Program and Visitor Information
Hours of Operation
The ECDC calendar closely parallels the academic calendar of the College of Charleston and the program is typically closed for College breaks and eight weeks during the summer. ECDC is open Monday through Friday from 7:45 am - 5:15 pm. Annual enrollment covers Fall and Spring semesters, and ECDC also offers two summer sessions during the months of May and June to currently enrolled children. The ECDC office follows the College administrative offices calendar and the director is usually onsite from 9:30 am - 5:30 pm daily.
Location
ECDC is located at 91 Wentworth Street at the southern end of campus. Drop off and pick up only parking spaces are available in front of the building and in the "P" lot directly behind it, with a current ECDC decal. Visitors may conveniently secure paid parking in the "W" parking garage on the corner of Wentworth and St. Philip. Visitors should announce themselves at the Wentworth entrance and will be buzzed in. All visitors should report to the office and will be asked to sign in and wear an identification badge while in the building.
Observing and Tours
A one-way observation booth with audio is available for each classroom and we have an open-door policy for parents, who may come and go as they wish. Observation hours for students begin the second or third full week of each semester and are from 8:30 am - 11:30 am and 3:00 pm - 4:45 pm PM. All observations, practicum activities, and tours must be pre-scheduled. Appointments may be made by contacting the office at 843.953.5631 or 843.953.5606 or ecdc@cofc.edu. More information about observation, practicum, and research opportunities is available on the Faculty and Students page.
Class Groups and Adult/Child Ratios
Children are placed in classrooms by age as of September 1 each year. We meet or exceed DSS and NAEYC adult/child ratios in all classes and class sizes are reduced if needed to accommodate special needs. Each class group is staffed by a lead teacher with a masters degree and either one or two assistants. Classes, group sizes, and adult/child ratios are as follows:
| Class Group/Room | Age Range | Maximum Group Size | Adult/Child Ratio |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seashells | 24-36 months | 12 | 1:4 |
| Sunflowers | 36-48 months | 14 | 1:7 |
| Butterflies | 4K (48-60 months) | 14 | 1:7 |
| Butterflies | Kindergarten (60-72 months) | 14 | 1:7 |
Virtual Tours
The College of Charleston has an exceptionally beautiful campus and we are fortunate to have access to all its resources and history. In our building and on our grounds, we strive to create a homelike, comfortable setting that is welcoming to our children, families, staff, and visitors. From lighting to carpeting choices, to creating a park-like setting on our playground, we attempt to create an environment that complements our campus and the cultural heritage of our city.
