We love seeing innovative learning environments that empower students to grow and thrive. Recently, the University of Wisconsin–La Crosse shared an inspiring story about a space designed to evolve with learners as they advance through their education. This approach aligns perfectly with our mission to provide tools that grow with students — like our Child Care Experience™ (CCE) Program.
What is the Child Care Experience™ Program?
Our CCE program is a hands-on learning solution designed to help early childhood education and special education students connect theory to practice. Through realistic caregiving simulations, students gain experience in nurturing, supporting, and understanding the developmental needs of young children — including those with diverse abilities.
The program includes lifelike infant simulators and curriculum resources that allow students to:
- Practice inclusive caregiving approaches
- Anticipate developmental differences
- Strengthen family partnership strategies
- Build confidence in real-world child care scenarios
By providing experiential learning opportunities, the CCE program prepares future educators to create safe, supportive, and inclusive environments for all children.
Highlights from UWL’s New Learning Space
According to UWL News, the new space is designed to adapt to students’ changing needs, offering flexibility and resources that support both collaboration and independent learning.
As Val Krage, assistant professor and ECE-SPE program director, explained:
“The dolls enhance the ability of students to connect theory to practice, offering experiential learning that prepares them to support all children, including those with diverse needs… Students in the dual certification track can use the dolls to practice inclusive caregiving approaches, such as supporting sensory needs, anticipating developmental differences and strengthening family partnerships.”
This concept resonates deeply with us because our CCE program was created with the same philosophy: giving educators and students a solution that evolves as skills and confidence grow.
Why It Matters
Spaces like these — and tools like ours — help prepare students for the future by fostering creativity, problem-solving, and adaptability. We’re proud to be part of this movement toward dynamic, student-centered learning environments.
Want to learn more about how our CCE program can grow with your students? Explore the program here.
This post includes excerpts from “A Space That Grows With Them” originally published by University of Wisconsin–La Crosse News. All rights belong to the original author and publisher.
