Early education provides the foundation for lifelong success, growth, and learning. Hitchcock Woods Early Learning Center, founded in 1983, provides a strong and complete program for children from as early as 6 weeks to 12 years of age. This spectrum of care and education is not common and very valuable, providing families with consistency, stability, and quality development in the most important years of a child’s life.
A Proven Legacy of Care and Education
With more than 40 years of tri-county service, Hitchcock Woods Early Learning Center has touched the lives of more than 1,250 children. To date, an estimated 80% of South Carolina working parents use some type of childcare, the South Carolina Institute for Child Success reports, based on the most recent data available in communities. Hitchcock Woods fills this necessary requirement with a complete range of programs designed to the stages of child development.
The educational odyssey of the center begins at 6 weeks of age, serving working parents who need infant care and who want a reliable, supportive setting. It continues through kindergarten and after-school care to age 12, offering a continuous path of education with fewer transition anxieties between providers.
Age-Specific Programs Tailored for Development
Developmentally appropriate programming enhances each age group:
- Infants (6 weeks to 12 months): Emphasis on sensory development, emotional bonding, and safe exploration.
- Toddler (1 to 2 years): Basic language development, motor skill refinement, and social skills.
- Preschool (3 to 4 years): Adult-led learning, cognitive ability, and pre-reading and pre-writing skills.
- Pre-K and K (5 to 6 years): Charter-accredited curriculum, one-on-one instruction, and readiness for an elementary education.
- School-age children (6 to 12 years): Enrichment and afterschool programs that concentrate on providing homework support as well as creative development.
The National Institute for Early Education Research (NIEER) points out that high-quality preschool programs result in enhanced academic performance, less grade repetition, and higher high school graduation rates. Hitchcock Woods’ structured but adaptable model is consistent with these established gains.
Small Class Sizes and Long-Term Educators
One of the center’s best assets is its committed teaching staff. A number of educators have been employed by the school for more than 30 years, providing extensive experience and consistency. Such stability is important, particularly for younger children, who love consistency.
Having small class sizes often below the national standard of 15:1 student-to-teacher ratio for preschool programs, Hitchcock Woods can provide more individualized attention and faster recognition of each child’s needs and abilities.
Parent Partnerships and Community Trust
Feedback from families consistently reflects trust and satisfaction with the center’s services. According to survey data from the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), 90% of parents value open communication with their child’s educators. Hitchcock Woods prioritizes this through regular updates, parent-teacher conferences, and community engagement events.
Conclusion
Hitchcock Woods Early Learning Center is the epitome of what early childhood education should be holistic, predictable, and thoroughly nurturing. From the initial weeks of infancy to the early teen years, children are cared for, taught, and encouraged to flourish. With outstanding outcomes and a lengthy history of being a part of the community, the center is still a cornerstone for families in their pursuit of long-term educational consistency and excellence.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What ages does Hitchcock Woods Early Learning Center serve?
A: The center enrolls children from 6 weeks to 12 years old.
Q2: Is the kindergarten program state-certified?
A: Yes, the center provides a chartered kindergarten program with one-to-one instruction.
Q3: What is the student-to-teacher ratio?
A: Class sizes are smaller than typical national averages, frequently below 15:1, which is common in many early childhood settings.
Q4: Do the staff have long-term experience?
A: Most of the staff have been at the center for 10 to 40 years, creating a stable and seasoned setting.
Q5: Is there after-school care offered for older children?
A: Yes, enrichment and after-school programs are offered for children up to age 12.
Resources
- South Carolina Institute for Child Success: www.instituteforchildsuccess.org
- National Institute for Early Education Research (NIEER): www.nieer.org
- National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC): www.naeyc.org
- Hitchcock Woods Early Learning Center: www.hitchcockwoodsctr.com/about-us
