Lowry Center open house highlights summer, fall programs

To answer the needs of parents looking for a summer and fall pre-school options for their children, the Lowry Early Childhood Center will host an open house on from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 16. The open house, which will focus on 2009-2010 summer and fall programs, will take place on the first floor of Pawley Hall, located on Pioneer Drive on the Oakland University campus.

Families from OU and the surrounding community with children between the ages of 18 months and 6 years are invited to visit the center and register their children for the 2009-10 preschool programs and Lowry’s summer camp.

The summer camp will run from July 6 until August 14 in three, two-week sessions. Campers must be between the ages of 18 months and 6 years by July 6, 2009, to attend summer camp.

Participants will engage in hands-on experiences based on their interests. Themes for the summer camp include "Beyond 1, 2, 3: Exploring the World through Math,” “Creative Construction: Building and Art,” and “Exploring Nature through Science, Art and Math.” 

Graduate students who are certified teachers pursuing an early childhood endorsement will assist the Lowry teaching staff for each camp session.

Before and after care also is available from 7:30-9 a.m. and from 3:30-5:30 p.m.

Lowry also offers full- and half-day preschool programs from September through June. The Lowry Toddler and Young Preschool program serves children 18 months through 3 years, 6 months.

“The curriculum emphasizes language experiences and social interactions,” explained Holly McFaul, program director. “Toddlers engage in active learning experiences throughout the daily routine. These experiences are designed to foster development in all areas of development.”

The Lowry Preschool and Pre-Kindergarten programs serve children from 3 years to 5 years, 11 months.

“The Lowry Preschool and Pre-Kindergarten Programs are based on the philosophy that children grow and develop to their fullest capacity if given the opportunity to explore, create and problem solve,” McFaul said. “Our programs encourage reading, writing, art, music, movement and social skills. We also offer hands-on experiences to enhance the children’s understanding of math and science.”

For more information the open house or to enroll children in summer camps or preschool programs, visit the Lowry Web site or call (248) 370-4107.