HISTORY

The Family Tree Child Care Center was established in April of 1988.  We have grown from 10 children in two rooms to 150 children in four programs. The mission of The Family Tree is symbolized by the three-tier logo representing the child, the family, and the community. We provide high quality child care by meeting the needs of each individual child, while educating and assisting the family, and supporting the communities in which we serve.  The Family Tree is rooted and guided by its philosophy.  This accounts for much of the success we have experienced.  

The Family Tree provides quality services for children in warm, safe, and nurturing environments which foster individual development and creative expression. The Child Care Center offers both Preschool and Child Care services for children between the ages of one month and six years.  The School Age Program provides services for children between kindergarten entry and 14 years of age.

The Family Tree believes that people learn best when they feel competent, and have a positive sense of self. We provide an environment that supports this natural learning process and that fosters confidence by allowing each child to use his/her unique learning style to develop individual strengths. Each area/classroom is specially designed to accommodate the specific developmental needs and abilities of different age groups. All rooms have clearly designated activity centers that promote social interaction, self-confidence, and independence. Materials are organized and made available to the children to promote exploratory and productive activities along with fostering self-direction.  This allows the teachers to interact with the children and devote more time guiding the learning process rather than directing activities.

The child-to-staff ratio is low in order to facilitate this interaction and allow for individual attention.  We consider our teaching staff to be our most valuable resource and provide ongoing training and support in order to encourage their continued professional growth and development.  

THE ORGANIZATION  

The Family Tree is a non-profit corporation chartered by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts in 1988. We are licensed by the Office of Child Care Services and accept applicants regardless of race, religion, cultural heritage, political beliefs, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, and marital status. A board of directors, comprised of parents and community members governs the corporation.  Staff representatives are elected to attend the board meetings. Board meetings are held to review the work and financial status of the organization.  Board members also volunteer their professional skills to assist The Family Tree when needed.  The organization is committed to providing high quality child care which reflects the needs and expectations of the communities it serves.