Our History

A Century of Impact

As part of the Human Development and Family Science department, the Child Development Lab (CDL) has played a significant role at the University of Missouri for more than a century.

From Observation to Professional Preparation

Foundations of the CDL

In the 1920s, the department—then known as Home Economics—established a laboratory attended by young children to provide students with opportunities to observe child behavior. During World War II, the Home Economics department introduced a two‑year child care course in response to “the demand for young women to aid in caring for children of working mothers.” In the 1950s, the Child Care and Development major (later renamed Child Development and Family Life) was established, with the CDL continuing to support student learning through observation and practicum experiences.

A color postcard image of Gwynn Hall, a brick and mortar building, from the 1920s that housed the Home Economics Department and the Child Development Lab.

Expanding Space for Learning and Research

Evolving Locations

As departmental programs expanded, the location of the CDL evolved to meet growing needs. The Lab was originally housed in Gwynn Hall before relocating to Army barracks east of Memorial Union, where the first graduate student research was conducted on children’s television viewing. In the 1960s, the CDL moved into the newly completed Stanley Hall, where it remains today.

Mizzou's mascot Truman the Tiger plays with young children outside on the playground of the Child Development Lab prior to being remodeled in 2025.

Enhancing Spaces for Children and Learning

Growth and Renewal

Although the Lab continues to operate in Stanley Hall, it has undergone multiple expansion and renovation projects to better serve young children and the University community. In 2014, the CDL Tot Lot playground was renovated, which included the removal of the tree house play structure.

In 2025, the CDL completed a large‑scale renovation that updated the preschool playground including the outdoor classroom space and bike path, while also adding a new greenhouse. Indoor spaces were also enhanced through the renovation of the Green, Yellow, and Blue Door classrooms, as well as the addition of the Purple Door classroom designed for four‑ and five‑year‑olds. A new library space was created to support early literacy, and observation booths were upgraded to improve accessibility. The Lab also added an assessment room for use by CDL staff and members of the University community.

A greenhouse in the outdoor classroom at the Child Development Center.

Guiding the CDL Through the Years

Leadership Legacy

2022-Current: Miranda Clines, MA

2014-2022: Michelle Mathews. Ph.D.

2007-2014: Jesse Bradley, MS

2004-2007: Mary Cherian, PhD

2003-2004: Interim Director, Michelle Mathews, PhD

1996-1997: Interim Co-Directors Barb Hammerli and Michelle Mathews, PhD

1981-2003: Kathy Thornburg, PhD

A woman reads a book to young children at the Child Development Lab.

CDL Recognized for Demonstrating Quality

A Statewide First

In 2025, the CDL achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first early childhood program in Missouri to earn recognition for “demonstrating quality” through the Office of Childhood’s Quality Assurance Report (QAR), a statewide system that recognizes high‑quality early learning and education programs.

An early childhood professional receives an award recognizing the Child Development Lab for demonstrating quality through the Quality Assurance Report program at an outdoor ceremony.