Auburn College of Education opens registration to Early Childhood Summer Enrichment Program as it doubles capacity and expands age eligibility

For more than 25 years, the Early Childhood Summer Enrichment Program has served as a signature outreach initiative of the Early Childhood Teacher Education Program in Auburn’s College of Education. The program is staffed by lead teachers, graduate assistants and undergraduate teacher candidates who design and guide child-centered learning experiences.

The program’s curriculum emphasizes active, inquiry-based learning. Children engage in a balance of play, project work and exploration across science, the arts, early literacy and mathematical reasoning. Daily activities invite children to choose from thoughtfully prepared learning centers, interact with hands-on materials and pursue projects that emerge from their own interests. Teacher candidates observe and document children’s learning, using those observations to extend and deepen engagement.

At a time when opportunities for child-directed play are declining in many settings, Auburn’s Summer Enrichment Program remains committed to supporting play as a central driver of healthy development. The program fosters academic growth, social-emotional learning and positive peer relationships while also serving as a training ground for future educators.

With expanded capacity and a new state-of-the-art learning environment, the 2026 program is positioned to serve more families than ever.

Registration is now open, and spaces are expected to fill quickly. Families can learn more and register through the Early Childhood Summer Enrichment Program website.