Program Goals
The Jeanne M. Canelli Child Development Lab
is a preschool program for children ages 2 years 9 months to 6 years
old. A kindergarten option is available for eligible children. The program is run under the auspices of the Education Department
at Framingham State College. It is child centered and
emphasizes free play, socialization, creative expression, and exploration in a literacy rich environment. The goals of the program are to:
- advance each child's knowledge of the environment
- support the growth of the whole child through interactive play
- facilitate the development of self as a unique and competent person
The Jeanne M. Canelli Child Development Lab is inclusive. That is, children from different backgrounds and abilities are supported in an environment that values the uniqueness of each child.
The Child Development Lab also provides Framingham State College students who are interested in teaching young children with opportunities to observe, teach lessons, and participate in an early childhood preschool classroom. The students work under the direct supervision of the Director, the Associate Director and our early childhood teachers. Our college students' experiences in the Lab are an integral component of their teacher preparation program.