Our mission

We support the growth and development of children and families through high-quality early childhood education in a safe, nurturing, and welcoming environment.

Our philosophy

At the Campbell Child & Family Center, we believe every child deserves an environment where they feel safe, valued, and supported. Our approach is grounded in developmentally appropriate practices and guided by the principles of the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).

We recognize that children learn and grow through relationships with their families, educators, and communities. We respect families as their children's first teachers and value the unique experiences, cultures, and strengths each family brings to our center. Open communication and strong partnerships between families and educators help us understand and respond to each child's individual needs.

Our purpose

The Campbell Child & Family Center serves children, families, and the Fort Lewis College community through three primary goals:

  • Provide high-quality early childhood education. Create a safe, inclusive learning environment for children of FLC students, faculty, staff, and community members through developmentally appropriate curriculum, qualified educators, and family involvement.
  • Support student learning and professional development. Provide FLC students from multiple academic disciplines with opportunities to gain practical experience working with children and families.
  • Encourage family involvement. Welcome families to observe their children throughout the day and maintain open communication with classroom educators.

Primary caregiving

Every child at the Campbell Child & Family Center has a designated primary caregiver who builds a trusting relationship with the child and serves as the family's main point of contact. This approach helps educators understand each child's individual needs, routines, and development while strengthening communication with families. Although each child has a primary caregiver, all classroom educators work together to provide consistent, responsive care and build positive relationships with every child.

Continuity of care

Our continuity-of-care approach helps children build secure, lasting relationships with their educators. Consistent routines and familiar caregivers create a predictable, nurturing environment where children feel comfortable exploring, learning, and growing.

By getting to know each child's cues, interests, and developmental needs, educators can provide responsive care and adapt classroom activities and materials as children grow. Strong relationships between educators and families help create a consistent, supportive experience for every child.