ICRI operates three children's centers at Stanford University, serving university affiliates and their families. These centers provide innovative and high quality care and education to our families. Our programs incorporate Reggio-Emilia inspired emergent curriculum, child-led activities, and nurturing environments that will spark the natural curiosity of children from infant to preK.

NAEYC-Accredited Programs

All ICRI Stanford Centers are National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) Accredited. This accrediting body evaluates on specific standards including but not limited to Relationships, Curriculum, Teaching, Assessment of Child Progress, Health, Staff Competencies, Families, Community, Physical Environment, and Leadership and Management.

Learn more → (link to www.naeyc.org/accreditation/)

Our Philosophy & Pedagogy

Our Educational Philosophy draws from Montessori, Waldorf, and Reggio Emilia approaches, with core principles that center on viewing the child as capable and competent, nurturing a culture of care and trust, and emphasizing learning through relationships.

At ICRI, teachers set up provocations: activities or materials arranged to spark curiosity, deepen current interests, or encourage new perspectives. We're intentional about choosing open-ended materials that invite exploration and creativity, helping children develop problem-solving skills that will serve them throughout life.

In alignment with the Reggio philosophy, we see the environment as the third teacher—a space that inspires, provokes thought, and supports learning. Classrooms often include areas for dramatic play, math, science, reading, blocks, art, and writing. In addition, teachers act as co-researchers and facilitators, observing children's play to guide curriculum and posing open-ended questions to extend learning. They document experiences to make learning visible for both children and families.

Outdoor time is central to our philosophy. Our ample outdoor spaces serve as extensions of the classroom, where children connect with nature and engage in risk-benefit play—testing limits, climbing trees, creating obstacle courses, and exploring freely. We play outside rain or shine, so please dress your child comfortably and appropriately for the weather—ready for play, exploration, and the occasional muddy adventure.