Newport, VA

Giles County Child Development Center operates as part of the public school system, offering comprehensive early childhood education with Virginia Quality-rated curriculum. The center features highly qualified teachers with early childhood education certifications and maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios. Their program emphasizes literacy development, social-emotional learning, and school readiness through structured play-based learning. The facility includes secure indoor learning environments and age-appropriate outdoor play areas. What makes this center exceptional is its integration with the local school system, ensuring smooth transitions to kindergarten and access to school resources and specialists.

As part of Radford University's College of Education, this center provides research-based early childhood education with faculty oversight and student teacher involvement. The program follows NAEYC guidelines and features a developmental approach that emphasizes hands-on learning, creative expression, and individualized attention. Teachers hold advanced degrees in early childhood education and participate in ongoing professional development. The center offers state-of-the-art facilities including dedicated art studios, music rooms, and natural outdoor learning environments. Their unique advantage is the university connection, providing access to educational resources and cutting-edge teaching methodologies.

This federally-funded Head Start program provides comprehensive early childhood education with a strong focus on school readiness and family engagement. The center uses the Creative Curriculum and focuses on developing literacy, math, and social skills through structured activities and play. All teachers meet or exceed Virginia's early childhood education requirements and receive specialized training in trauma-informed care and inclusive practices. The program includes nutritional meals, health screenings, and family support services. What distinguishes this center is its holistic approach to child development, addressing educational, health, and family needs simultaneously while maintaining high quality standards despite being a tuition-free program for eligible families.