Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Trusted Preschool Program in Ann Arbor, MI
Founded in 1975, Early Learning Center provides a safe and nurturing environment where preschoolers of all backgrounds and abilities learn through play. Our program emphasizes exploratory activities that foster curiosity, self-esteem, and independence. With a team of experienced educators, we offer both directed and non-directed activities designed to stimulate social-emotional, intellectual, physical, and creative growth.Our curriculum aligns with the Michigan Early Childhood Standards of Quality for Preschoolers and draws from The Creative Curriculum to focus on the development of the whole child. We maintain a 4-star rating from Michigan's Great Start to Quality Program and operate as a 501(c)3 non-profit organization governed by a parent-led Board of Trustees.
Services
Caterpillar Class
Butterfly Class
Early Bird Extension
Lunch Bunch Extension
Parent Conferences
Details
- Year established: 1975
Highlights and features
- We implement a play-based curriculum aligned with Michigan's Early Childhood Standards
- Our team teaching system ensures balanced classroom leadership and expertise
- Small class sizes with maximum 14-16 students per classroom
- Experienced educators with degrees in child development and early education
- Regular parent communication and family engagement opportunities
Associations and certifications
- Great Start to Quality Program
What people say
Amazing teachers
Creative teaching tools
Exceptionally kind staff
Play-based program
Safe learning space
Services
Caterpillar Class
Designed for 2.5-3 year olds, this program focuses on creating positive first school experiences through structured play activities. Classes meet 2-3 mornings weekly with a 14-student maximum. Curriculum includes sensory play, art, music, and outdoor activities to develop foundational social and cognitive skills.
Butterfly Class
Serving 4-5 year olds, this class emphasizes kindergarten readiness through play-based learning. With 16 students maximum, it combines social skills development with academic preparation. Classes meet 2-3 days weekly with extended hours on Tuesdays to build routine and school familiarity.
Early Bird Extension
This before-class program accommodates early drop-offs from 8:15-8:45am. For $5 daily, children engage in supervised play activities before regular class starts. It provides flexibility for working parents while maintaining a smooth transition into the school day.
Lunch Bunch Extension
Extending care until 12:30pm, this program includes structured activities beyond morning classes. At $5 per day, it offers continued educational engagement through themed play stations while developing social skills during extended peer interaction time.
People
Tracey Smith
Director
With over 35 years in early childhood education, Tracey holds a Master's in Early Childhood Education from Eastern Michigan University. She has directed preschool programs since 2007 and leads ELC's team teaching system implementation.
Sara Rydell
Butterfly Class Teacher
A former parent and board member, Sara brings diverse educational experience including college-level instruction. She holds a Child Development Associate credential and focuses on community-building through play-based learning in her classroom.
Heather Finnie
Butterfly Class Teacher
Specializing in early literacy, Heather combines her English degree with classroom experience to create literature-rich learning environments. Her teaching emphasizes nature connections and creative expression through art and storytelling.
Shannon Robertson
Caterpillar Class Teacher
With international teaching experience in Detroit and Australia, Shannon applies her Master's in Education to develop sensory-based learning activities. She specializes in early cognitive development through play and outdoor exploration.
Maura Tyno
Caterpillar Class Teacher
Focusing on children's literature integration, Maura uses her Library Science background to create book-centered learning experiences. She emphasizes storytelling and reading readiness through playful, developmentally appropriate activities.
Questions
What age groups do you serve?
We serve children aged 2.5 to 5 years through our Caterpillar (2.5-3) and Butterfly (4-5) classes.
What curriculum do you use?
Our play-based curriculum follows Michigan's Early Childhood Standards and incorporates The Creative Curriculum framework for holistic development.
How do I schedule a tour?
Contact us via phone or email to schedule a personal tour with our director. Virtual tour options are also available.
Are meals provided?
We provide morning snack for all students. Families pack lunches for children staying beyond morning sessions.
What are your operating hours?
Regular classes run September-June with sessions varying by class: 8:45-11:45am or 9am-3:15pm on scheduled days.
Do you accept special needs students?
Yes, we welcome children of all abilities and work individually with families to accommodate special needs.
