Center Information

The ELC doesn’t offer tours unless we can offer a family a spot in the program. This allows our daily programs to run uninterrupted. Take a look at our photo gallery to get a feel for our center.

Welcome to the ELC
Our infant program hosts up to 12 babies at a time
Our infants have the lowest teacher to child ratio
We encourage our infants to explore a wide range of food
Our Toddler Program
Playing house
Water play and sensory tables are part of the classroom
Sometimes you just need a book and a nook
Meals are served family style
Children are encouraged to learn self help skills
Our Toddler playground is softer and height appropriate for 12 to 36 months
Toddler climber
Our toddlers plant veggies in their garden space
Welcome to preschool!
Patterns=early math skills
Art
Circle time
Preschool Lunch
Our USDA approved meals have all five components
Preschool Playground
Our playground has real grass and turf to enhance the space
Our covered area so kids can play even in the rain
Sandbox
Our Center hosts its own library

Features of the Center

  • 22,000 square feet of space
  • Space for 190 children
  • “Field” experience for BC students enrolled in early childhood education, nursing, parent education, and psychology
  • An infant toddler care program
  • Family outreach and advocacy services

Project Support

Created through a collaborative effort between Bellevue College, Costco Wholesale Corporation and donations from many private donors, the Early Learning Center brings together BC programs in parent education, child care services, “field” training for child care providers and Head Start services for children from low-income families. An on-site family resource specialist also provides advocacy services for parents and families.

Many private and public contributors from the community made the ELC possible through their generous donations. The Early Center program also receives regular support from:

  • ACCESS Grant from the U.S. Department of Education
  • BC Student Government
  • City of Bellevue
  • Puget Sound ESD Head Start
  • State of Washington
  • US Department of Agriculture

Ongoing support to the Early Learning Center is extremely important. If you are interested in making a donation to support scholarships for children at the Center, or for general program support, please contact the BC Foundation for details on how to make your pledge.