Let Them Be Little: Ferndale’s Early Childhood Center offers a solid first step for your child’s education.

Story by Jill Lorie Hurst | Photos by Bernie Laframboise

Heidi Schmidt, Director of the Ferndale Early Childhood Center (FECC) smiled when I mentioned the plaque in her office that gave me the title for this article.

“Academics are important. But kids learn by playing. We encourage them to engage with the environment and follow their interests.” She said. As we began our tour, Heidi pointed out a colorful bulletin board, labeled, “It looks like I’m playing, but…” with many examples of how different types of interaction involve play and learning. Ms. Schmidt, who greeted each of the classrooms we entered with “Hi, friends!” is a proud and enthusiastic leader.

“Early Education” made its entrance into the Ferndale school system almost 50 years ago and has grown steadily since then. The FECC is a high-quality preschool serving children ages two-and-a-half to four, and is free to Oakland County families who qualify. Several programs exist under the roof of the solid, welcoming building, including Head Start (a two-year program), Great Start Readiness Program, and the tuition- based Little Eagles Program, which currently has 40 students in attendance and 20 on the waiting list. Classrooms are run by a teacher, with at least one assistant. Breakfast and lunch are available to full day students. All kids use the light-filled gym daily and there is a “Motor Room” for kids with sensory needs that require extra help focusing. Students spend time outdoors in the play area (weather permitting) and they also take field trips.

Early education was split between two Ferndale buildings until last June. There are nine classrooms right now, with a tenth to open its doors in January. Schmidt, who has served as director for a year, is excited about everything the Center has to offer not only the children, but their families as well. Along with the speech pathologist, Ferndale’s Early Childhood Center offers a solid first step for your child’s education.
occupational therapist, physical therapist and social worker who are available weekly, the Department of Human Services is available twice a week to all the Center’s families. A substantial number of the students at FECC come from “at risk” homes, dealing with job loss and homelessness, among other problems. There is also a “Family Resource Lab” for the parents use with computers and office equipment, things people often need, especially when they are searching for a job.

As we tiptoed into each classroom, the teachers and kids were relaxed and not flustered by our arrival. Lots of waves and smiles, a few hugs… I have a feeling Heidi peeks in on a regular basis!

Every Ferndale Friends assignment that allows me to visit the school system leaves me with hope for the future. My recent peek into the FECC was no exception. After I left Heidi, her staff and students to continue with their day, I paused to read the sign on the front of the building.

“Welcome to the Ferndale Early Childhood Center. A school family dedicated to the joy, laughter, love and happiness of every child.”

The Ferndale Early Childhood Center is located at 2920 Burdette in Ferndale. You can reach them by phone at 248-586-8820. For enrollment, call 248-586- 8686. Their Ferndale Schools web page is at www.ferndaleschools.org/schools/preschool and they’re also on Facebook

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