Eligibility
The Child Development Center at MiraCosta College serves as a campus-based child development program providing both academic instruction to students enrolled in child development/early childhood education courses and childcare services to student, staff, and community families. Providing demonstration classrooms to the college community, our program offers a model of best practice in early childhood education while providing students learning opportunities through observation and hands-on interactions with young children and their families.
Following the lead of MiraCosta’s commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion, the Child Development Center is committed to providing a strong, supportive, and authentic environment where difference is valued, respected, encouraged, and honored; where all children, their families, and staff experience a sense of belonging and the freedom to express themselves; and where their experiences are recognized and valued. Children with disabilities are welcome and we will provide reasonable accommodations whenever possible to aid access to and participation in services, programs, facilities, and activities.
Program Options
The Child Development Center follows the MiraCosta College academic calendar and operates from August through May. The Center is closed during the summer months of June and July as well as all College designated holidays and academic breaks.
Children ages 18 months through 5 years (not eligible for kindergarten) at the time of enrollment are able to participate in our program. Rolling enrollment for each academic year begins in May and continues until capacity is reached. Applications for enrollment are processed on a first come, first served basis, verified by the timestamp of the online application.
Enrollment priority is given in the following order
- MiraCosta College students enrolled in 6 or more units*
- MiraCosta College employees
- Community members
To qualify for student status at MiraCosta College, individuals must be enrolled in and maintain at least 6 units/credits throughout the semester, and pursuing a degree, certificate, or transfer track with an educational plan. MiraCosta College employees (except for student workers and apprentices) are not eligible for student status.
Families may choose from the following enrollment options
- 2 days per week (Monday/Wednesday or Tuesday/Thursday)
- 3 days per week (Monday/Wednesday/Friday or Tuesday/Thursday/Friday)
- 5 days per week (Monday through Friday)
Requests for alternative schedules will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Admission is open to all children 18 months to 4 years and 11 months of age. As a campus-based child development program, priority enrollment and student tuition rates are available to student families (enrolled in 6 or more units).
Enrollment options for our morning programs are 2 days (M/W or T/Th), 3 days (M/W/F or T/Th/F) or 5 days (M-F). Requests for a schedule other than those listed will be handled on a case-by-case basis. Extended Day programming is only available to students attending MiraCosta College classes during those times or for MCC faculty and staff employed on campus and availability is limited. Enrollment priority is as follows:
- Students enrolled in 6+ units at MiraCosta
- MiraCosta Faculty and Staff
- Community members
Classroom Options / Ratios
- Room 3: Toddlers (18–24 months, ** approx. 1:4 ratio)
This classroom supports our youngest learners. The focus is on building strong, nurturing relationships through consistent routines, while encouraging development in all domains. Morning option only. - Rooms 1 & 2: Young Preschool (2 years – 3 years, ** approx. 1:6 ratio)
These classrooms offer rich, play-based learning experiences. Children explore a range of interest centers that promote development in all domains. Morning and Full-day options available. - Rooms 4 & 5: Preschool (4 years – 5 years** approx. 1:8 ratio)
These classrooms offer rich, play-based learning experiences. Children explore a range of interest centers that promote development in all domains. Morning and Full-day options available.
** Age ranges are approximate and may vary slightly based on enrollment needs and classroom availability.
Sample Routine of the Day
Snack Menu (rotates every 4 weeks)
Tuition
Admission Policy
The Child Development Center follows the MiraCosta College academic calendar and operates from August through May. The Center is closed during the summer months of June and July as well as all College designated holidays and academic breaks.
Children ages 18 months through 5 years (not eligible for kindergarten) at the time of enrollment are able to participate in our program. Rolling enrollment for each academic year begins in May and continues until capacity is reached. Applications for enrollment are processed on a first come, first served basis, verified by the timestamp of the online application.
Enrollment priority is given in the following order
- MiraCosta College students enrolled in 6 or more units*
- MiraCosta College employees
- Community members
To qualify for student status at MiraCosta College, individuals must be enrolled in and maintain at least 6 units/credits throughout the semester, and pursuing a degree, certificate, or transfer track with an educational plan. MiraCosta College employees (except for student workers and apprentices) are not eligible for student status.
Prior to the child’s first day of attendance, proof of immunization (see current requirements) must be provided. Additional forms required by Community Care Licensing must be completed and signed by the child’s parent or legal guardian.
