Executive Director
Our little house: learning through play since 1971
A bilingual, bicultural Camden center, opened in 1971 and led by Ana M. Trotter.
Plan a visitHow we see children
Children learn through play here. The Creative Curriculum approach guides the cognitive, language, social and emotional, and physical development of each young child. Socialization skills come first. Emotional growth matters just as much as letters and numbers. A child who feels steady and known begins a positive school experience, and that is the ground everything else stands on.
Teachers build the day around play. Children learn socialization skills and emotional development in small groups, with materials they choose. Teachers guide gently, letting each child take pride in what they can do. No rushing into academic knowledge. The goal is a positive attitude toward school and everything associated with learning.
The center was incorporated in 1971 as the first Hispanic bi-lingual bi-cultural childcare center licensed in the State of New Jersey. Mi Casita Day Care Center II became accredited with the National Accreditation Commission. The program is fully aligned with the Head Start Child Development and Early Learning Framework and state early learning standards. Families who want details about enrollment or eligibility can ask at the office.
What you notice in practice
Teachers work at the child's level. Each child is gently guided into learning what they can do, accepting themselves, and taking satisfaction from personal achievements. No rushing. The focus is play, socialization, and emotional growth at a pace that fits the individual child.
Rooms are set up for play and small-group learning, with space for children to choose and explore. The day moves at a child's pace, not a rushed one. The goal is a creative, lasting foundation of learning within your child.
How we work with families
At pickup, teachers share what your child did that day and how it went. Questions are answered as they come up, not saved for a meeting. Ana M. Trotter, our Executive Director, holds a Bachelors Degree from Rowan University and earned her NJ Head Teacher, Group Teacher Approval and Director Credential. She is a native of Camden, born and raised, and continues to serve families and children here.
Starting a new center is a big step, and we know it. We want to welcome every parent with open hands to our little house and congratulate them for their interest in choosing our program. The first weeks are about getting to know your child's rhythms and your family's routines. Melissa Molina, our Program Director, and the teachers are glad to talk through how your child is settling in.
The people here every day
Program Director
