Our Philosophy

The Creative Learning Center was started in 1997. We are a nurturing pre-school program designed for families desiring a quality early education for their children. We are dedicated to the whole child, focusing on all educational domains: cognitive, physical, social, and emotional. Our preschool is located in Arundel, Maine, and our classes include students from the towns of Kennebunk, Kennebunkport, Arundel, Biddeford, and Wells.

Our teacher/child ratio ensures a high level of guidance. We present information in thematic units guided by the children's curiosity and focused on skills children need for future learning. The children's day will include an opportunity to participate in small focused groups, independent play, and large group games.

Our Programs

Three Day Program:
M/W/F class for children who are 4 years old by October 15
9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Two Day Program:
T/TH class for children who are 3 years old by October 15
9:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

Extended days are offered on Mondays and Wednesdays from 12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. This extra time gives children the opportunity to experience eating lunch as a group. A quiet rest after lunch is followed by play time.

Parent involvement is encouraged and appreciated. During the school year, we invite parents to participate in the classroom by joining our morning circle time to share their professions, volunteer in the classroom, and join us for field trips. Exposing children to adults who share their interests and professions enriches our program.

Field trips at the Creative Learning Center are planned to enrich and extend the curriculum outside of the classroom. In the course of the school year, we may take nature walks around the school property or visit the Rachael Carson Preserve. Other favorites are a local apple orchard, Graves Library, the University of Southern Maine Southworth Planetarium, or a gymnastics lesson. We are particularly proud of our trip at the end of the year with the older class to Vaughn Island off Kennebunkport. This trip is a culmination of our learning about the precious ocean resources and how to be good stewards of them. Helena Brook, teacher and Island Steward for the Kennebunkport Conservation Trust, works for weeks with the children to teach them "Leave No Trace" principles and tidal pool etiquette in preparation for the trip.

If you would like more information about our program, click here.