Worthington United Methodist Church (WUMC) opened Creative Play Center (CPC) in 1972 to serve community families with their need for high quality childcare. Since its inception, CPC has served hundreds of children in the greater Worthington community.

Creative Play Center provides children with an affirming and community-oriented program. The work of CPC teachers is inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach, a child-directed and project-based learning philosophy developed in Reggio Emilia, Italy.

CPC views children as being full of potential, curiosity, creativity, and insight. Children are active co-constructors and participants in their community. At CPC, teachers allow children to investigate ideas and create their own solutions. Teachers observe and listen to the children as they play and work. Guided by the children’s interests and ideas, teachers reflect and plan meaningful experiences, supporting children as they explore topics in-depth, which may develop into large-scale group projects.

CPC classrooms provide an environment in which children can engage in imaginative play, learn, develop a sense of self, and develop relationships within the center community. Teachers intentionally design the classrooms to create inviting and inspiring learning environments. Our classrooms are an experiential resource, a collection of materials, nature, space, and light to spark curiosity and wonder and to invite exploration and discovery.

CPC staff is dedicated to supporting the social, emotional, cognitive, and physical growth of each child in its care. By nurturing young children in all aspects of their development, teachers work to instill thoughtful, caring behaviors and a strong sense of community that builds a sound foundation for children who are ready to learn and to develop spiritually.

For information about enrollment in CPC (children ages 6 weeks to 5 years) including admission policies, schedule, tuition, and scholarship, or regarding supporting CPC through your time, talents or financial gifts, contact the CPC Director at [email protected].