Since its inception, the Union City Day Care Program Inc. has been a cornerstone of the community, dedicated to fostering the growth and development of young children in Union City. Established to provide crucial support for families, the program has continually expanded its services and facilities to meet the evolving needs of Union City residents.
In a significant move to broaden its reach, the Union City Day Care Program Inc. undertook a major refurbishment and remodeling project in midtown Union City in 1999. This initiative culminated in the fall of 2000 with the grand opening of the Union City Early Childhood Learning Center (UCECLC). UCECLC stands as a testament to the program’s commitment, offering free preschool and pre-kindergarten programs to eligible Union City families. This center provides a nurturing and academically stimulating environment designed to prepare young learners for future success.
Further demonstrating its dedication to addressing diverse community needs, the Union City Day Care Program Inc. established Le Petit Jardin in 2004. Located within the Union City High School building, Le Petit Jardin provides invaluable child care services during school hours specifically for teen parents participating in the Parent Linking Program. This unique program offers a comprehensive curriculum tailored to the developmental needs of infants and toddlers of adolescent parents. In return for free child care, teen parents engage in weekly group sessions alongside their academic pursuits, fostering both their educational attainment and parenting skills.
At the heart of the Union City Day Care Program Inc. is a holistic approach to child development. The program’s infant and toddler care focuses on nurturing physical, cognitive, and psychosocial growth within a secure, healthy, and stimulating setting. For preschool, pre-kindergarten, and kindergarten students, the curriculum emphasizes oral language development and early literacy skills, employing an integrated thematic learning methodology. Experienced teachers expertly guide children through a year of exploration, independence building, responsibility acceptance, and self-confidence development. The program is designed to provide an enriching and challenging curriculum within a caring and supportive atmosphere, ensuring a strong foundation for each child’s academic journey.
Admission into the various child care programs offered by Union City Day Care Program Inc. is based on eligibility criteria set forth by the Department of Human Services Division of Family Development. Placement considerations include registration date, waiting list position, and the availability of age-appropriate program slots. Importantly, placement in the free preschool, pre-kindergarten, and kindergarten programs is open to all Union City residents and is coordinated in conjunction with the Union City Board of Education, ensuring accessibility and community-wide benefit. The Union City Day Care Program Inc. maintains a strict policy of non-discrimination based on race, religion, or socioeconomic status, reinforcing its commitment to serving all members of the Union City community.
