Early Start (formerly School Readiness)

Rhonda Knight, MA.Ed, School Readiness Coordinator

Phone: 203-630-4222 

Email: rknight@meridenct.gov

Click here to be redirected to Meriden Early Learning Connection meeting agendas and minutes (under Early Start).

Meriden Early Learning Connection (MELC) provides affordable, high-quality early education and care for children from infancy through age five who are not yet eligible for kindergarten. Our CT Early Start programs support children’s growth and development, ensuring they are ready to enter kindergarten and become life-long learners.

Program Highlights

·         Age-Appropriate Classrooms: Full- and part-day options for infants, toddlers, and preschool-aged children, tailored to each child’s developmental needs.

·         Evidence-Based Curriculum: Play-based and literacy-focused activities designed to promote school readiness.

·         Skilled Early Childhood Staff: All staff are trained in current early childhood trends and foundational practices.

Affordable Sliding-Scale Fees: Fees are determined by a sliding scale based on gross annual income and family size, making high-quality care accessible to all families.

Click on the links below to learn more about the current child care locations in Meriden. Please call each center to schedule a visit.

Catholic Charities: St. Stanislaus School Readiness - 81 Akron Street -  203-238-0845

Easter Seals Children's Academy- 125 Broad Street - 203-686-1438

First Congregational Preschool - 62 Colony Street - 203-634-8886

YMCA Programs: 

 The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) is the accrediting body for child care centers world-wide.

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