Our Programs
Christ-Centered Care From Infancy Through School Age
At Gateway Christian Education Center, our programs are designed to support children at every stage. from 6 weeks through 12 years old, in a safe, structured, and faith-centered environment.
Our classrooms provide continuity of care, predictable routines, and nurturing relationships that help children feel secure and confident as they grow.
Our Approach Across All Age Groups
While each classroom is tailored to a specific stage of development, every program at GCEC is guided by the same principles outlined in our Parent Handbook:
Children are a precious gift from God, created in His image.
Learning happens best through play, exploration, and meaningful relationships.
Positive, grace-filled guidance helps children build self-control and responsibility.
Faith is gently introduced through prayer, worship, Bible teaching, and daily modeling of Christlike character.
Parents are a child’s first teachers, and partnership with families is essential.
We intentionally support social, emotional, cognitive, physical, and spiritual development in age-appropriate ways.
Infant & Early Toddler Care
6 Weeks – 24 Months
Our infant care program provides a calm, attentive environment where babies experience consistent routines and nurturing relationships.
Classrooms include:
Newborns (6 weeks – 6 months)
Infants (6 – 12 months)
Waddlers (12 – 15 months)
Tots (15 – 18 months)
Toddlers (18 – 24 months)
Developmental Focus
Secure attachments with caregivers
Sensory exploration and motor development
Early language exposure
Gentle introduction to group routines
Daily Experiences
Responsive feeding and diapering schedules
Floor play and safe exploration
Music and simple movement activities
Age-appropriate Bible songs and prayer
Our caregivers provide consistent supervision and individualized attention to ensure each child feels safe and supported during these foundational months.
Twos Program
24 – 36 Months
This stage is marked by rapid growth in language, independence, and emotional development.
Classrooms include:
Little Twos (24 – 30 months)
Big Twos (30 – 36 months)
Developmental Focus
Expanding vocabulary and communication
Early problem-solving
Learning to follow routines
Beginning cooperative play
Daily Experiences
Circle time and simple Bible lessons
Hands-on art and sensory play
Structured gross motor activities
Guided social interaction
Children are supported with positive guidance as they begin learning responsibility and self-control.
Preschool & Pre-K
3 – 5 Years
Our Christian preschool program in WV is designed to prepare children academically and socially for kindergarten while nurturing spiritual growth.
Classrooms include:
Little Twos (24 – 30 months)
Big Twos (30 – 36 months)
Developmental Focus
Early literacy and pre-reading skills
Number recognition and early math concepts
Social cooperation and conflict resolution
Growing independence and responsibility
Daily Experiences
Small group learning activities
Art, center play, and gross motor time
Bible teaching and prayer
Structured rest time
We use developmental observation tools, including the Ages and Stages Questionnaire (ASQ), to support readiness and guide classroom transitions.
After School Care
6 – 12 Years
Our after school care in St Albans provides a structured and supervised environment for elementary-aged children.
We provide transportation from approved local elementary schools (pending availability).
Program Focus:
Homework time
Social development
Supervised recreation
Continued faith-based encouragement
Children benefit from consistency in a familiar environment that supports both responsibility and healthy peer relationships.
Summer Program
Elementary Ages (6 – 12 Years)
Our Summer Program corresponds with Kanawha County School’s summer break and provides a structured, engaging experience for school-age children.
Because space is limited, summer enrollment fills quickly, and families are encouraged to inquire early.
Each week features themed lesson plans designed to keep children active and learning through:
Arts and crafts
Science experiments
Group activities
Children also participate in weekly field trips such as:
The Clay Center
The City Pool
Bowling outings
Other local activities
The goal is to provide a balance of fun, learning, social connection, and continued faith-based guidance within a safe and familiar environment.
Transitions Between Classrooms
We understand that transitions can feel big for children and families. Movement between classrooms is intentional and based on:
Age
Space availability
Physical, social, and emotional readiness
Transitioning includes:
Visits to the new classroom
Communication with families
Teacher-to-teacher information sharing
Ongoing support during adjustment
Our goal is to make each transition smooth, reassuring, and developmentally appropriate.
Ready to Learn More?
We invite you to explore enrollment availability and see how Gateway Christian Education Center can support your family through every stage of childhood.
