"Kids Play, Learn In Baldy Basement"

Baldy Hall, home of the CIT Help Desk, the Kiva, and countless classrooms has another secret within. It's also home to UB's very own preschool.

Located in the basement of Baldy Hall, the Early Childhood Research Center is part of the Graduate School of Education, where doctoral students help educate young children.

"It's a play-based curriculum and features social development, cognitive development, emotional development, as well as literacy, science and math skills," said Elaine Bartkowiak, the daily operations supervisor of the Early Childhood Research Center.

The Early Childhood Research Center has its own playground, where young children are given the opportunity to thrive in a class and play environment.

The Early Childhood Research Center was funded by Fisher-Price and founded by Ruth McGrath in 1932. Before North Campus became the center of the university, the Early Childhood Research Center was known as the Cooperative Nursery School.

"The ECRC's curriculum is rich with multiculturalism," Bartkowiak said. "The Early Childhood Research Center respects and embraces the diversity of each family."

The school's students represent countries including Puerto Rico and China, in addition to neighboring towns such as Orchard Park, West Seneca and Lockport.

James Hoot, director of the Early Childhood Research Center said that student enrollment in the class open for the fall and spring semester weeks. Skills acquired in the classes range from basic social skills and constructive thought.

Jamie Ostrov is conducting research in childhood psychology, Maria Runfola in music, and in mathematics, Douglas Clements and Julie Sarama.

"The center is also involved in assisting university students with projects involving Early Childhood Education," Bartkowiak said.

Bartkowiak stressed the importance of helping children get a good start on education, as well as a healthy foundation for life.

"In this time of stress within our communities and around the world, the ECRC offers children a safe and enjoyable preschool environment," she said.

According to Bartkowiak, the Early Childhood Research Center is one of the 63 nationally accredited daycare and preschool programs in Western New York. Out of the 300 plus programs similar to it, the Early Childhood Research Center received the highest honors from the National Association of the Education of Young Children.

"We are proud to say that not only have we achieved the highest standards from the NAEYC, we have maintained those standards as well," Bartkowiak said.

Classes are taught Monday through Thursday, the cost of attendance is done on a weekly-based rate. Classes also follow UB's schedule for fall and spring semesters as well as the second summer session.

The Early Childhood Research Center is holding a "Celebrating Children Day" on Dec. 8, at the Center for Tomorrow, and Bartkowiak encourages members of the UB community to attend the event.

"What's beautiful about the program is that the children represent the world of today and tomorrow, "Bartkowiak said. "Where individuals from many different cultures can work and play together in harmony."