Child Development Center

The purpose of the Child Development Center is:

• To promote the social and educational growth of the child.
• To aid in development of a sound self-concept.
• To further growth in language skills.

At the Child Development Center, we believe that a good pre-school program is built on a foundation of sound human relationships.  In order for warmth and personal contact to flourish, our day is planned so there are many opportunities for one-to-one encounters.  We try to keep groups small and the ratio of adults to children as high as possible.  We provide occasions where the children move freely about, making personal choices and individual contacts.

We have designed our program to incorporate concepts of how young children learn as individuals and as group members.

• We promote your child’s growth and development.
• We utilize planned activities.
• We incorporate learning through play.
• We provide concerned attention and love, and enhance your child’s self-concept.

Progress reports will be sent home at the beginning of the Spring semester.  These reports are designed to keep you informed of your child(ren)’s progress at the Center.

Can I visit my child during the day?

Absolutely! Feel free to join your child at lunchtime, playtime - anytime!

Do the children go outside everyday?

The children go outside in all seasons as required by Illinois state licensing and as long as they will be safe; for example, if there is no lightning, the children all have appropriate clothing, the temperature is not extreme. We take into account many factors, not limited to but including the amount of sun exposure, the wind-chill factor or heat index and pollution index. We have an indoor large muscle activity area for those times when we cannot go outside.

How will I know what is happening during my child's day?

You are welcome to call or visit any time. The Toddler, Young Preschool and Preschool teachers describe each class's activities in their weekly newsletters.

Is there a Director on site?

Yes, DACC CDC Director is available to the staff and parents daily, and most importantly, the Director is on site to oversee the environment. The Director is not regularly scheduled in a classroom and therefore free to observe and mentor staff and to help create a safe age-appropriate learning experience for your child.

What security precautions are in place?

The Child Development Center has in place state of the art security which includes all doors with security systems, security cameras in all classrooms, and a computerized key entry system on the main entrance. On-site Security Personal are also on Campus and available.

Dates are subject to change

2026

2027

Phone: 217-443-8833 
Email: cdc@dacc.edu

Director: 
Melissa Hollingsworth 
email: m.hollingsworth@dacc.edu

Assistant Director: 
Shanna Forthenberry 
email: s.forthenberry@dacc.edu

Administrative Assistant: 
Taylor Pavlick 
email: t.pavlick@dacc.edu