Child and older adult play Cat's Cradle

Early Learning Center

Located on the Kendal at Oberlin campus with plenty of natural woods and wetlands to explore, the Kendal Early Learning Center (KELC) provides education for preschool-aged children of families for on-site employees in Oberlin, OH and for families from the surrounding community.

Student volunteer reads to young boy

The Creative Curriculum

The Creative Curriculum for Preschool is based on five fundamental principles. They guide practice and help us understand the reasons for intentionally setting up and operating preschool programs in particular ways. These principles include:

  • Positive interactions with adults;
  • Social-emotional competence;
  • Constructive, purposeful play;
  • Interactive physical environments;
  • Teacher-family partnerships.

We are a Step Up to Quality, five-star-rated program (the highest rating) and accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). Our unique intergenerational program combined with the Creative Curriculum provides a balanced approach for young children to learn and grow. Our outdoor classroom is certified by both Wild School Site (Ohio Department of Natural Resources) and Nature Explore.

Our Intergenerational Programming

KELC’s intergenerational program has developed over the past 20 years with the strong support of Kendal at Oberlin’s resident community. Their commitment to promote a sense of community, to welcome diversity, and to embrace continuous learning is exhibited in their support of our program. It is one of their finest examples of community sharing and collaboration. Kendal and the Early Learning Center have been named a “program of distinction,” and a received a shared-site award through Generations United because of the strength of our intergenerational programming.

Video: An Introduction to the Kendal Early Learning Center

KELC director Jeni Hoover discusses the features of the Kendal Early Learning Center that set it apart from other early childhood education programs.

Call Jeni if you have questions, or would like more information .


Hours and Calendar

KELC is open daily year round from 7:00 am to 5:00pm, five days a week.  The center is only closed for Kendal at Oberlin’s scheduled holidays and for teacher in-service days.

Fees for KELC

Our Early Learning Center is a subsidized program, and fees are based on the market rates within our area. We maintain a sliding scale for all families and a contract with the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services to provide subsidized rates for families that qualify financially.

Does this sound like a good option for your child?


In addition to being an excellent Early Childhood option for Oberlin and nearby families, the Kendal Early Learning Center is a great benefit for Kendal at Oberlin staff.