members, active reservists, Department of War employees and DoW contractors. The sponsor must provide proof of eligibility and employment.

APPLY FOR CHILD CARE

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Military families seeking child care within Naval District Washington can make a request online at MilitaryChildCare.com. MilitaryChildCare.com is a DoW, centralized website which allows families to search for and request care, manage their requests, and update their profile online, making it easier to find child care. Simply create an account online at MilitaryChildCare.com. Then search the system for the child care options that best fit your needs and submit your request(s). The program will contact you when space becomes available. To get started, visit MilitaryChildCare.com. For questions/support, call 855-696-2934.  

Hourly Care

Make payments, hourly care reservations and so much more online through CYP Online Services! Hourly care is available on a first-come, first-served basis for children 6 weeks to 12 years old. The cost is $8 per hour.