Valerie Ettenhofer
Staff Writer

Chances are, the daycare you grew up in isn’t at all like Pierce College Fort Steilacoom’s Early Childhood Education [ECE] center. The professional track for those hoping to work with young children has grown exponentially in recent decades as emerging research placed emphasis on the importance of formative years. “This is a really exciting time to be a part of early childhood education,” says Krissy Kim, Director of Educational Programs.

Unlike the childcare provided at the Milgard Center, the ECE’s main use is as a tool for students within the program to demonstrate their growth and abilities. At the same time, young children from the local area enjoy a fun, interactive childcare program for two hours, three days per week.

Pierce College offers the only ECE lab school in the state, which allows for an interesting opportunity. Five to seven students per quarter actually become teachers to preschool-aged children as a part of their capstone project.

“One of the things that makes the Pierce ECE program unique,” Kim shared, “is our focus on developmental theory as a basis for what we do…We believe strongly that we want to meet children where they are developmentally.”

To that end, the kids’ schedule includes small group time working on whatever skills that fit their needs, from science and literacy to social skills and self-esteem. An average day for the kids also includes story time, singing, exploration of a theme, free play time and a snack.

The significant lessons taught by each moment are not lost on Kim. “Really, the purpose of snack is not so much about eating…but that family-style meal where we pass and serve and…build relationships as we talk with each other around the table.”

Pierce’s program itself has changed significantly since it was established in the 1970s, most recently with the assistance of Washington’s Race to the Top Early Learning Challenge grant, which allotted 60 million dollars to be spent over five years in hopes of doubling the number of certified, educated childcare providers.

Parents hoping to enroll their children in the program must be willing to take a gamble, as the spaces are in such high demand that a lottery determines which children may enroll.

A Wednesday morning program for toddlers and their primary caregivers is available as well.

When it comes to deciding whether or not the ECE track is a good fit for you as a student, Kim explains that a mix of stability and flexibility are essential traits.

When asked what type of person should pursue a career in ECE, Kim said, “Somebody who is passionate about life, because you can’t help but be when you’re with children…somebody that knows it’s going to be absolutely one of the hardest jobs you will ever have and one of the most joyous.”