OUR PHILOSOPHY

The early years of growth are the most crucial in a child’s life. We have designed our Centers to promote a loving atmosphere in which the children can develop cognitively, emotionally, socially and physically at their own pace. “Learning by doing” is an integral part of our program, and encourages children to be curious. The discoveries they make give them positive self-esteem, which is a developmental milestone they carry with them their entire lives. We accept every child for who they are and recognize their unique abilities. We believe in early education and want to see each child grow and achieve their very best. With us, the children know they are safe and loved. We strive to be their “home away from home.”

BRIEF HISTORY

Clarence Center Child Care, Inc at 5990 Goodrich Rd. and Clarence Center Preschool, Inc. at 6260 Goodrich Rd. have been a part of the local community for more than 15 years. Both Centers are licensed by the New York State Department of Child and Family Services. We provide a warm, loving and challenging program for all our children from 18 months to 11 years of age. Our programs main focus is helping each child reach their full potential at a pace that is comfortable for each individual. Our trained and caring staff implements a well planned schedule of various activities to enrich your child’s experience. This will give them a positive outlook on their own abilities, and help them to succeed in their daily challenges. Both Centers offer full or half day programs that include snacks and a hot lunch prepared by our on staff cooks.

Both Clarence Center Child Care, Inc. and Clarence Center Preschool, Inc. are owned and operated by Jean & Dale Van Kuren. The building in which the Child Care Center is located has been in the Van Kuren family for over 40 years. They have transformed the inside to be appropriate as a child care center but, at the same time have left all the warmth and charm of the original woodwork. This makes for a very cozy, home like atmosphere.

In 1998 they purchased the former Olde Lamplighter Restaurant, which was totally remodeled into Clarence Center Preschool, Inc. The Preschool provides a warm atmosphere for ages 18 months to 5 years old, which allows the Child Care Center to focus on the School Age program, K to 5th grade age groups. They have personally picked a dedicated, supportive and nurturing staff to assist them in their successful adventure in child care. Dale and Jean have five children of their own as well as five grandchildren, most of which have attended both Centers. They are also community oriented as members of the Clarence Chamber of Commerce, Clarence Center Community Association, the new "Meet in the Center Merchants Assoc." and the Child Care Resource Network. Choosing a quality child care provider is a very important decision for your family. We hope that you will consider our Centers for your child care needs.