children photo bar

Seeing Your Children as Little Works of Art

Parent guide

Parent conferences

One parent/teacher conference is scheduled each semester. This conference gives staff members an opportunity to share their observations with you regarding your child's development. Additional conferences can be arranged by either the parent or teacher as the need arises.

Family participation

We welcome you anytime you wish to visit, however we encourage you to come before or after nap time. If you would like to share a meal or snack let us know in advance and we'll plan for the extra meal.

Outdoor play

Daily outdoor activity is very important for young children and is a regularly planned daily activity. We feel that a child who is well enough to be in the center is well enough to play outdoors. This provides the fresh air and movement needed daily for your child's general well-being and healthy development. You can help your child enjoy outdoor activities by making sure that he/she is properly dressed for the weather. In winter, this includes boots, warm coat, sweater, snow pants, mittens and hat.

Rest time

All children in the center participate in rest time in the early afternoon. Each child will have a cot or mat and will be encouraged to rest quietly. Each child needs to have his or her own bedding and a pillow case in which to store it. Children are welcome to bring security objects from home if needed at rest time.

Field trips

Occasionally, we go on walks or visit different areas on campus. There is always a teacher who remains at the center to greet arriving children. Unfortunately, it is too difficult for a center with flexible scheduling, such as ours, to take more involved field trips.

 

WMU Children's Place Learning Center
Western Michigan University
Kalamazoo MI 49008-5228 USA
(269) 387-2277 | (269) 387-2391 Fax
childrens-place@wmich.edu