Center for Young Children (CYC)
UM Students
We are not currently hiring for student aide positions. Please check back on April 1st for Fall 2026 applications!
The CYC is a laboratory school located on the UMD campus, offering preschool and kindergarten education to children and serving as a hands-on training site for future educators and professionals interested in working with children. Student workers and interns are an essential part of our learning community. UMD students bring energy, curiosity, and new perspectives into our classrooms while building meaningful relationships with children and teachers. Their presence allows us to provide additional individualized attention, enrich classroom activities, and strengthen the collaborative spirit.
At the same time, the CYC provides UMD students with invaluable real-world learning experiences. By working directly with young children and experienced teachers, students gain insight into child development, effective classroom practices, and the complexities of supporting diverse learners. They observe how children think, communicate, and build relationships, while developing practical skills in guidance, observation, and reflective teaching. These experiences help students connect their university coursework to authentic practice, preparing them for future careers in education, child development, psychology, and related fields.
"...because of working (at the CYC) I feel confident in my ability to work with and positively impact the lives of future children I will interact with!" - Sydney D., Human Development, Class of 2027
Student Aides
Student aide hiring for Fall 2026 semester begins April 1.
Student aides are paid, part-time employees of the CYC. These student employees provide assistance in our classrooms or front office in many ways. Classroom duties include interacting with the children throughout the day, both inside and outside, as well as helping with general housekeeping duties. In order to meet State licensing and national accreditation staffing standards, initial priority for interviews for these positions may be given to students who are majoring in education/related fields.
Instructional videos for employed students.
"From working at the CYC I continuously gain experience and new techniques for working with children. I also adore the relationships I gain with other teachers. It has also been a wonderful way to include myself in leadership development by working my up to supervising Afternoon Gathering." - Karis L., EC/ECSE, Class of 2027
Internships
Interns may be placed at the CYC when the student's course of study and career goals align with the work of the CYC. Interns at the CYC typically work the majority of their internship hours during the morning program (9am to noon), with some flexibility. Interns are required to apply for their internship and interview with CYC's Assistant Director, Anne Daniel. Internships are unpaid except when the potential intern is already a CYC employee. Typical intern duties include interacting with children, supervising small groups of children, as well as working on special projects that enable interns to accomplish personal goals.
Please complete this internship application and email it to Anne Daniel at adaniel@umd.edu.
Family Science Interns
FMSC 477 “Internship and Analysis in Family Science” students may choose to complete their 120 hour internship (required for graduation) at CYC.
Human Development Interns
EDHD 489 "Field Experiences in Human Development" students may choose to complete their 135-hour internship at the CYC.
Other Internships
Do you need to complete a different internship that you think might be a good fit for the Center for Young Children? Reach out to Anne Daniel at adaniel@umd.edu or Jen Smallwood at jsmallw1@umd.edu to inquire.
"(The CYC) is the place that helped me grow the most. I learned so much from the amazing teachers and staff at the CYC. I will cherish that experience for years to come." - Nia M., EC/ECSE Class of 2024 (Current public school teacher)
Scheduling Observations for Class Assignments
Your instructor will make arrangements with the center and let you know the dates and times available. Call the front desk at 301-405-3168 to make your reservations within those dates and times. Please fill out observation paperwork in advance of your visit.
Instructors: To arrange for your students to observe at the Center for Young Children email Jennifer Haislip or call her at 301-405-3168 prior to the start of the semester. Every student who observes must complete the observation form listed under "Scheduling Observations for Class Assignments" on this page.