Early Childhood Education Lab Schools

Feel confident with your choice of childcare

We know how important it is to feel comfortable and confident about where you send your children for early education. The way we help children learn at a young age has an impact on the way children develop - which is why we are so passionate about elevating early childhood education.

Our Early Childhood programs are taught by educators who are specially trained to teach children ages 0-8 and have an early childhood education degree. They are supported by our College of Southern Idaho Early Childhood Education college students who are working toward becoming educators. This is what makes us a Lab school.

What makes CSI Early Childhood Education so different

The early years of a child's life are profoundly important

These early years lay the foundation for all future development. The brain undergoes rapid development, forming vital neural connections that shape a child’s cognitive, social, emotional, and physical abilities. Early experiences play a significant role in shaping the architecture of the brain.

Our approach is rooted in the belief that children are capable, competent individuals with a natural curiosity to explore the world around them. We provide a supportive environment where children are encouraged to take risks, problem-solve, and express themselves freely, fostering a sense of independence and self-confidence.

All our teachers have degrees in early childhood education. Their role is that of a co-learner and facilitator of children’s learning. Our teachers are supported by our Early Childhood Education students who are working towards becoming educators.

Play-Based Learning

Play-based learning engages children in activities that promote development across all domains: cognitive, social, emotional, and physical. Play allows children to explore their imaginations, experiment with ideas, and express themselves creatively. Whether engaging in pretend play, building structures with blocks, or creating art, children have the freedom to invent, innovate, and explore endless possibilities. Children learn best when they are actively engaged in manipulating materials, experimenting with cause and effect, and making meaningful connections to their environment. Through cooperative play, children learn important social skills such as sharing, taking turns, empathy, and conflict resolution. Play-based activities provide rich language experiences that support the development of vocabulary, grammar, and communication skills. Children develop a love for learning when they are actively involved in activities that capture their interests, spark their curiosity, and allow for exploration and discovery.

Emphasis on Inquiry

Inquiry-based learning encourages children to ask questions, explore, and investigate the world around them. By following their natural curiosity, children become actively engaged in the learning process, leading to deeper understanding and retention of knowledge. By posing questions, making predictions, and testing hypotheses, children develop essential reasoning and problem-solving skills that are crucial for academic success and lifelong learning. It empowers children to take ownership of their learning journey. A culture of inquiry instills a love of learning, curiosity, and empowers children to continue exploring, questioning, and discovering throughout their lives.

Nature-Based Learning

Nature provides a rich and stimulating environment for children to explore, observe, and investigate. Nature-based learning encourages children to ask questions, make observations, and engage in inquiry-based exploration, fostering curiosity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. It fosters a sense of wonder and curiosity. Nature-based learning offers rich opportunities for integrating academic concepts across various disciplines, including science, math, language, creative arts, social skills, and emotional resilience. Spending time in nature has been shown to have numerous health benefits for children, including reduced stress, improved mood, increased physical activity, and enhanced cognitive function. Children gain many benefits from spending time in nature.

The only accredited option in the Magic Valley

Our program is one of the best in the Northwest and the only program in Southern Idaho that has completed the Idaho Stars six steps to learning - which means we not only take the safety of your children seriously, but we’re dedicated to providing the best environment possible for them to learn and play.

We are a NAEYC (National Association for the Education of Young Children) accredited facilities.

We’re open to CSI students/staff and community families. We are equipped to serve children with different abilities.

Want to enroll your child?

Schedule a tour to see if we’re a good fit and get on the waitlist (Use tabs on the left for more information about our different programs).

Relax knowing your child is getting the best care possible.

“Before we found CSI’s program, we were struggling to find the type of care that aligned with our philosophy on how children should be treated and cared for. Our son has been in the toddler lab and preschool lab classes and I can’t say enough for how much he has grown and how much we have learned as parents. 10/10 recommend!” - Amy Schutte