Child Development Program
The Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory (CRREL) Child Development Center (CDC) is affiliated with the U.S. Army Child, Youth, and School Services and is operated under contract with Cradle & Crayon, Inc. The CDC provides childcare services to CRREL and the Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) employees, Department of Defense families, and to the members of the local community.
The CDC provides full day care for children between the ages of six weeks and six years.
The CDC provides a safe and nurturing environment that contributes favorably to the growth and development of children. The CDC is certified annually by the U.S. Army, Department of Defense, is licensed by the State of New Hampshire and accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).
Philosophy and Curriculum
The CDC provides a warm and nurturing environment that supports the emotional, social, physical and intellectual growth of each child. Our programs for infants, toddlers and preschoolers provide opportunities for developmentally appropriate experiences that stimulate each child’s imagination and creativity. Each child progresses through the developmental stages at his or her own individual pace. It is our goal to match environments and planned program experiences to the needs of each individual child.
The CDC provides a developmentally appropriate program for all ages and incorporates the Creative Curriculum and assessments tools of Teaching Strategies, Inc., for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. Each room has a different daily schedule, which includes both active and quiet, individual and group activities carefully selected and planned to meet the individual strengths, needs and interests of each child.
The CDC is committed to helping all children:
- Develop relationships outside the family based on trust and understanding, with sensitivity to the needs of others.
- Develop a positive self-image.
- Learn self-expression.
- Take pleasure in actively learning about and exploring their environment.
- Gain self-confidence through problem solving and overcoming obstacles.
- Feel comfortable with themselves and with their surroundings.
The CDC does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, age, sex, and national origin, mental or physical handicap in administration, policies, programs or enrollment.
Hours of Operation
The CDC is open Monday through Friday from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM. The CDC closes for all Federal holidays and observances (New Years Day; Martin Luther King, Jr. Day; Washington's Birthday; Memorial Day; Independence Day; Labor Day; Columbus Day; Veterans Day; Thanksgiving; and Christmas).
Enrollment
Please make an appointment with the CDC director for you and your child to meet the staff and visit the room where your child will be enrolled. Additional visits can be arranged prior to your child’s enrollment.
Waiting List
Enrollment is on a first-come, first-serve basis with priority given to children of CRREL and other DoD personnel. If no opening is immediately available, you may place your child's name on the waiting list.
Childcare Fees
DoD patron’s fees are based on a sliding scale, and determined by the total family income (TFI). A multiple child reduction (MCR) of 15% is offered to the second and subsequent children of DoD families with more than one child in care.
DoD families are provided a vacation waiver of two or four weeks and can be taken annually at no additional charge.
Community childcare fees are based on a separate rate.
Meals and Snacks
The CDC is enrolled in the Child and Adult Care Food Program and follows the nutritional guidelines set forth by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). We provide a nutritious breakfast, lunch, and afternoon snack at no extra cost for children who are ready to participate in our food program. All food is provided by the CDC except for special diets, and menus are approved by a registered dietician.
The CDC provides one brand of powdered infant formula for you to take home and mix your infant’s bottles for consumption at the CDC. Foods for special occasions may be brought in from home provided you have discussed quantity and allergies beforehand with the CDC Food Program Manager and you bring in a list of ingredients.
Special arrangements are made for children with food allergies or religious food restrictions. You will be advised if your child's dietary needs cannot be met by the CDC and the CDC Food Program Manager can assist you with parent-provided food component substitutions.
To reach the administrative office at the center, call 603-646-4242.
CRREL Child Development Center
72 Lyme Road
Hanover, NH 03755-1290
603-646-4242
cdc-director@usace.army.mil