Story by Sarah Salmons
Photo by Morgan Solomon

For families choosing an early learning program, quality matters. For students who are preparing to work with young children and families in future careers, high-quality hands-on training is critical for their professional growth. The University of Missouri Child Development Lab (CDL) is strengthening both opportunities through recognition from the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). 

NAEYC recognition signals the CDL’s commitment to high standards in early childhood education and affirms the quality, intentionality and professionalism that shape children’s experiences in its classrooms. It also reinforces the CDL’s role as a place where Mizzou students can observe and learn from high-quality early childhood practice. 

“This recognition is more than a designation; it is a reflection of the expertise, dedication and care of the people who make the CDL what it is,” said Miranda B. Clines, CDL director. “I am incredibly proud of what our community has accomplished and grateful for the commitment they bring to this work every day.” 

Achieving recognition required extensive planning, reflection, documentation and collaboration. The CDL team worked together to meet rigorous standards while strengthening its practices and fostering an environment of continuous learning and growth. 

The achievement also fulfills a significant strategic goal for the CDL: strengthening its program and positioning it as a model of high-quality early childhood practice in Missouri and beyond. 

The NAEYC recognition is an important step toward the CDL’s next goal — pursuing national accreditation. The team will build on the work that led to this achievement as it moves into the next phase of the process. 

“This is one step in our journey,” Clines said. “We are prepared to pursue the next phase with the same dedication, collaboration and commitment to excellence that made this achievement possible.” 

“This is one step in our journey,” Clines said. “We are prepared to pursue the next phase with the same dedication, collaboration and commitment to excellence that made this achievement possible.” 

The  CDL at MU welcomes students from across campus and local colleges to experience the Missouri Method. 

To learn more about how to enroll, work or train in the CDL, visit https://cdl.missouri.edu/