The University of Rhode Island Child Development Centers in Kingston, Rhode Island, made a significant impact on December 12, 2024. This annual event, held in the Memorial Union, aimed to benefit the Rhode Island Community Food Bank. The preschool students, under the guidance of Director Jessica MacLeod and her dedicated team of teachers and student interns, showcased their handmade artworks as a token of gratitude for the donations received.

Handmade Artworks as a Thank-You

The preschool students, ranging in age from three to five, actively engaged with passers-by. They invited them to contribute to the food bank in exchange for a unique, handmade gift. Spending weeks on their creations, these young artists produced colorful bookmarks, candle holders, postcards, shoelaces, and key chains. These handcrafted items were then distributed in exchange for cash or non-perishable food donations.

Quality Early Childhood Education

The Child Development Centers at the University of Rhode Island provide exceptional early childhood education programs. Accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), these full-day preschool programs have two locations - on the URI's Kingston Campus and in the Shepherd Building in downtown Providence. They offer high-quality education for pre-primary children, serving as a training facility for teachers and supporting research in early childhood education. Moreover, they serve as a model of best practice in early care and education through outreach and advocacy, benefiting the community.

Connection with the Department of Human Development

Part of the Department of Human Development and Family Studies at URI, these centers offer undergraduate and graduate degrees related to working with children and families. As the campus "lab school," they serve as a valuable resource for early childhood educators in the state. Educators are welcome to reach out with questions or requests to observe. The staff also actively participates in community outreach by engaging with professional organizations dedicated to young children and presenting at state and regional conferences.Learn more about the CDC: https://web.uri.edu/child-development-centers/