Bellingham’s Standout School for Early Childhood Development
We Exceed Licensing Standards
James Place is proud to meet all the recommendations of the American Academy of Pediatrics as regards early childhood education, which tend to exceed basic licensing requirements. We are happy to provide parents with a copy of the AAP checklist when they take a pre-enrollment tour.
High Staff Ratios
While state childcare licensing standards assure safe, custodial care, at James’ Place we do more. Staffing ratios 30% – 50% beyond regulation allows us to provide many extras individually to each child.
Parent Webcam
Our parent webcam program facilitates observation of your child in his/her classroom in real time. We have found this element of our program to be reassuring for parents who can log on at any time, thus assuring themselves that their child is happy and well cared for. Signed agreement to a strict confidentiality protocol is required for participation, any violation of which will result in suspension of access to the cameras.
Bonding Room for Breastfeeding Mothers
The ability to continue breast feeding after returning to work provides ongoing health and nutritional advantages for the baby. It continues to build on the mother-infant bonding process and decreases separation anxiety for child and parent. We provide a secure, private room for a nursing mother to come and feed her infant during the work day.
In the Heart of Downtown Bellingham
We attend story hour weekly at the Bellingham Public Library, run and play on the library lawn, walk the trails around Whatcom Creek, visit the fish hatchery, tour the police and fire stations, and visit local businesses such as the Bagelry (where we get our week’s supply.) Every October we dress up and participate in the Downtown Trick or Treat event.
Specialized Learning Professionals
Mission Statement
We are committed to providing a loving and professional environment where children know they are safe, nurtured and respected as they explore our rich learning environment. James’ Place Child Development Center serves families in need of full or part time child care. We value the opportunity to get to know each of our families and help meet the developmental needs of their children.
Let Us Show You Around
We are proud of our fully licensed facility staffed with certified and experienced personnel. Let us help you meet the goal of having a worry free day while your children are cared for by loving professionals in a secure learning environment.
Ready to learn more?
Our Programs
Infants
Ages 1 to 12 months
Maximum class size = 6
Teacher Ratio: 1 - 3 children
Toddlers
Ages 12 months to 2.5 years
Maximum class size = 10
Teacher Ratio: 1 - 4 children
Preschoolers
2.5 to 5 years
Maximum class size = 7
Teacher Ratio: 1 - 5 children
News & Events
How children learn?
How do people learn? Chances are if you ask almost anyone, they will tell you they learn best by doing. This is a commonality across all ages, genders, cultures, ages and disciplines. The best way to learn to make a pie is to make a pie. One can certainly be told...
Wet, Wild, Wonderful Waterplay in Summer Childcare Programs
Summer in the Pacific Northwest is a magic time for children. Long, warm days invite outdoor play and an opportunity to cool off in the sprinkler or wading pool. Children in childcare centers are often limited in access to the joy of getting wet. Providing access to...
Toilet Training in Child Learning Centers
Child Learning Centers have a major influence in a child's experience of toilet training. Becoming "potty trained" is a major milestone in a child (and parent's) life. Being able to use the toilet like all the older members of a child's family can create a feeling of...