CSL Philosophy

The Child Study Laboratory (CSL) was established by the psychology department of Arizona State University in 1972. It is one of three early childhood centers administered by the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

Philosophy

The CSL’s educational philosophy is based on the concept that children’s own natural curiosity will prompt learning. The emphasis is then on providing ample opportunity for exploration and discovery through which learning takes place. The physical setting and time blocks are arranged to stimulate open-ended creativity and experiences which provide a natural setting for facilitating the development of your child.

We provide a developmentally appropriate curriculum that is based on the premise that play is the primary medium through which young children develop intellectual, social and perceptual motor competence. In addition, curriculum activities and adult-child interactions are tailored to meet the individual needs, interests, and abilities of each child.  By utilizing the Arziona Early Learning Standards in conjunction with an Emergent curriculum, your child will not only be ready for school but have a toolkit of life skills for their future.

A place For parents

Providing for the needs of parents is an important part of our program. We welcome and encourage parent involvement. Observation facilities are open daily, and parents are always invited to visit or join their child for snack. Parent conferences are offered twice a year. We also provide a variety of educational programs (recent topics include discipline, Kindergarten readiness, peer relationships, and the development of children’s thinking) and social events for families.

A part of ASU

As part of ASU’s Department of Psychology, the CSL plays an integral role in the university’s three-fold mission of teaching, research, and service. The CSL provides carefully supervised training opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students pursuing various careers serving young children and families. The CSL children and families have a unique opportunity to participate in various research studies (participation is always voluntary). The CSL provides a model of high quality education and care for young children, and offers training opportunities and technical assistance for state and local early childhood professionals.