Childrens Center

The Children's Center (TCC) was founded in 1978 by a group of students and faculty at Westbrook College, and the preschool grew into a lab school for the College's education degree program. In 2000, the University of New England (UNE) purchased Westbrook College and closed its childhood program. Rather than close The Children's Center, a group of dedicated parents worked with the University to preserve it as a private school.

The Children's Center (TCC) employs 18 full-time teaching staff, an Executive Director, an Assistant Director and an Office Manager/Bookkeeper. The staff members at The Children's Center are committed to serving children and families, and they bring a wide range of skills and talents to our teaching teams.

Amy grew up in northern Maine and now resides in Portland with her Husband and two daughters - Alia (a TCC alumnus now in kindergarten) and Cora who is a blue roomer. She was a room parent for two years and is now serving as president of the board and chair of the community committee. Amy has a background in Higher education and worked for more than 10 years at various colleges before deciding to take some time off to be a stay at home mom.

The Children's Center (TCC) is located at 721 Stevens Avenue, across the street from the UNE campus. The building is a Victorian house that has been converted into a unique and welcoming space for children. There are six classrooms, each with distinct features, but sharing common elements such as an abundance of natural light, and materials and furnishings that provide a cozy, home-like atmosphere.

Infants are active learners who are navigating their own physical bodies as well as the vital relationships with their caregivers. Our center provides infants with close proximity and consistent care from adults as well as developmentally crafted space to explore their bodies and their world. Infant rooms maintain a NAEYC ration of 1:4 children for ages 2-18 months.