Mission StatementOur Mission Statement Is: Child Development, Inc. (CDI) exists to provide strong, effective, outcome-oriented programs for children and their families in Arkansas. Vision StatementOur Vision Statement Is: We aspire to develop programs that are strong, powerful, and rich in experiences that encourage learning, honor diversity, and respect the whole person and their relationship with the world around them. Value StatementOur Value Statment Is: We recognize our work with children is an investment in the future of America. We best serve children with families as partners in education, health, research, and advocacy. Developmental Child CareChild Development, Inc. participates in the Child Care Voucher Program, through the Arkansas Department of Health and Human Services. EducationEarly Childhood Education
HealthHealth Services
NutritionNutrition
ReadingReading is Fundamental
TransitionKindergarten Transition
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Executive Director Jo Ann Price Williams
Beginning 46th year with Head Start
Central Office
CDI's Central Office, |
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The agency’s child development and education program uses research-based educational models, the arts, individualized assessment of each child and the involvement of parents and teaching staff. The Creative Curriculum is the agency’s preschool curriculum. It focuses on the well-prepared environment, child-sized furniture and readily accessible materials and equipment.
Each child is required to have a physical and dental exam within 90 days of enrollment in Child Development, Inc. programs. CDI is committed to providing equal opportunities for all enrolled children to grow and learn with a healthy mind and body. When a child experiences pain or sickness, these conditions can create a barrier against learning. Examinations, early detection and appropriate referrals aid in the elimination of such barriers. Physical and dental exams given in early childhood can also help identify potential physical and oral health problems that could develop later.
CDI participates in the USDA Child Nutrition Program which provides reimbursement for meals and snacks served to enrolled children. Approximately 1,460 meals and snacks are served daily which provide up to two-thirds of each child’s daily nutritional requirements. A variety of cultural and ethnic foods are introduced regularly. Meals are served family style with emphasis placed on making mealtime an enjoyable experience.
A concentrated effort from CDI staff has translated into more books in the hands of CDI children and additional materials for Lending Libraries in each of CDI’s enters. The Reading is Fundamental program will provide an estimated 6,468 books to children ages newborn to 5 agency-wide at a cost of $12,832. RIF covers 75% of the cost, with CDI programs securing the remaining 25% through funding from local civic organizations, businesses and individuals.
Child Development, Inc. maintains written Transition Agreements with 47 schools in 35 school districts across the state. Center directors, home visitors, and the transition specialist meet with the principals, teachers, and/or counselors of each school annually to ensure the current transition process is working smoothly. Written agreements, student’s assessment scores, and strategies to increase parental involvement in the transition process are also completed at the annual meetings.
