There is an oft repeated African proverb that says: "It takes a village to raise a child," and it speaks a known truth; that no child is ever raised in a "vacuum" but is rather the product of many influences and caregivers. It is with this understanding that Maria Jendza, a longtime advocate of children and creator of successful early learning environments, has designed and directs "The Children's Village Early Learning Center" in Cranston.
The Children's Village, located on the corner of Plainfield Street and Fletcher Avenue, is the second center in the region run by this energetic director, but it is not her first. Over the past 25 years, Ms. Jendza has worked both independently and in conjunction with Miriam Hospital to bring to pass her vision of creating settings for young children which foster a love of life-long learning. Faced with the reality that parents who work outside of their homes need to leave their children in the hands of others, Ms. Jendza knows that these parents place immense trust and confidence in her expertise and experience, and she strives diligently to make The Children's Village a place worthy of that trust.
The Children's Village is an early learning center aimed specifically at infants, toddlers and preschool age children who are in need of either full or half day care. Infants from six weeks to children preparing to enter kindergarten are lovingly tended to here by a staff of certified, trained and caring teachers. Strict adherence to Rhode Island's standards is upheld, with great attention paid to both the safety and security of your child as well as to their curriculum goals and expectations.
Maria and her team here understand the developmental and multi-sensory nature of learning and have created an environment that stimulates learning at each child's appropriate level. As children prepare for kindergarten, the curriculum focuses on age-appropriate educational goals while nurturing positive social and emotional development. The program for infants and toddlers also has strict standards dictated by the state, but above all else, parents can be sure there is plenty of one-on-one attention, holding and tenderness. All of the goals of this center are clearly outlined in an introductory packet which is shared upon enrollment and on their website.
The Children's Village is a cheerful, sunny and child-friendly center where there is a strong commitment to this community and to fostering a love of learning. There is an emphasis here on academics, sensory play, problem-solving, imaginary play and exploration - including a large outdoor and well-equipped playground for daily exercise.
There are plenty of openings now for infants and toddlers, especially in a newly renovated space dedicated just for them. Come tour The Children's Village Early Learning Center at 1326 Plainfield Street. For more information, call Director Maria Jendza at 946-2211 or visit their website at www.thechildrensvillage.net. Hours are 6:30am - 6:00pm, M-F.
