About Us

 

Program Description

Philosophy

The Cal Poly Psychology and Child Development Preschool Learning Lab provides a high-quality preschool environment that supports the developmental needs of the whole child in a warm, nurturing, play-based environment.  A focal point of the Preschool Learning Lab curriculum is to offer innovative inquiry-based learning experiences that support children’s natural interest and engagement in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).  This curriculum unfolds within a context in which Cal Poly students have opportunities to apply their knowledge of child development as they interact with children and families. 

Students' efforts in these areas are guided by the Director and a Master Teacher, who assist students in using research and theory in child development to inform their interactions with children and families. The ratio of children to adults is low. This facilitates close communication with families, and allows us to plan for the needs and interests of individual children.

Laboratory Component

In addition to serving as a site for hands-on experience working with children, the Preschool Learning Lab also facilitates faculty and student research on children's learning and development. Situated within the College of Liberal Arts, the Preschool Learning Lab serves as a hub for a campus-wide network of faculty and students to engage in research and development activities related to young children’s STEM learning. Children who enroll in this program participate in these various research activities supervised by Cal Poly faculty/staff.

Location

The Preschool Learning Lab is housed at the center of the Cal Poly campus in Building 38 (Math & Sciences), Room 125.

Current Schedule

Monday-Friday

8:30 a..m.-4:30 p.m. (Full Day)

8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. (Half Day)

The Preschool Learning Lab is open during the academic year will observe all academic holidays as well as Winter, Spring and Summer breaks.

Contact Information

Further information about the Cal Poly Preschool Learning Lab can be obtained by contacting:

Dr. Patty Clarkson, Director

(805) 756-2220

e-mail: preschoollabadmin@calpoly.edu