The RLC Foundation Children's Center is for children ages six weeks to 5 years. Emphasis is on a developmentally appropriate curriculum featuring:

• Art and Music
• Indoor/Outdoor Learning Centers
• Cooperative Learning
• Child-Initiated Projects/Activities
• Integrated Learning
• Hands-on, movable "loose parts," other materials to stir creativity

The center serves students and staff alike as a quality day-care facility and training complex for two-year RLC Associate in Applied Science and one-year Occupational Certificate programs in Child Development. It, likewise, is a model for other day-care operations within the college's six-county district and helps provide a trained, well-qualified workforce.

While attending classes or working, students/employees are able to leave a young child (children) in the capable hands of a caring, skilled Children's Center staff. If they so desire and have time, parents also are encouraged to share in the experience with their children, either during lunch/playtime or through classroom observation.

Indoor Environment
The indoor classroom will be an aesthetically beautiful and natural environment which will inspire children to actively explore in a variety of learning centers. Natural light, natural wood, plants and a variety of music and art surround young children as the Director, teachers, and staff facilitate learning and problem-solving.

The center boasts a highly trained staff of caring individuals and high teacher to child ratios.

Outdoor Environment
The Children's Center is located on the northwest edge of campus, nestled in a wooded setting adjacent to the Outdoor Amphi-theater and Prairie Restoration Project featuring a one-room school house and native tallgrass/wildflowers.

Children enjoy the "natural" outdoor learning centers, including art, woodworking, sand and dramatic play. The water trough promises to be a favorite area; others may prefer the porch swing, vegetable/perennial garden or small animals.

Priority for Acceptance
Child-care opening in the RLC Foundation Children's Center, when possible, will be filled in a the following priority -

1. Students (75%);
2. Year-round Staff (20%);
3. Other Faculty and Staff;
4. Community.

For information, or to place your child's name on a list for consideration, contact:

Child Development Program
c/o Rend Lake College
468 N Ken Gray Parkway
Ina, IL 62846