Missouri State University

Child Development Center In 1964, a preschool laboratory was opened by Missouri State to provide practicum experiences for child and family development and early childhood education majors. The laboratory was housed in the Department of Consumer and Family Studies. The preschool laboratory has operated continuously since opening in 1964. In 1997, the Missouri State Child Care Task Force presented a proposal to establish an on-campus childcare center. In 1999, the infant and toddler program housed in the building on E. Elm and the preschool program housed in Madison Hall were combined into one building- the Child Development Center. The Child Development Center was built as a wing of the Professional Building. The 12,262 square foot facility was formally opened in the fall 2000. The Child Development Center is located at 609 E. Cherry, part of the Professional Building. The Child Development Center falls under the Childhood Education and Family Studies Dept. within the College of Education. The first floor of the facility includes an infant activity area, a toddler activity area, a two-year old classroom, a kitchen, and support areas. The second floor includes the preschool program, offices, and conference room. The Child Development Center can serve up to 88 children from 6 weeks to 5 years of age. They are cared for and taught by highly qualified teachers. Practicum students, under the supervision of faculty and staff, complete field experiences at the Child Development Center. Faculty are available to assist students in a variety of ways.