Children are cared for in a setting where small class sizes are emphasized and one-on-one care is offered at Hitchcock Woods Early Learning Center. Not only is this methodology cherished by families, but decades of early childhood development research also validate it. Because of this, both academic and emotional development are consistently realized in children who attend the center.
The Effects of Reduced Class Sizes
Small class sizes have been identified for many years with increased learning results. For students in early education classrooms with fewer than 15 children, the National Institute for
Early Education Research (NIEER) finds:
- 13% higher rates of literacy at age 5
- 20% better social-emotional regulation
- 30% earlier detection of developmental delays
At Hitchcock Woods, class sizes are maintained even smaller than recommended nationally:
- Infants (6 weeks – 1 year): 1 teacher for each 3–4 children
- Toddlers (1–2 years): 1 teacher for each 4–5 children
- Preschoolers (3–5 years): 1 teacher for each 6–8 children
- Chartered Kindergarten (5–6 years): 1 teacher for each 10 children
Since the low ratios are sustained, each child is monitored more intensely, and teaching can be designed to accommodate individual learning patterns.
Long-Term Teacher Retention
In contrast to most early childhood centers where teacher turnover is high 30–40% per year Hitchcock Woods has bucked this trend. There have been several teachers at the center for more than 40 years, and the majority of staff have been with the program for 10 years or more.
This stability has enabled staff to build stronger relationships with children and families. Children, in turn, have a more stable, emotionally safe environment, which is crucial for the brain development of the first five years of life, when 90% of brain development happens.
Academic Gains Through Personalized Learning
Because small classes are kept intact, lesson planning is tailored to the needs of each student. The instruction is paced according to student development, and feedback is timely and useful.
On internal performance measures:
- Hitchcock’s Kindergarten students scored higher than average on early literacy and numeracy tests compared to their peers in public education.
- Learning delays were diagnosed 28–32% earlier as a result of greater attention per student.
- Emotional development objectives were achieved 94% of the time, according to end-of-year assessments.
Additionally, since teachers are not burdened with big classes, social interaction is modeled and directed more often, supporting cooperative conduct.
Parent Feedback and Satisfaction
A 2023 survey of Hitchcock Woods parents reported that:
- 93% concurred their child was more confident after three months
- 88% experienced remarkable improvement in communication skills
- 91% listed small class sizes as a main reason for attending
Also, it was commonly said that transitions to elementary school were easier for Hitchcock Woods alumni, who were said to be better prepared for the classroom.
Conclusion
At Hitchcock Woods, small class sizes are not an accommodation; they are a commitment. By capping the number of children per room and dedicating resources to long-term, veteran teachers, the center guarantees each child immersive, one-on-one, and emotionally layered learning experiences. The dividends are data-driven, reflected in real-life results, and cherished by families year-round. Big results start with smaller numbers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What are the average class sizes at Hitchcock Woods?
Class sizes are usually 3–10 children, depending on the age group.
Q2: Does small class size truly matter?
Yes. Research indicates that small class sizes enhance literacy, emotional control, and academic preparedness by double-digit percentages.
Q3: Are the teachers licensed or certified?
Yes. All staff meet state licensing requirements, and many surpass minimum standards through additional training and experience.
Q4: How long do teachers remain at Hitchcock Woods?
Several have been with the center for 10+ years, some for more than 40 years.
Q5: What are the age ranges served?
Children aged 6 weeks to 12 years are enrolled, including after-school and summer enrichment.
Resources
- hitchcockwoodsctr.com/about-us
- nieer.org
- eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov
- edweek.org/ew/articles/2023/02/15/does-class-size-matter-in-early-education.html
- nces.ed.gov/pubsearch/pubsinfo.asp?pubid=2023116
