Bright colors, fun activities, a creative curriculum, and a dedicated, professional staff greet children each morning at Cyber Ed Learning Center in Seven Lakes.
Located in the heart of the Business Village, the facility is one of three Cyber Ed centers in Moore County, with all three earning the coveted five-star daycare license from the State of North Carolina.
But it is much more than just a daycare.
With four teachers on staff — including new director Abbie Locklear — daily programming at Cyber Ed includes a strong emphasis on early learning.
“We like to think of ourselves more of preschool than a daycare . . . but we are open all day,” explained Locklear. “To accommodate the needs of the community, we reduced the size of our space, but increased the quality of our program.”
Catering exclusively to younger children between the ages of two and five, that programming incorporates several learning strategies in a unique way.
“We like to take the best of all the curriculums available and then make them our own,” explained Cyber Ed owner, Sharyn Trinko.
Daily activities include library and learning centers with blocks, computers, math, science and music areas, plus quiet corners for reading and a regular nap time. Children bring their own lunch, but breakfast and an afternoon snack are provided.
“Children learn best when they are allowed to play and express their individuality,” said Locklear. “I believe in giving them several opportunities to express their natural, innate qualities and strengths, and I love their unique perspective on the world at this age.”
And that learning extends beyond the classroom through partnerships with local businesses and volunteers. Guest speakers bring new experiences to the children and weekly visits from the Moore County Bookmobile encourage budding young readers.
“We are a niche, but we are a part of the community,” Locklear said. “We want people to know we’re here, and that we are better than ever.”
Recently relocated to Seven Lakes North with her two young children, Locklear said she chose the community because it felt like home. She holds a bachelors degree in Child Psychology and also holds certification in Exceptional Children K-6 Education, with previous teaching experience in Georgia, South Carolina, Texas, and North Carolina.
Cyber Ed Learning Center is located at 1135 Seven Lakes Drive. The first week of tuition is free with paid registration and the facility accepts private and family-assistance program payment and also military and state subsidies. In addition, Sandhills Community College will provide assistance with daycare costs for enrolled students.
Cyber Ed is open Monday through Friday, from 7:30 am to 5:30 pm. For more information, call 673-2273.
