Frequently Asked Questions @ MU Child Development Lab | Department of Human Development & Family Studies | College of Human Environmental Sciences | University of Missouri

The MU Child Development Lab (CDL) has developed a list of questions that are frequently asked. For additional information, please call (573) 882-4318 or contact us at cdl@missouri.edu. Thanks you for your interest.

FAQ Topics: Enrollment | Transitioning | CDL Staff | Meals | Appropriate Attire |
Field Trips | Naptime/Toilet Training | Parent Involvement

Enrollment

Who may apply for enrollment at the CDL?

Any parent may apply for enrollment. Applications are available on-site or directly through our Web site.

How long is the wait list?

CDL files application cards by date of birth. The length of the wait depends on the age of your child and when we might have an opening that will accommodate the age of your child. Some people seem to get right in, some are on the list until their child is preschool age, some families never get in (see Enrollment Policy for more information). Even though the wait may seem long, we encourage every family to apply if interested.

How often do you have openings?

Our big enrollment times are June and August (see Enrollment Policy for more information).

How will we know when there is an opening for our child?

CDL will call you when there is an opening. We will give each family 24 hours to make a decision. If we are not able to get a hold of you by contacting all phone numbers, e-mail addresses, etc., then we will move on to the next application card. So please keep the contact information on your application card current.

Do you give priority to University employees?

No, our enrollment is open to the community.

How does the CDL select children for enrollment?

See the Enrollment Policy.

Is there an application fee?

No

How often do your fees increase?

We raise rates, approximately 5 percent, every September.

What methods can I use to pay my bill?

We accept personal checks, cashier's checks or cash.

Is there a discount for University employees?

No, the only discount we offer is for siblings (5 percent).

Do you offer scholarships?

Our program primarily operates off of parent tuition so we are very limited in terms of scholarships. We accept FSD subsidy.

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Transitioning

How do I transition my child to the CDL?

If you accept an opening for your child, it will help if you and your child visit the program at least three times before your child's start date. Red Door Pre-K has an Open House every August before school starts. Blue Door teachers also conduct a home visit to get to know you and your child before the scheduled start date.

Once my child is enrolled, how does my child transition to the next program?

Our big transition times are June and August. We will do our best to accommodate your child's need to move to the preschool or school-age program during these times. If your child needs to move sooner we will do our best to accommodate this need if enrollment numbers and ratio allow.

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CDL Staff

Who are the staff at CDL?

Our teachers are full-time faculty members who are laboratory instructors and assistant instructors in the Department of Human Development and Family Studies. The staff are supervised by the CDL Director, who holds a tenure track position in the department and is also responsible for teaching and research. The student teachers are extra in terms of teacher to child ratios.

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CDL Philosophy

What is the CDL's philosophy and goals?

See CDL Philosophy

Is the CDL a licensed and accredited program?

The CDL is licensed by the Missouri Department of Health Child Care Bureau and accredited through Missouri Accreditation.

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Meals

What kinds of meals are served by the CDL?

The CDL participates in the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP), which is a federally funded program that provides monetary reimbursement to facilities that serve healthy USDA approved meals and snacks.

What meals are provided?

The CDL serves breakfast, lunch and snack.

Who prepares the meals?

The meals are provided on-site by an experienced cook and served by the teachers. The cook, staff and students all receive foodhandler training.

Can the CDL accommodate special dietary needs?

We will make every effort to accommodate children's special dietary needs within our capability.

Can I breastfeed my baby?

Yes, there are several places throughout the CDL where you can breastfeed your baby. Talk to the Blue Door teachers for more information.

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Appropriate Attire

What should my child wear?

Please dress your child in comfortable clothes and shoes. Due to messy play or messy meals, children should be dressed in clothes that can be soiled and are easily washable.

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Field Trips

Will my child be taking field trips?

Yes, with the exception of the infants and toddlers who usually take stroller rides throughout campus. The preschoolers and pre-k often take field trips with advance notice to parents. Consent for fieldtrips is provided by the parents at enrollment and updated two times a year. The CDL has two vans for transportation, fully equipped with car seats and booster seats. The van drivers also receive annual van driver training.

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Naptime and Toilet Training

Is there a naptime?

The infants nap on their own individualized schedules. Toddlers and preschoolers nap after lunch on individualized cots. Children are required to rest for one hour and after that they can get up to do quiet activities.

Is toilet training required for the preschool rooms?

No, however when your child is ready we will be happy to work with you and your child during potty training.

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Parent Involvement

How can parents be involved?

The CDL has an open door policy. We encourage parents to drop by and visit their child or observe from the booth at any time. We also encourage parents to share their culture, customs, and special talents with us and the children throughout the year. The CDL also holds several parent activities throughout the year. Be on the look out for our annual CDL picnic, parent breakfasts, parent potlucks, and parent workshops throughout the year. The CDL also publishes a newsletter every other month. Blue Door teachers send home a daily written report.

What is the Parent Advisory Council (PAC)?

PAC is made up of two parents per room. We meet monthly to provide feedback, discuss policies, and plan special events for staff appreciation. If you are interested in serving, talk to the director.

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