Family Development Center

The UCCS Family Development Center (FDC) offers a nurturing, inclusive environment where young children can learn, grow, and thrive. Serving children ages 1–5 year-round and offering enriching summer programs for elementary-aged students, FDC focuses on hands-on, play-centered experiences that encourage curiosity, creativity, and social-emotional development. Our caring team of teachers and student educators supports each child in building confidence, independence, and meaningful relationships during these critical early years.

FDC’s reach extends well beyond the children we serve. As a living learning lab, the center plays a vital role in preparing UCCS students for careers in early childhood education. Through internships and practicum experiences, future educators gain practical, in-classroom training alongside experienced professionals—turning theory into practice and passion into purpose.

Carry the Light Giving Day is your chance to directly support the growth, creativity, and development of young minds. Gifts help fulfill classroom wish lists with books, educational tools, and hands-on learning materials that spark curiosity and enrich daily learning—items that often fall outside our annual budget. Your support also celebrates the dedicated teachers and student employees who guide and inspire our students every day. Every gift makes a meaningful impact, helping create bright, engaging classrooms where young learners can thrive.