Early Childhood Education
Philosophy of Education
DCS believes in the importance of providing young children with the best possible learning environment so that they arrive at Kindergarten ready and prepared to learn.
Our centers - Western Learning Center and Dixon Learning Academy - promote self-worth, self-control, and self-respect. We offer age-appropriate activities and instruction using the evidence-based Creative Curriculum to enhance each child's creative, social, physical, emotional and cognitive development. A high adult -child ratio makes it possible for children to learn and grow at their own pace. We value our relationship with parents and encourage them to attend parent -teacher meetings as well as to volunteer at events and in the classroom.
Credentials
WLC and DLA are accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), indicating that they have met rigorous quality standards for education, health, and safety. Only 10% of ALL daycare centers in the greater Philadelphia region are accredited. (watch video)
Both centers also have the highest four star rating from Keystone Stars, a state initiative to promote the quality of early learning programs.
The centers collaborate with the School District of Philadelphia serving as Pre-K Counts sites, another state initiative to ensure that children are prepared to succeed at school.
Centers
Our center facilities have been renovated and consistently upgraded over time to meet stringent building codes and the highest safety and health standards. Both centers have well-trained and nurturing staff, accept subsidy and are conveniently located near public transportation.
You are welcome to contact center staff directly to learn more or print this form for more information to arrange a tour.
Western Learning Center
1613 South Street, Philadelphia, PA 19146; 215-735-1261
The center is accessible via the Broad Street subway, the 40 and 2 bus routes. It serves:
- Young and Older Toddlers- 13 months to 35 months
- Pre-School Children-3 years to 5 years old
Western also offers an after-school enrichment program, including a full day summer camp for children- ages 6-12 years old.
Dixon Learning Academy
2201 Moore Street, Philadelphia, PA 19145; 215-334-2662
The center is accessible via the 7 and 29 bus routes.
DLA is the only accredited program in the heart of the neighborhood. It serves:
- Infants-6 weeks to 12 months
- Young and Older Toddlers-12 to 35 months
- Pre-School Children-3 to 4 years old
- Pre-Kindergarten- 4 to 5 years old
DLA also offers an after-school enrichment program, including a full day summer camp for childrem- ages 6-12 years old.
