Viewpoint: The ACCA Child Development Center offers high-quality learning
By Andrea Sobel, chair of the ACCA Child Development Center Board of Directors
Looking for an exceptional early childhood environment with caring educators for your child? Fortunately, we have that right here in Annandale.
The ACCA Child Development Center is proud to provide high-quality, affordable early education and developmentally appropriate care for children from 3 months to 5 years.
ACCA believes every child has the potential to become a lifelong learner. The Child Development Center (CDC) nurtures the whole child – cognitively, socially, emotionally, and physically – through engaging activities and a supportive environment.
The CDC, located in the heart of Annandale at 7200 Columbia Pike, has partnered with families for more than 50 years, earning their trust and appreciation.
“We are convinced that a strong connection between families, the community, and our center is key to each child’s success,” says CDC Executive Director Maria-Isabel Ballivian.
The CDC serves all children, not just those from lower-income families. “We have one of the best programs in town, but a lot of people don’t know about us,” Ballivian says. “We want people to know everyone is welcome.”
Note: The CDC is hosting the children’s program at the Taste of Annandale with costumed characters, live entertainment, STEM activities, crafts, games, and more.
Until the past few years, the Child Development Center had a waiting list. Now, it 70 openings for children ages 2-5. Total capacity is 225.
There are several reasons for the enrollment decline: Families with fewer resources are moving out of the area. Parents are wary of sharing personal information when applying for subsidies, even if their children were born in the U.S. Parents who’ve lost jobs are struggling financially. People without jobs or working at home don’t need childcare.
Ballivian would like to enroll more children whose parents don’t need subsidies. That would not only help the CDC’s bottom line but would also increase the economic diversity among the children.
For those who need help, financial assistance is available through the Virginia Preschool Initiative and military childcare subsidies.
In the CDC’s diverse and nurturing environment, educators follow The Creative Curriculum, a play-based approach that fosters every area of development and learning through engaging and developmentally appropriate experiences.
“This method promotes joyful and meaningful learning for every child,” Ballivian explains. Additionally, the CDC integrates arts and crafts, music, and STEM activities to meet the needs of all children. Healthy meals and formula are provided each day.
The center proudly meets the gold standard from the National Association for the Education of Young Children. The CDC’s highly trained educators receive more than 100 hours of professional development every year.
ACCA believes every child should have access to a high-quality education.
See why ACCA Child Development Center is the right place for your child. Learn more at www.accacdc.org or contact us at [email protected] or 703-256-0100.