CDL Frequently Asked Questions
For Families
How do I enroll my child in CDL?
Families interested in joining the CDL should complete an enrollment application. If there is not a current opening, your families will be placed on the waitlist.
Does the CDL follow CPS for snow days and inclement weather?
The CDL follows the University of Missouri calendar for all closures. They will only close for inclement weather if the University switches to remote or if they are unable to meet state mandated ratios.
Does the CDL accept Child Care subsidy?
: At this time the CDL does not accept state subsidy. Families are encouraged to still apply for our program, as some financial assistance may be available.
Does the CDL support preferential diets or allergy free diets?
The CDL is a tree nut and peanut free facility. They will work closely with your family to come up with a plan to support children with medical allergies. Families are asked to provide their child’s meals on the days allergens are present on the menu. However, if they're unable to do so, substitutes will be provided. Do to the large volume of meals cooked daily, CDL is unable to provide all meals for children with preferential diets.
How will I communicate with my child’s teacher?
The CDL utilizes the app, Learning Genie, to communicate with families. This app features instant messaging, emails, and a continuous thread for daily updates. Additionally, this app allows teachers to build educational portfolios for children throughout the school year. These portfolios are developed twice annually and are shared with families during bi-annual family teacher conferences.
Does the CDL Accept Children with Special Needs?
Yes! The CDL is a fully integrated early learning center and is prepared to partner with your family to ensure your child receives the very best early education. Therapists and other specialists are encouraged to visit our classrooms to provide are directly in your child’s classroom. Should they need it, there are separate dedicated spaces where children can meet with their providers one-on-one.
What should my child wear?
The CDL is proudly a mess friendly center. Children should be prepared for all weather and families should ensure their child has adequate clothing to change if needed. Additionally, children should wear sturdy close-toed shoes to ensure they are ready for the day’s adventure.
Do children nap at the CDL?
Yes. As a licensed center, the CDL requires all children to rest quietly for a minimum of 1 hour. After that, children are allowed to work quietly in their room or go for walks with a teacher while the rest of their class sleeps. Rest periods vary in length depending on the age of the child.
Does the CDL administer medication?
CDL staff are not trained to administer medication outside life-saving or life preserving medication. Speak directly with your child’s educational team to complete a specialized care plan prior to bringing any medications to the CDL.
Does my family have to participate in research?
No. The CDL is a learning lab, which means your child will interact with and be observed by students on daily basis. However, families do not have to engage in any research project. Participation in this portion of our programming is voluntary and consent may be withdrawn at any time.
Additional Questions
How do I work at the CDL?
The CDL hires students at the end of each semester for the following term. Students must be pursuing a career path that will later serve children and families. A minimum of one year experience is required. Full time positions will be posted on our newsfeed and the CDL's Facebook page..
How do I observe with the CDL?
Contact Miranda Clines to schedule a time to observe our classrooms. In order to observe, students must be actively enrolled with a higher learning institute (Mizzou, Columbia College, Stephens, MACC, Etc). Observation students will be asked to meet briefly with the Director to establish goals for the observation and schedule their visit.
How do I conduct research with the CDL?
Researchers wishing to recruit families and children or who wish to use the CDL facilities must first contact the CDL Director to discuss their research goals and data collection methods. All researchers must have received IRB approval prior to collecting data or recruiting participants. Additionally, CDL asks that researcher return to present their findings to the CDL team to ensure knowledge is disseminated among its staff.
Need help answering your question?
If you have questions or need additional information, please reach out to Director Miranda Clines or Associate Director Raina Cornell. They are happy to help and can assist with any inquiries.