For more than 30 years Gymboree Play & Music has been encouraging creativity and building confidence in children of all ages with its nationally recognized play and music programs. The Birmingham branch is part of this wonderful organization and offers a continuous cycle of dance, art and other fun classes that parents can enjoy with their child. Gymboree offers six different classes. all age appropriate from birth up to five years old. Birmingham offers the play and learn, music, art, sports, family and school skills classes.
Babes in Toyland offers age-appropriate education and care for children ages six weeks to 12 years. Curriculum-based programs emphasize hands-on play to help children learn about the world around them. Summer camp programs are available from June through August and include field trips and numerous activities. Parents and visitors are buzzed in at the front entrance and visually identified by a staff member, and children are signed in and out at the front desk by their parent or guardian.
Diapers 2 Diplomas Learning Center is a friendly and well-established childcare facility. It serves children from infancy to school age and provides before and after care. The classes are divided by age group into five sections. Diapers 2 Diplomas has a highly qualified faculty and low child-teacher ratios. Its curriculum emphasizes social, cognitive and physical development, focusing on enriching group activities as well as quiet time. Nutritious meals are provided.
Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church is located across from East Middle School. The central focus of worship for the Orthodox Church is the Sacrament of Holy Eucharist. The Church offers a youth group called the Greek Orthodox Youth of America. It also has a women's group called Philoptochos, meaning friend of the poor. The Church offers bible study and faith enrichment classes. Sunday services are held at 10am.
An NAEYC-accredited school, Somerset Early Childhood Center includes Pre-School, Pre-Kindergarten and Enrichment classes. Located in University Presbyterian Church, but not religiously affiliated, Somerset offers a bright, clean learning environment with a fenced, outdoor playground. Teachers at Somerset are required to have a 4- year-college degree in ECE, Elementary Education or Special Education or a 4-year-degree with 12 credits in Education.
Pre-School is open to 2 1/2 to 4 year-old and students are not required to be toilet trained. Pre-Kindergarten is for students 4 years and older and Enrichment is for Young 5s or those attending their second year of Pre-K.
Somerset offers individualized scheduling, including extended care hours, to meet parents' needs.
Trinity Lutheran Church has been serving the community in Utica since 1882. From the church's humble beginings, it has grown to about 4,000 congregants and a school that teaches about 500 students a year.
The school, which credits itself with preparing students with skills to be a leader in the Christian community, offers pre-school and K - 8 programs. It also offers child care, Young 5's, (preschool and K-8 programs).
Busing is available to those who reside in the Utica Community School district.
