Frequently Asked Questions for LECC child care

We follow the Early Learning Matters (ELM) curriculum developed by Purdue University. ELM promotes positive outcomes in all areas of development from birth to age 5 years. It is based on the latest research on child development and best practices in early education and care. ELM offers a comprehensive, developmentally appropriate approach to meaningful learning for all children.

• Whole child focus on skills that bolster school readiness and life success
• Developmentally sequenced activities that embed strategies for individualizing
• Evidence-informed, friendly-to-use resources for classroom staff and families
• Training tools to support direct care staff with different professional backgrounds

At the heart of the ELM curriculum are activity plans that build on children's pathways of development in five infant/toddler areas. The plans support growth and development with a range of active learning opportunities that include careful attention to differences in children's abilities and interests.

Gulf Shores Presbyterian Church provides a great location and safe environment for our Lil ELMs with a magnificent playground. We have indoor and outdoor cameras. 

We charge based on the slot provided, not attendance. High quality care is imperative to growing our children. The enrollment fee is $220. Weekly tuition rates are based on age and staff to child ratios. We require $150 supplies fee twice a year in January and June.

Weekly tuition rates with staff to child ratios: 

Seeds: 1's: $265

Sprouts: K2: $250

Trees: K3: $250

We do not accept Childcare South.

Enrollment is based on the availability in each classroom and teacher to child ratios. To apply to enroll your child, please fill out an enrollment form on our ProCare site. We will select the most suitable matches after an interview process. We will also need a copy of your child's immunization records. 

 7:00 AM - 8:15 AM: Arrival and Free Play

• Children arrive and are greeted by staff
• Free play with toys, books, and activity centers

8:15 AM - 8:30 AM: Morning Snack

• Nutritious snack
• Social time with peers

8:30 AM - 9:30 AM: Outdoor Play (Wednesday Water Play)

• Supervised play on playground equipment
• Organized games and free play

9:30 AM - 10:00 AM: Morning Circle Time

• Welcome song and greeting
• Calendar and weather discussion

10:00 AM - 10:30 AM: Learning Centers

• Rotating centers for literacy, math, science, and art
• Small group or individual activities

10:30 AM - 11:00 AM: Art and Craft Time

• Creative projects with various materials
• Fine motor skill development 

11:00 AM - 11:30 AM: Lunch

• Nutritious lunch 
• Social time with peers

11:30 AM - 12:00 PM: Brush Teeth/Story Time

• Relaxing stories or quiet activities
• Preparation for nap time

12:00 PM - 2:00 PM: Nap/Rest Time

• Rest period with mats
• Quiet environment with soft music or white noise

2:00 PM - 2:30 PM: Wake-Up and Snack Time

• Gentle wake-up routine
• Healthy snack 

2:30 PM - 3:00 PM: Music and Movement

• Singing, dancing, and musical instruments
• Gross motor skill development

3:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Outdoor Play

• Supervised play on playground equipment
• Organized games and free play

4:00 PM - 4:30 PM: Afternoon Circle Time

• Recap of the day’s activities
• Storytime or group discussion

4:30 PM - 5:15 PM: Free Play and Pick-Up Time

• Choice of indoor play activities or learning centers
• Individual or small group interactions
• Parent arrival and child pick-up
• Staff available for brief updates on the child’s day

Note: Adjustments may be made to accommodate weather.

Following health and safety best practices is an important way to provide quality early care and education for young children. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the American Public Health Association (APHA), and the National Resource Center for Health and Safety in Child Care and Early Education (NRC) have released the Fourth Edition of Caring for Our Children: National Health and Safety Performance Standards; Guidelines for Early Care and Education Programs. We follow the national standards that represent the best evidence, expertise, and experience in the country on quality health and safety practices and policies that should be followed in today's early care and education settings. https://nrckids.org/CFOC 

We follow the most current version of Managing Infectious Diseases in Child Care and Schools published by the American Academy of Pediatrics. It provides information for caregivers, and child care directors on how to prevent and manage infectious diseases. The sixth edition of the guide has been completely updated and revised.