Mission Statement
Children’s Learning Center has been providing quality care and education to children in the Lawrence community since 1969.
Philosophy
We hope to collaborate with families toward goals and encourage the children:
To develop their own potential abilities
To learn to care for themselves, their bodily needs and the things around them
To develop their ability to verbalize emotions and experiences
To learn to enjoy the company of peers and adults
To complete activities according to individual ability
To develop listening skills
To function in a daily routine with self-control and independence
To do for themselves what they can creating autonomy skills
To begin to develop necessary skills for the next phase of life
History
The Children's Learning Center: A History of Growth and Dedication
Born from a deep concern for the well-being of children, the Children's Learning Center (CLC) first opened its doors in 1969 on the grounds of Lawrence Memorial Hospital. Originally founded by a group of passionate community members dedicated to children's care and development, the CLC quickly learned that a commitment to quality care requires more than just good intentions—it needs solid financial support and strong organization.
This realization led to a significant reorganization in 1972, with a new board forming to strengthen the center's foundation. Over the years, the CLC's journey has been one of adaptation and expansion. It moved twice, eventually finding a permanent home in 1993, just a few blocks north of its original hospital site.
Decades later, in 2023, the CLC embarked on a new chapter. Seizing the opportunity to partner with DCCCA First Step, the center expanded its reach by opening a second, smaller location. After months of careful planning and preparation, CLC South officially welcomed its first families in December 2023, bringing the center's long-standing mission to even more children..
Board of Directors
CLC is governed by a Board of Directors that is composed of both parents and community members who assist management in making decisions that affect Children’s Learning Center.
2025 - 2026 Board of Directors
Lynne Baker - Parent Member
Erinn Barcomb-Peterson - Community Member
Britani Congleton - Community Member
Kevyn Gero- Community Member
Carly Hardman - Parent Member
Candice Lavalette - Community Member
Jay Lovett- Parent Member (South)
Angie Meyer/ Jeremy Fischer - Parent Member
Aaron Newton - Parent Member
Bri Orton - Community Member
Katie and Brett Showalter - Parent Member
Mark Stair - Community Member
Children’s Learning Center is licensed by Kansas Department of Health and Environment.