Since 1969, The Early Childhood Center at NUMC has offered a play based, hands on, screen free preschool experience designed to honor the natural pace of childhood for children ages 2 – 5 years of age.
Our approach is simple on purpose — but there is a great deal of thought behind it. We are not rushing children. We are giving them the time and space to truly understand, explore, and grow. Children thrive when they feel safe, supported, and unhurried. That’s why our days follow a predictable, comforting routine. When children know what to expect, they can relax, feel confident, and fully engage in their learning.
We are a provider of UPK.
Our program blends:
•The Storybook Journey Curriculum, a literacy- and play-based approach built around rich literacy-based concepts that each teacher adapts to the needs and interests of their classroom
•Child-created and teacher-led activities that spark curiosity
•Hands-on literacy, science, and math woven into playful exploration
•Daily fine and large motor activities that build coordination and confidence •Small class sizes that nurture meaningful teacher and peer relationships
•A non-religious curriculum, ensuring all families feel welcome, included, and respected
•A screen-free environment that keeps learning active, social, and grounded At the heart of everything we do is the social-emotional foundation.
We help children learn how to be with others — how to share, express their feelings, solve problems, and build friendships. These skills support them today, in kindergarten, and throughout their lives.
We are also proud of our highly trained early childhood educators. Our 5 staff members have a combined 155 years of experience working with children in our school. Our teachers ensure every child receives understanding, support, and individualized attention. Their consistency and skill create a warm, stable environment where children feel known, valued, and supported every day.
Just as important, we are a community. We take the time to get to know each family and deeply value the relationships we build. Your child is not just enrolled — your family becomes part of our ECC family. That connection strengthens the learning experience and helps children feel truly at home. Real play. Real connection. Real growth.
UPK Enrolling Now!
Children who will be 4 years of age by 10-01-2026 are eligible for 15 hours of free preschool through the Colorado Universal Preschool Program (UPK).
Applications are now being accepted for the 2026-2027 UPK school year.
Go to upk.colorado.gov to apply and for more information and enter our school, "The Early Childhood Center at NUMC" as your first choice.
Business Review
“A wonderful place. This is my son's third year. The teachers create authentic connections with the kids and love what they do. This gentle school experience is a great start to any child's education experience” A.V.
“We've had the best experience at this school. Both my son and daughter have attended. The teachers are wonderful, it's very clear they love children and are dedicated to their growth and education. The space is clean, and the community you'll gain there is amazing. My son completed Universal Pre-K there and was ahead of the game for kindergarten. We are so appreciative of all this school has to offer!” P.R.
“The Early Childcare Center is truly a hidden gem. Our family has had a wonderful experience here. My oldest attended their pre-K program, and my youngest has been enrolled in preschool for the past two years and will be continuing into their pre-K program next year.
The teachers are incredibly kind, patient, and deeply experienced; many have decades of experience working with young children, and it really shows in the calm, nurturing environment they create. Our children have felt safe, supported, and genuinely loved while also being well prepared for kindergarten. We are so grateful for this school and the community they’ve built. I highly recommend the ECC at NUMC to any family looking for a high-quality, caring preschool with dedicated teachers.” S.C.
