Sweatt-Winter Child Care and Early Education Center

Where Learning Begins, Indoors and Out

The Sweatt-Winter Child Care and Early Education Center at the University of Maine at Farmington is a nationally accredited facility that serves as both a high-quality child care provider and a hands-on learning environment for UMF students pursuing degrees in early childhood education.

The center emphasizes nature-based education, featuring outdoor playgrounds and classrooms designed to foster children’s exploration and connection with the natural world.

Sweatt-Winter also functions as a lab school for UMF students, offering observation areas and practical teaching experiences that enhance their professional preparation.

Three children happily playing in the sand

Nurture, Grow, Thrive!

Welcome to the Sweatt-Winter Child Care and Early Education Center, where every child blossoms in a warm and welcoming environment! Imagine a place where laughter fills the air, kids explore the wonders of nature, and learning happens through play. Here, we are dedicated to shaping the future of our youngest learners while supporting busy families in Franklin County and beyond.

UMF student working along side children at the sweatt-winter facility

A Day in the Life at Sweatt-Winter

Picture your child joyfully discovering the great outdoors on our nature-based playground, surrounded by friends and caring educators. In spacious classrooms, children engage in hands-on activities that spark their curiosity and creativity. Whether they’re learning to share a meal or developing vital self-help skills, every moment is an opportunity for growth and connection. Come along!

A Brightly lit hallway within the Sweatt-Winter Facility

Find Home in our Halls

Our state-of-the-art center is more than just a place for care; it’s a vibrant community hub for families. With programs tailored for infants to early school-age children, we offer Full/Part day preschool, as well as Before/After school care. Our nurturing staff is here to ensure each child feels at home and ready to learn. Get Involved!
Two young children working with nature

Explore Nature-Based Learning

Embrace the beauty of nature with our innovative approach to education! Our classrooms are designed to mirror cozy homes, providing a safe haven for learning and exploration. We champion nature-based education, allowing children to grow through outdoor experiences that enhance their physical, social, and emotional development. Learn More!
A female student working within the Student Center at a table

Empower Future Educators

At UMF, we believe in hands-on learning for our future educators. Our center serves as a vital teaching lab, where university students get real-world experience working with children. Through observation and participation, they learn the art of nurturing young minds, ensuring that tomorrow’s educators are well-prepared and passionate about their roles. Join Us!
A group of Students happily leading a parade

A Legacy of Care & Growth

For over 30 years, the Sweatt-Winter program has been dedicated to serving families in our community. With our new facility, we continue to expand this legacy, committed to providing exceptional care and education. Our center is designed to accommodate 20 new children, including programs for infants and toddlers, while also enhancing our undergraduate and graduate early childhood education offerings. Discover More!

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For more information about the center and availability of spaces, contact Erica Thompson, Director of the Sweatt-Winter Child Care & Early Education Center, at 207-778-7482 or erica.n.thompson@maine.edu.

Sweatt-Winter Child Care and Early Education Center
University of Maine at Farmington
274 Front Street
Farmington, Maine USA 04938
tel  207-778-7480/7482
fax  207-778-7481
TYY (via Maine Relay Service) dial 711
umf.sweattwinter@maine.edu