Child Educational Center

The Child Educational Center is an innovative, nationally-accredited early care and education organization with a pioneering focus on progressive education and outdoor learning. The CEC’s programs have served as a leader in early childhood education since 1979, and emphasize a commitment to nurturing children’s physical and psychological well-being. Anchored by the campus in La Canada, CA, which serves as a model outdoor classroom site, the CEC fulfills its mission through its - Children's Programs and its holistic, research-based approach to early learning, - Professional Development services and seminars for educators, - Consulting services and nature-based initiatives, including the renowned Outdoor Classroom Project, - Field-building qualitative research. The CEC’s infant, toddler, preschool, and school-age programs support the development of nearly 900 children daily at seven sites in La Canada and Pasadena. The Child Educational Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and an affiliate of Caltech and JPL.