The Early Learning Center of Woodbury (ELC), on Bear Hill Road, was founded in 1972 by Kathleen G. Cosgriff. Located on two spacious acres, the school is housed in a former barn, which has been transformed into a warm, creative, open environment for children.

Accreditation - ELC is accredited by the National Academy of Early Childhood Programs.

Staff - The Director, Kathleen G. Cosgriff has a MS degree in Education, and is certified by the Connecticut State Department of Education to teach public school from pre-K through high school. Her experiences include three years teaching in New Milford Public Schools as well as several years teaching in remedial areas in local school systems. Since she founded ELC, Mrs. Cosgriff has been its director as well as a teacher in every session. Teachers all have college degrees, certification and teaching experience. Each teacher has served an internship at ELC, and our staff attends professional meetings and workshops throughout the year.

Admission - The Early Learning Center of Woodbury has an open admission policy and accepts children three to five years. Admission is determined on first come basis with consideration given to former ELC families and with an effort to maintain a balance of boys and girls. Applications from currently enrolled children are accepted during January for the following year. Admission to the general public begins February 1. A non-refundable application fee must accompany each application.

Curriculum - Our curriculum is based on the principle of helping a child prepare for the future by satisfying his current needs and providing enriching experiences. Music, Art, Language Experiences, Pre-Reading Skills, Math Concepts, Science, Gross and Fine Motor Activities, Sand and Water Play, Animal Care, Cooking and Nature are a part of our expanding curriculum. We are well equipped with video recorders, slide and overhead projectors, a computer, record, tape, CD and DVD players, and current software.

Philosophy and Goals - ELC is committed to the encouragement of continuous growth and development of each child, according to his or her individual needs and potential. Teachers encourage each youngster to develop independence, creativity, self-confidence, a strong, positive self-image and promote each child’s enthusiasm for learning. Children are gently guided to work and play independently, within small groups as well as within the entire class.

Programs - Two, three and five half-day programs are available. Tuesday and Thursday mornings are limited to three year olds. Tuesday and Thursday afternoons are open to three and four year olds. Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings are limited to four and five year olds. Three or five day afternoon programs are available for the older children. The morning sessions are from 9 to 11:30; the afternoon sessions from 12:30 to 3:00.

For further information, please contact:

Mrs. Kathleen G. Cosgriff, Director
203.263.5450