Child Development and Education Center
Child-centered. Developmentally Appropriate. Empowering.
The UA&P Child Development and Education Center is the School of Education and Human Development Early Childhood Education program’s laboratory preschool. It serves young children while also supporting teacher education and research in early childhood development.
We guide young learners through Play, Purpose, and Partnership – the three pillars of the CDE Center. We believe in learning through meaningful play, in teaching with intention, and in building strong home–school connections.
Play
Play is the natural language of childhood. At the CDE Center, play is not an added activity. It is the way children explore ideas, test theories, and make sense of the world. Through guided and independent play, children develop language, mathematical thinking, creativity, and self-regulation. Play allows learning to be joyful and deep at the same time.
Purpose
Teaching is thoughtful and deliberate. Every activity, routine, and environment is carefully planned to support developmental growth. We observe closely, reflect on children’s needs, and design experiences that strengthen literacy, numeracy, inquiry, and character. Purpose ensures that play leads to meaningful learning.
Partnership
Education is most effective when school and home work together. We maintain open communication with families and provide guidance that helps parents support their children beyond the classroom. Parents are not spectators. They are active partners in the child’s growth. Strong home–school collaboration creates consistency, trust, and shared responsibility in nurturing each learner.
Together, Play, Purpose, and Partnership shape a learning community where children feel secure, capable, and valued.
Our program is guided by three core commitments:
Child-centered. We begin with the child’s interests, readiness, and pace of growth.
Developmentally appropriate. Experiences are aligned with how young children learn best through play, movement, conversation, and hands-on exploration.
Empowering. Children are given meaningful opportunities to think, choose, create, and solve problems within a structured and nurturing environment. At the same time, parents are equipped and supported so they can confidently guide their children’s growth at home. Through open communication, conferences, and shared reflection, families become active partners in the learning process.
Learning at the CDE Center is play-based, inquiry-driven, and grounded in strong collaboration with
families.
Our Programs
Nursery
Designed for children beginning their preschool experience.
The Nursery program focuses on helping children feel secure, capable, and connected. Daily routines are carefully structured to build independence and confidence.
Children engage in:
• Guided play and sensory exploration
• Storytelling and early language development
• Music and movement
• Social interaction and emotional regulation
Pre-Kinder
For children strengthening school readiness skills.
The Pre-Kinder program builds early foundations in literacy, numeracy, and inquiry. Children are encouraged to observe, question, and explore ideas in meaningful contexts.
Learning experiences include:
• Thematic investigations
• Early reading and writing readiness activities
• Purposeful art and construction work
• Science exploration
• Small-group learning sessions
Kindergarten
For children preparing for grade school.
The Kindergarten program deepens academic foundations while supporting leadership and responsibility.
Children participate in:
• Structured literacy and numeracy blocks
• Early project work
• Collaborative problem-solving
• Scientific thinking and exploration
The goal is not only readiness for grade School, but readiness for lifelong learning.
Playgroup
Designed for young children who are beginning to explore learning in a small group setting, The Playgroup program provides a gentle introduction to structured routines and social interaction. Sessions are shorter in duration and focus on building comfort, trust, and early independence.
Children engage in:
• Sensory play and exploration
• Music and movement
• Storytelling and language exposure
• Fine and gross motor activities
• Guided social interaction
The program supports independence, socialization, and readiness for routines.
Check our Summer Adventures 2026
Admissions Process
We welcome families who are seeking a thoughtful and developmentally sound preschool experience. Our admissions process is designed to help parents understand our approach and to ensure a good fit between the child, the family, and the CDE Center.
1. Inquiry
Parents may contact the CDE Center through email, social media, or the UA&P website. Our team will respond with program information, tuition details, and available schedules. We are happy to answer initial questions and guide families through the next step
2. School Visit, Trial Class, or Open House
We strongly encourage families to visit the campus. Seeing the classrooms, outdoor spaces, and daily routines provides a clearer understanding of our program.
Parents may choose to:
• Attend an Open House
• Schedule a school tour
• Arrange a trial class for their child, when available
These visits allow families to observe how children learn through play, how teachers guide with intention, and how the environment supports growth.
3. Enrollment Submission
To apply, parents must complete the official enrollment form:
Enrollment Form:
https://bit.ly/CDECEnrollment2627
Required information and documents will be indicated in the form. Submission of the form signifies the family’s intention to enroll and secures the child’s place in the admissions queue.
4. Enrollment Confirmation
Upon acceptance, parents confirm enrollment by settling the required fees within the given deadline. Proof of payment or deposit must be emailed to: cdecenter@uap.asia
Reservation of slot is considered final only after the CDE Center has acknowledged receipt of the proof of payment. An official confirmation will be sent to the family.
Please note that slots are limited to maintain low teacher–child ratios and a supportive learning environment.Enrollment operates on a first-confirmed basis, subject to availability.
We look forward to welcoming families who value play, purposeful teaching, and strong partnership between school and home.
Leadership in Child Development
The program is led by a director committed to advancing excellence in child development education and formation.
Melissa Antoinette C. Garcia
Director,
UA&P CDE Center