First United Methodist Church has responded to the need in our community for safe, dependable early care by offering its facilities and enrichment experiences for young children in a Christian environment. The Early Care Center serves families with children ages 6 weeks through 5 years.
We are a year-round program offering full-time care for infants through 5-year-olds, as well as Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten (VPK) from August through May. Our program is accredited by the Christian Preschool Association (CPA) with strict guidelines for Christian curriculum, environment, and staff-to-child interaction standards.
The ECC has received the Gold Seal of Quality Care — the State of Florida’s recognition of providers who deliver high-quality care and education for young children. We are assessed annually using the CLASS tool for emotional support, classroom organization, and instructional support.
"We believe that the Early Care Center of First United Methodist Church is summoned by God to proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ by ministering to young children and their families."
Gold Seal of Quality Care
Florida’s highest recognition for early childhood providers — awarded for excellence in care, education, and environment.
Christian Preschool Association (CPA)
Accredited for Christian curriculum standards, classroom environment, and staff-to-child interaction quality.
CLASS Tool Assessment
Observed annually for quality of interactions in emotional support, classroom organization, and instructional support.
Early Care Center
- (941) 366-9522
- 104 S. Pineapple Ave., Sarasota, FL 34236
- Mon – Fri, 7:30am – 5:30pm
From newborns to kindergarten-ready 5-year-olds, the ECC has a program designed for every stage of early childhood. All programs include a $400 registration fee.
Infant & Toddler Care
Our infant program supports each child's individual needs with an "open door" policy — parents have total access to their child at all times. A team approach between parents and staff ensures every infant and toddler receives attentive, consistent care. We practice the Safe Sleep program and introduce developmentally appropriate activities through the Learning Center approach.
Preschool Program
A warm, loving environment where each child can grow at his or her own pace. Our preschool program provides for the physical, social, intellectual, emotional, and spiritual growth of young children. We encourage each child to develop a strong self-concept and to cooperate with others, solve problems, and make meaningful choices.
VPK — Voluntary Pre-K
Our VPK program prepares children for a smooth transition into kindergarten through early literacy, creative expression, new learning experiences, and social skill development. Child must be 4 years old by September 1.
- Safe, healthy environment
- Loving, qualified teachers
- Early literacy & creative expression
- Social opportunities & positive reinforcement
A Curriculum Built for Every Child
The foundation of our lesson plans draws from Beyond Cribs and Rattles, Beyond Centers and Circle Time, and Creative Curriculum. Our Christian elements come from Bible Zone and Hands on Bible. Florida Standards Birth to 4 and Standards for VPK provide the academic framework.
Children are assessed twice a year, and Individual Education Plans (IEPs) are incorporated into lessons as needed. Weekly curriculum sheets keep parents actively involved in what their child is exploring.
Our center promotes Christian education through prayers at meal times, praise songs, and Bible stories throughout the week. All preschoolers attend chapel and Song Squad one day a week.
Each summer, Vacation Bible School is free for all ECC children ages 3 through 5th grade.
Beyond Centers & Circle Time
Child-directed learning center approach supporting independence and exploration.
Creative Curriculum
Research-based framework for social-emotional, physical, cognitive, and language development.
Bible Zone & Hands on Bible
Age-appropriate Christian education woven throughout the week.
Florida Standards
Birth to 4 and VPK standards ensuring school readiness and developmentally appropriate outcomes.
Activities & Daily Life
While we focus on preparing your child for classroom learning, we emphasize just how much fun learning can be. Each week your child’s teacher provides a theme-based curriculum sheet so you can stay actively involved in your child’s education.
- Finger painting, creative arts & crafts
- Letters, counting, colors through themed activities
- Tasting new foods & exploring the natural world
- Singing songs including praise and worship
- Chapel service once a week for preschoolers
- Song Squad participation for preschool classes
- Free Vacation Bible School each summer (ages 3–5th grade)
Parents provide formula/milk or a nutritious lunch. The center provides nutritious mid-morning and mid-afternoon snacks. Refrigerators and microwaves are available in every classroom. Breastfeeding accommodations are happily provided.
Every ECC teacher and staff member is selected for their ability to work with young children and is held to high professional standards for training, certification, and ongoing development.
Staff Qualifications
The Christian Preschool Association (CPA) requires that each teacher of children two years and older hold one of the following credentials:
- Degree from a 2- or 4-year college with at least 6 credits in Early Childhood Education
- 6 college credits in Early Childhood and 3 years of preschool teaching experience
- Vocational Certificate in Early Childhood Education
All staff are certified in First Aid, CPR, and AED and receive 24 hours of in-service training each year. Employment is nondiscriminatory as it relates to religion, race, and national origin.
Ready to enroll your child, schedule a tour, or ask a question? Reach out to the ECC directly — we’d love to hear from you.
Have Questions? Use the form below.
Phone
Address
Sarasota, FL 34236
LICENSE
Gold Seal Accredited