Mardi Gras theme of Children's Place Family Fun Night

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Children's Place Learning Center families and the Western Michigan University community are invited to Family Fun Night at the center from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 17. The theme is Mardi Gras, and the event will feature crafts, games and food. This evening is a great opportunity to get to know families, learn about the new preschool and pre-kindergarten program curricula, extended hours and back-up care.

The Children's Place Learning Center, located in the middle of WMU's campus, is a child care option for children of University students, faculty and staff as well as the Kalamazoo community. WMU Children's Place is an NAEYC-accredited center that partners with the WMU College of Education and Human Development to provide a high-quality educational experience.

Hours and programs

The center is open 7 a.m. until 6 p.m., Monday through Friday, except for University holidays, a recess period in December and two staff training days. In addition to child care for children aged 18 months through 9 years of age, the following programs are available:

• Children between the ages of 33-months and 5 years old may participate in the preschool program. Preschool offers flexibility in scheduling either part time or full time. The program goals align with the readiness skills needed to be successful in kindergarten.
• The pre-kindergarten and the Great Start Readiness Program is available Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. Children are required to attend four to five days each week to take advantage of the pre-kindergarten curriculum, and it follows WMU's academic fall and spring semester calendar. Wrap-around care before and after the pre-K program is available.
• Back-up care is available for unpredictable circumstances such as snow days, unexpected meetings or if a child's regular care provider is unavailable. It is not a drop-in service, and children must be pre-registered.
• Campus Kids Summer Program is a fun and educational way for school-age children to spend the summer. Weekly, themed sessions include field trips, special guests and activities to keep children learning throughout the summer. A child can be signed up for one week or the whole summer.

For more information about WMU Children's Place Learning Center and rates please visit wmich.edu/childcare or call (269) 387-2277.

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