Early Childhood Hub

Addressing the needs for early intervention in childhood development, the Early Childhood Community Center will be a haven for gross and fine motor skill development, literacy, healthful eating and social support in an underserved area of Upper Manhattan. The ECCC will provide families a place to play, in an neighborhood with smaller apartments, a place to read, in an area underserved by Pre-K programs, and a place to cook and learn healthy eating habits, in a neighborhood with food insecurity. New mothers will receive support from the conveniently located WIC offices, receiving guidance and support on breast feeding, while parenting and arts programs will be provided in the community meeting rooms.

A large play area, with access to a roof terrace, will provided age-appropriate climbing and play equipment for crawlers, toddlers and preschoolers. The book nook is enhanced by the puppet theater where imaginative play will be encouraged. Children with special needs will be comfortable in a specially designed sensory room. Foods distributed from the food pantry will be highlighted in the teaching kitchen, where caregivers can learn how to utilize these ingredients to create healthy meals.

The project’s 11,000 GSF is part of a community facility within a newly developed high rise. The material palette selected for the ECCC focuses on the use of vibrant colors and patterns, durable, scrubbable and bleach cleanable surfaces. Selecting environmentally friendly products and incorporating a HVAC with superior filtration will ensure the space provides a safe and healthy space for the community.