The diverse group of children attending the Early Childhood Laboratory School reside in Amherst and the surrounding communities. All children are welcome; it is not necessary to be affiliated with the university to enroll your child. Enrolled children range in age from 2 years 9 months to 5 years. The Lab School currently operates two classrooms: one serves 16 children, 2.9 to 3.6 years old. The other serves 18 children, 3.6 to 5 years old.

The staff at ECLS have been inspired by the educators of the internationally acclaimed municipally run schools of Reggio Emilia, Italy. The first, and most fundamental guiding principle in the Reggian approach to early education acknowledges that children are "rich, powerful, and competent."

ECLS educators strongly support this belief and are committed to helping children reach their fullest potential. As competent learners, children at the ECLS are invited to work with "real" materials such as cameras, carpentry tools, and everyday household utensils. There is a strong emphasis on making home and school connections.

Throughout the day children are provided many opportunities for small and large group interaction, as well as quiet and active play. Children at the Early Childhood Laboratory School are invited to challenge themselves in creative ways. In-depth curriculum projects encourage children to develop their problem solving abilities and express themselves with art materials, dance, puppets, and skit-making. Children and teachers utilize whatever "language" may facilitate an inquiry and discovery.

Room 4 Children

Room 5 Children