Frequently Asked Questions
WHAT ARE THE GOALS FOR CHILDREN AT THE CAMBRIDGE CHILDREN'S CIRCLE (CCC)?
Our overarching goal at CCC is to help children grow emotional muscle. We do this every day by centering the interests, questions, and problems that arise for each child, grounding every day's learning in each child's immediate experience.
WHAT MAKES CCC DIFFERENT FROM OTHER PROGRAMS?
Programming for young children is often sanitized, inactive, micromanaged, and highly structured. At CCC staff intentionally carve out lengthy time for play in the day, intervening when necessary to allow space for a child's autonomy and interests. Our skilled teachers focus on each child's social and emotional development, gently inviting them to identify and explore the feelings that emerge and the choices available when issues inherent to learning inevitably arise.
WHAT DOES IT MEAN THAT YOU'RE A PILOT PROGRAM?
We are a brand new program run by a passionate master early childhood educator who believes strongly in play-based experiences for children that are rooted in fostering their social emotional development. As a pilot, we are starting the program on a small scale, running for four weeks, with 10 children per session. Based on the interest, enrollment, and feedback, our hope is to expand the program for the following year.
WHAT IS A TYPICAL DAY* LIKE?
*No two days at CCC are alike, but this sample schedule gives an overview of daily activities and the flow.
8:30 am - 9:30 am: Arrival Choices
9:30 am - 10:00 am: Morning Circle
10:00 am - 12:00 pm: Choice Time (snack and free play)
12:00 pm - 12:30 pm: Afternoon Circle
12:30 pm - 3:00 pm: Lunch and Afternoon Adventure
3:00 pm - 3:30 pm: Clean-Up and Dismissal
WHO ARE THE ADULTS THAT WORK WITH MY CHILD/REN?
Staff go through a rigorous interviewing and screening process. Prior to the program sessions, teachers and assistants are required to participate in an orientation and First Aid training program. All of CCC staff are checked for Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) and Sexual Offender Record Information (SORI).
At any time during the application process or during a child's enrollment, parents may request copies of staff background checks, healthcare and discipline policies and procedures for filing grievances.
HOW DO CHILDREN GET TO CCC?
Families are responsible for transporting children to and from the program. We are also T accessible, located near the Harvard Square stop on the Red Line Train and the Massachusetts Ave opp Waterhouse St Stop on the #77 and #96 bus.
WHAT ARE CHILDREN REQUIRED TO BRING TO THE PROGRAM?
Backpack: Your child will carry their items with them on outings
A nutritious lunch with any necessary utensils
Refillable water bottle
Closed-toed comfortable walking shoes
Comfortable clothes that may get dirty or wet
Sunscreen already applied for the day, and for application throughout the day
Weather appropriate clothing that can get dirty
Change of clothes - accidents happen
Water shoes, sandals, and a bathing suit for water play
Towel
Rain jacket (we go out even when it's raining)
DO YOU OFFER FINANCIAL AID?
If the messaging of CCC resonates with you, but the cost of the program is prohibitive, we can offer a sliding scale tuition based on income.
WHAT ARE THE PROVISIONS FOR SAFETY?
Safety is always a priority. Outings in the neighborhood are highly supervised and we ensure that parents will be well informed of our whereabouts. With one adult for every five children we make sure there is always an adult close by to provide instruction, supervision and assistance. In cases of extreme weather (thunder, windstorm, extreme temperatures, etc.), we will not bring children outdoors.
WHAT IF MY CHILD GETS HURT OR FEELS SICK?
All of our staff is trained in first aid and carry a complete first aid kit and emergency contact information on all trips. Read our Information to Guardians(s) Regarding Health Care, Administration of Medication and Access to The Cambridge Children's Circle Policies & Procedures for further information (link will be added soon).
