Our Mission

To provide safe, high quality, educational child care environments for children and their families. To accomplish our non-profit mission we offer: developmentally appropriate curriculum, experienced & professional staff, and an inclusive nurturing learning experience where families are welcome.

Philosophy

SCDC strives to provide consistent environments in which children can discover their own capabilities and creativity. Children are encouraged to develop self-discipline and a respect for others. We maintain a non-sexist, non-racist setting for children's learning. We believe it is important to enhance the development of a positive self-image in each child. We accomplish this by providing warmth and nurturing in a growth facilitating environment rich with opportunities to learn and discover.

Our goal is to provide parents with an open, welcoming atmosphere to encourage and promote parent involvement and parent peace of mind. We work to develop a one-to-one relationship with each child and parent, communicating to the child that they are "cared about" as well as "cared for". We accomplish this by providing the best suited staff; qualified and dedicated to understanding the needs of the children and families.

Further, we seek to extend the children's environment beyond the classroom and into the community.

We are committed to advocating for all children, reaching out into the community and the state to advocate for high quality care for all families.

It is the policy of Salem Child Development Center that no person shall be discriminated against by reason of race, color, religion, disability, sex, age or national origin. SCDC accepts all children that are able to function within staff ratio and within the environments we maintain.

Creative Curriculum

SCDC uses "The Creative Curriculum" and "STEM" for all age groups. A comprehensive, developmentally appropriate curriculum includes objectives to support all children's learning and development. The Creative Curriculum provides responsive care for children in many ways. Building a trusting relationship with a child.

Providing individualized care
Creating environments that support and encourage exploration
Ensuring children's safety and health
Developing partnerships with families
Observing and documenting children's development in order to plan for each child and the group
Recognizing the importance of social-emotional development
Appreciating cultural, family and individual differences
Taking advantage of every opportunity to build a foundation for lifelong learning
Supporting dual-language learners
Including children with disabilities in all aspects of the program
STEM engages children in skills that increase learning in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics