Gunnison, CO

The Gunnison County Early Childhood Center operates as a consortium of high-quality early childhood programs serving children from 6 weeks to 5 years old. They employ a mixed-age classroom approach that emphasizes social-emotional development alongside academic readiness. The center features highly qualified early childhood educators with specialized training in Colorado's early learning guidelines. Their curriculum focuses on play-based learning, literacy development, and outdoor exploration tailored to the mountain community environment. The facility maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios and emphasizes strong parent partnerships through regular communication and family engagement events. Safety protocols include secure entry systems and comprehensive emergency preparedness plans.

Little School of the Gunnison Valley provides a nurturing, play-based preschool environment with a strong emphasis on social development and kindergarten readiness. Their educational approach combines structured learning with child-directed activities, focusing on developing problem-solving skills, creativity, and independence. The center employs licensed early childhood educators who implement developmentally appropriate practices aligned with Colorado Early Learning Guidelines. The facility features bright, well-equipped classrooms, extensive outdoor play areas, and specialized learning centers for art, science, and literacy. Parents consistently praise the school's warm community atmosphere, experienced teaching staff, and comprehensive approach to early childhood development that prepares children academically and socially for elementary school.

Located in nearby Crested Butte (serving the broader Gunnison Valley area), Crested Butte Mountain Preschool offers a unique nature-immersion curriculum that leverages the region's mountain environment. Their educational philosophy emphasizes outdoor exploration, environmental stewardship, and hands-on learning experiences. The program features highly qualified teachers with specialized training in nature-based early childhood education and maintains excellent staff-to-child ratios. The preschool operates both indoor classroom spaces and extensive outdoor learning environments, including forest classrooms and garden areas. Safety is prioritized through comprehensive outdoor risk management protocols and small group supervision. The program is particularly noted for developing children's confidence, resilience, and connection to the natural world while ensuring strong kindergarten readiness through play-based academic foundations.