University Avenue Discovery Center Preschool provides early childhood education in the heart of Madison. Educational guidance is set within a rich context of opportunities and experiences through play-based interactions. Our programs have low teacher:child ratios so that students get the individual care and attention that they deserve. Classrooms extend their knowledge through interactive field trips into the community. Nutritious whole foods are prepared for breakfast, lunch and snack onsite by our own chef with many ingredients sourced from a local organic farm. Weekly arts enrichment courses offer children opportunities to express themselves in a variety of healthy ways and to try out new roles in a safe environment. Weekly activities have included: music, dance, yoga, Spanish language and theater.  Our Preschool and 4K programs are offered Monday-Friday between 7:15 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.

Our Preschool and Four-Year-Old Kindergarten programs are guided by the same learning values.  We see each child as a unique individual with a diverse set of experiences, strengths and needs. We know that children learn best through hands-on, interactive experiences within a rich environment and developmentally appropriate opportunities to make choices regarding their learning experiences. These interactive learning experiences are taught through play-based lessons. Educators are responsible for providing necessary guidance and support within the context of play.

Through social/emotional lessons, children have the opportunity to learn how to solve problems and make appropriate choices. The goals of teaching social/emotional lessons are to assist children in making healthy choices for themselves and their peers. In addition, UADC strongly feels that a child who is proficient in the social/emotional realm will find greater success within their academic future.

Open communication between parents and educators is essential to a quality early childhood program. Parents are encouraged to help educators identify their child’s ever changing and on-going needs to help plan for valuable learning experiences which will best meet these needs. 

We are committed to a multi-cultural approach to curriculum. Educators facilitate exploration of culture among individuals and families and support and encourage children as they learn to value diversity. We welcome families to join us in learning more about individual families’ traditions and values.  

Wisconsin Shares and UW Child Care Tuition Assistance Program (CCTAP) funding are accepted. City of Madison Childcare Assistance is also accepted. Scholarships may be available for qualifying families and is based on availability of funds.