Incorporated in 1974, the Children’s Center was founded as a means of serving local families. We opened our doors at the American Legion Hall to support the childcare needs of many in the Wolfeboro area and a year later, we renovated and moved to a new home in South Wolfeboro thanks to the efforts and materials from local volunteers. With a focus on community, we became the first mainstreamed Preschool Special Education Program to be certified by the New Hampshire Department of Education.

After a successful start, the Children’s Center expanded its parameters in 1980 and designed an Early Intervention Program for children between the ages of birth to three with/or at risk of developmental disabilities. By 1981 the building in South Wolfeboro was purchased. In 1985 a pilot infant-toddler program was started at All Saint’s Episcopal Church.

In 1986, the Children’s Center pursued and completed a Community Development Block Grant and Capital Fund Drive for the construction of a new building central to the Wolfeboro community. In 1988, a Tuition Assistance Endowment Fund was established.

in 1994, expanded construction to include an addition that would provide a permanent home to our school age population and afford us the space needed for our preschoolers. Throughout the 1990’s, we continued to advance with an accreditation from the National Academy for the Education of Young Children and a recognition by the College of Lifelong Learning for our commitment to continued professional development. We also created and operated three distinct programs to positively effect our community:

EXPAND, a summer recreational program for socially and emotionally challenged school age children.

EXPLORE, a summer school age program designed to acquaint children with the natural beauty and history of New Hampshire.

HOPE, a family service program designed to meet the needs of preschoolers experiencing social and /or emotional difficulties.

2004 was a big year that started with the Center raising $1.5M during a Mission Endowment Campaign. We developed a large garden and rock climbing area that launched us into our health and fitness initiative. We started fitness classes for all preschoolers. Guided by a nutritionist, we crafted a center-wide nutrition policy in 2007 that encouraged healthy choices, variety and appropriate portions to increase whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables. In 2008, we started energy assistance program for families in need.

Our most recent push to impact our community is through collaborations with local public and private schools. In 2013, we founded Magic Moments Preschool that comes together with the Lakes Region Technology Center to provide structured activities for the body and mind of children with the help of school-age teenagers who are highly interested in early education.  Starting in 2015, the Children’s Center started Brain Boost, an after-school program that provides students the opportunity to explore the realms of math, science and engineering. The following year we collaborated with Brewster Academy to broaden the Brain Boost program. 

We were the second place recipient of the Red Sox Foundation for the State of New Hampshire three years in a row; a charity whose mission is to make a difference in the lives of children and families in need by improving their health, education, and recreational opportunities. Here at the Children’s Center we believe one of the most important roles we have is to help children. Learning is integrated into the curriculum to be exciting and fun while addressing the child as a whole that supports their cognitive, social emotional and physical development. With a passion for child development and a commitment to our community, the Children’s Center continues to provide a stimulated and structured environment that is loving, safe and fun. 

2024 will be The Children’s Center 50th Anniversary!

Our 6 Strategic Objectives:

1. The Children’s Center will ensure access to and strong enrollment in its child care programs.

2. The Children’s Center will expand its early childhood educational program and social emotional services.

3. The Children’s Center will be a collaborative partner and ensure visibility within the community.

4. The Children’s Center will recruit and retain the highest quality caregivers, educators, and administrative staff.

5. The Children’s Center will ensure that its physical facilities are safe, well maintained, and meet program needs.

6. The Children’s Center will remain affordable for families and financially strong for the future.