The Florida Center for Early Childhood
About Us
For more than 40 years, The Florida Center for Early Childhood has been a leading provider of therapeutic services, early education, and support for the healthy development of children in southwest Florida. Our programs primarily focus on young children who are at-risk academically, socially, or economically. We offer a wide range of services, including developmental therapies, mental health counseling, and the Starfish Academy preschool located in Sarasota and North Port. Additionally, we provide Healthy Families, a home-visiting program designed to guide parents in need of assistance. As the state's only Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders clinic, we offer statewide evaluations for individuals of all ages who may have been exposed to alcohol in utero. With the growing needs in our community, The Florida Center remains committed to supporting local children and families, helping them overcome challenges and reach their full potential. Our mission is to help build strong families and expand the potential of young children. We envision a future where every child is loved, nurtured, and encouraged to reach their fullest potential. Founded in 1979, The Florida Center for Early Childhood has its roots in two respected organizations: The Family Counseling Center and the Child Development Center. In 2003, these organizations merged to create a unified entity that could better serve the community. Today, The Florida Center is nationally recognized for its excellence in early childhood development, child abuse prevention, infant and early childhood mental health, and Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders. We are proud of the impact we are making in the community and remain dedicated to continuing our mission of fostering strong families and supporting the growth and development of every child we serve.
Hours of Operation
- Monday: 8:00 AM β 5:00 PM
- Tuesday: 8:00 AM β 5:00 PM
- Wednesday: 8:00 AM β 5:00 PM
- Thursday: 8:00 AM β 5:00 PM
- Friday: 8:00 AM β 5:00 PM
- Saturday: Closed
- Sunday: Closed