Where education meets exploration
Child Development Lab
Where our Tigers thrive!
About The CDL
The MU Child Development Lab (CDL) is an educational setting for community children and a teaching and research laboratory for University students, faculty and staff.
The full-day, full-year programming provides hands-on learning opportunities through project-based learning. Children are encouraged to engage in active inquiry and investigation while educators model research-based practices. In this unique inter-generational learning space, children and students collaborate to foster a love of life-long learning.
The CDL Experience
CLASSROOMS AND EXTRACURRICULARS
From Reggio Emilia inspired classrooms to our nature based outdoor play spaces, there is a learning environment for everyone at the Child Development Lab. Our 5 classrooms are specifically designed to meet the developmental needs of children based on Piaget’s developmental theory. The children’s garden and outdoor classroom ensure children have the opportunity to engage with the natural world while supporting healthy habits.
Where learning and impact meet
Our Reach in Action
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Observation hours completed in ####
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Departments served at University of Missouri
Train with CDL
STUDENTS
Discover how you can build practical skills and gain hands-on experience working with children by training at the Child Development Lab.
OBSERVATION
Learn more about how you can participate in observation opportunities at the Child Development Lab.
Current Projects
The Child Development Lab (CDL) is home to a variety of ongoing research projects focused on understanding how children learn, grow, and interact with the world around them. Researchers across disciplines explore topics in early learning, social development, language, play, and more—bringing current research directly into the classroom environment. Whether you’re a student, educator, researcher, or family, we invite you to learn more about our current research projects and discover how you can get involved.
Where research meets early childhood practice
INFORMATION FOR RESEARCHERS
The Child Development Lab (CDL) provides a collaborative space for researchers dedicated to examining early childhood development in a high‑quality early education setting. From classroom‑based studies to observational research, the CDL supports research that expands knowledge and strengthens connections among educators, students, families, and the scientific community.
