Grand Rapids Early Discovery Center

Grand Rapids Early Discovery Center The Grand Rapids Early Discovery Center is a Reggio Emilia inspired early childhood school We believe that open two-way communication is best for all of us.

The Reggio Emilia approach is an innovative and inspiring approach to early childhood education. This educational philosophy is focused on preschool and primary education and is described as child centered and constructivist. Children are self-directed, engage in experiential learning, and work in environments that provoke wonder and curiosity, and experiences are driven by collaboration and relat

ionships with a focus on the process of learning, not the product. Our Mission is to continuously expand the potential of children, the experiences of educators and the involvement of parents within the diverse community of Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our Vision is to base all decisions on the principles of Reggio Emilia incorporating current research on learning as well as developmentally appropriate practice. Our Goal is to provide equitable opportunities for all children to receive quality early childhood education and we will achieve this through observing, listening and documenting, and by understanding and accepting that each child is unique and has their own way of learning. Our Philosophy is to encourage the social, emotional, physical, intellectual and aesthetic development of each child within our program on a daily basis. Children in our program are able to grow and develop in a safe, stimulating environment where their potential is appreciated. Children and adults have time to collaborate on projects and express themselves in the area of fine arts using a variety of materials and “languages.” Children are able to play and learn within the context of developmentally appropriate experiences. Our staff are made up of people who are loving, caring, and enthusiastic about children. Each child is unique, and the Early Development Center is a place where parents will find the support they need in the care and education of their children. We are honored that you have chosen us to help you in this important endeavor. You are invited and encouraged to visit and participate at any time.

Enrollment for GREDC Immaginare Preschool is now open for Fall 2026!If you or someone you know is looking for a tuition‑...
04/20/2026

Enrollment for GREDC Immaginare Preschool is now open for Fall 2026!

If you or someone you know is looking for a tuition‑free, high‑quality, Reggio‑inspired preschool, we’d love to welcome you to our GREDC Immaginare classroom this fall.

Immaginare—meaning “imagine”—is a joyful, play‑based 4‑year‑old preschool program offered in partnership with the Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP). Located inside the Child Discovery Center, our classroom gives children space to explore, create, and imagine all the possibilities of their world while learning what it means to be part of a caring community.

How to Apply
Contact Jen Brynaert at [email protected], or begin your application directly at www.preschool.kentisd.org/apply. Be sure to select GREDC Immaginare as your first choice.

Children must be 4 years old by December 1, 2026.

We’re excited to meet new families and begin imagining together this fall.

03/17/2026

Enrollment for GREDC Immaginare Preschool is open for Fall 2026!

If you or someone you know is looking for a tuition-free, quality Reggio based preschool program, please contact Jen Brynaert ([email protected],) or enroll directly at www.preschool.kentisd.org/apply and request The GREDC Immaginare classroom. Children should be 4 by December 1, 2026.

Dear Families,We’re excited to share that open enrollment for the 2026–2027 school year is now underway for incoming pre...
02/24/2026

Dear Families,
We’re excited to share that open enrollment for the 2026–2027 school year is now underway for incoming preschoolers.

If you or someone you know is looking for a Reggio‑inspired, play‑based, GSRP tuition‑free preschool, we invite you to apply for Immaginare, located inside the GR Child Discovery Center at 409 Lafayette.

To begin the enrollment process, please visit:
preschool.kentisd.org/apply

When completing the application, be sure to select “GREDC Immaginare” as your first choice for placement.

We look forward to welcoming new families into our community and supporting your child’s joyful learning journey.

Warmly,

Jen Brynaert
Program Director
Immaginare Preschool and Discovery Care

In Kent County, 4-year-olds have two no-cost early learning options. GSRP is open to all children who turn 4 by December 1, with no income requirements. Head Start is also available for 4-year-olds, but families must meet income guidelines. Both programs help children get ready for school in a fun a...

01/28/2026

The Immaginare preschool classroom located at 409 Lafayette inside the GRCDC elementary school, currently has two open spots for this school year.

If you or someone you know is looking for a high‑quality, Reggio‑inspired preschool experience, you can reach out to Jen Brynaert at [email protected] or begin the registration process through the Kent ISD at preschool.kentisd.org/apply.

Children must have turned 4 by December 2025 to be eligible. Immaginare is part of the GSRP “preschool for all” program, offering tuition‑free preschool for all families.

01/19/2026

The EDC is closed today: Monday, January 19th, due to inclement weather. Stay safe and stay warm!

09/24/2025
09/15/2025

** GREDC Immaginare Preschool is Now Enrolling**
Reggio-inspired, child-led, and full of wonder — come grow with us.

Located at 409 Lafayette SE (inside GRCDC Elementary)
Hours:
Monday, Wednesday, Thursday: 8:30 AM – 3:00 PM
Tuesday: 8:30 AM – 2:00 PM

At Immaginare, children explore, create, and connect in a warm, inclusive environment where their ideas shape the day. We believe every child is capable, curious, and full of potential.

Apply today at [preschool.kentisd.org/apply](http://preschool.kentisd.org/apply)
Be sure to select GREDC Immaginare

Questions? Contact Jen Brynaert at [email protected]

Come imagine with us — where learning is joyful and every voice matters.

06/24/2025
05/21/2025
Come join us on May 31st from 6-8pm for our annual ART AUCTION! All are welcome! Free to register and attend! Why? To ce...
05/20/2025

Come join us on May 31st from 6-8pm for our annual ART AUCTION! All are welcome! Free to register and attend!

Why?
To celebrate our creative and artistic children, teachers, and community! Local artists and organizations that share our mission and goals will be participating! All funds will go towards enhancing our outdoor learning environments!

Where?
Acrisure LLC: 100 Ottawa Avenue SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503

Please share!!

Join the GREDC family for an evening of art, food, and community to support our students and renovate our outdoor learning environments

Address

515 Jefferson Avenue SE
Grand Rapids, MI
49503

Opening Hours

Monday 7am - 6pm
Tuesday 7am - 6pm
Wednesday 7am - 6pm
Thursday 7am - 6pm
Friday 7am - 6pm

Telephone

+16164590110

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