University dedicates new Child Development Lab

Carson-Newman University held a dedication ceremony on Friday, Sept. 19, opening a new chapter for its Child Development Lab (CDL). A new facility on the western edge of campus is home to a program that will continue a tradition of serving as a teacher training facility for Child and Family Studies majors. Along with preparing Carson-Newman students with real world training, the CDL will also continue its long history of providing the surrounding communities with a State of Tennessee Three-Star Early Childhood program for children ages 4-5.

“The Lord has blessed us with Board of Trustee members, leadership and partners who are committed to furthering our Christ-centered mission by making such investments in our future servant-leaders,” said University President Charles A. Fowler. “This dedication certainly celebrates the opening of an exciting new Child Development Lab. But beyond that, it represents opening new doors to the next generation of Carson-Newman students, local pre-school children, and the experiences and memories that await them.”Standing at over 6,100 square feet, the facility takes advantage of LED and natural lighting with a primary classroom that features high ceilings with gabled windows.

Carson-Newman’s CDL Director Tammy Hickle says the new facility and its improved learning space is invaluable to the program.

“The open area allows children to move freely around the classroom exploring various centers designed with developmentally appropriate experiences,” said Hickle. “The children have free choice to interact with peers and different learning materials in order to develop social, emotional, cognitive, language, and motor skills. The space also offers flexibility for us as educators to rearrange learning areas to create new interests over time.”

Inviting colors and finishes are incorporated, providing a learning environment aimed at supporting classroom instruction and atmosphere while reducing stress and anxiety. The CDL features a state-of-the-art observation room fully equipped to seat six people and provides audio and visual of the main classroom.

Highlighting the exterior is a 6,000-square-foot playground along with a portion that is covered. The area is furnished with premium playground equipment and surfaces that provide safety and accessibility to accommodate student needs.

Earlier this month, Carson-Newman announced a total fall enrollment of 2,922, marking the highest enrollment in its 174-year history.