We're excited to announce the  CDA Parks Child Development Center in National City was recently awarded a Quality Preschool Initiative (QPI) Grant of $246,000! This grant will help us transform the current outdoor environment (nearly 85% concrete) into a natural space that will encourage learning through nature, self-directed play, help develop gross motor skills, and be an extension of our indoor classrooms.

Two years ago, we built a similar project, known as the “ Habitat gARTen” at our Hilltop Child Development Center. Since then, we have experienced first-hand the positive learning opportunities and growth that a high quality outdoor classroom can provide not only to a child, but to a community. This grant will allow us to expand these opportunities to more low-income children and the National City community.

The Parks project is made possible through a design by Ilisa Goldman of  Rooted in Place Landscape and Architecture and Consulting and generous donations from First 5 San Diego Quality Preschool Initiative , Michael Akavan, and Bank of The West. The outdoor classroom will allow for community partners, volunteers, children and families to participate during the final phase of the build out by helping beautify and plant the garden areas. Details to come!

2016 was an amazing year for all three CDA Preschool Centers. We finalized the year with great family engagement events, including a series of parent trainings focused on children's social-emotional learning and fun holiday-themed festivites for our families. We even managed some holiday fun for our Preschool teachers and staff as well! Enjoy these photos from our recent events: