The Child Development Center accepts applications at any time from parents who are interested in placing their children in our programs, although early enrollment does not give priority. A child's actual placement in the Center depends upon (1) the availability of an opening, (2) the age eligibility of the child, (3) classroom diversity and (4) the individual needs of each child and family. Enrollment decisions are made by the Director in consultation with the CDC staff. The enrollment process for the following year begins in February and continues until all spaces are filled. Preference is given to current CDC families and Keene State College faculty, staff, and students, after which new applications are processed.

Applications may be submitted at any time with a $10 application fee. Families are invited to visit the Center by appointment, meet the staff, and discuss programs and available enrollment options. Current families are given the opportunity to re-enroll for the following year in February. Any unfilled slots are then offered to new families.

If you are interested in applying, follow this process:

1. Read through the CDC brochure. We work with college students in the Early Childhood Program engaging in current best practices in this laboratory early childhood education setting. Our philosophy, mission, and programs are available to read and we invite you to learn what we offer before you apply.
2. Read the important information below. This includes our rates, hours, and calendar. Because we are at Keene State College, we operate on a calendar that may not meet your childcare needs. Please be sure to read this prior to applying.
3. Request an application by calling 358-2233. After completing it, please send it with the $10 application fee to Child Development Center, 299 Main St. - Suite 2503, Keene, NH 03435-2503.

Important Information

We operate on a calendar that reflects some qualities of both the Keene State College and the Keene School District, such as:

• Open late August through mid-June
• Closed for three weeks during the December Holiday Season
• Closed for one week in March during the Keene State College spring break
• We are not open during the summer.

Children may be enrolled in one of the following configurations:

• Monday, Wednesday, and Friday
• Tuesday and Thursday
• Monday through Friday

These configurations apply to the Toddler, Young Preschool, and Older Preschool classrooms. Infants are enrolled for a full week (Monday through Friday) configuration. Please see the Infant Page for more information about their classroom.

Student assignments often change from semester to semester. At the end of spring semester, the CDC closes for one day to prepare for May and June. At this time, on of the CDC staff Facilitating Teachers ends her work with children. Students, often graduates, experienced in early childhood education and care are hired to work with the remaining permanent staff for the remainder of the year. We make every effort to make the transition time smooth for the children, staff, and families.

Hours
We are open 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Parents may drop off children and pick them up within those hours, though each program has recommended drop off and pick up times to allow children to benefit from the curriculum and peer interaction.

Application Form

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