What’s in a Name? Daycare, Preschool, or Child Care?
By Nicole Shadduck, Education Director
Over the years, I’ve noticed that many adults use the terms daycare, preschool, and child care interchangeably. And it’s true! Programs for young children are often grouped under these labels, along with others like school, nursery, or center. But does the name really matter?
For me, the answer is a clear and enthusiastic yes.
Whether I’m talking with prospective families, sharing information at community events, welcoming new teachers, or chatting with friends and family, this question comes up again and again. And while I’ll try not to stand on my soapbox for too long, what follows is shaped by years of experience, education, and reflection. (If you’d ever like to go deeper, I’d love to talk and hear your perspectives, too.)
If I had to choose just one term to describe The Children’s School in 2025—drumroll, please—it would be child care.
Why? Because we care for children and we educate them.
That may sound simple, but it goes to the very heart of who we are and what we do at TCS.
What “Child Care” Means at TCS
At The Children’s School, care and education are inseparable. Here’s what that looks like in practice:
- Deep knowledge of early childhood development. Our teachers are highly educated professionals who understand child development theory, philosophy, developmental milestones, and effective strategies for supporting learning. This knowledge guides thoughtful decision-making every day.
- Knowing each child well. Relationships are foundational at TCS. Small class sizes and consistent teaching teams allow teachers and children to truly know one another. The richest learning happens when children feel seen, understood, and engaged in meaningful, authentic experiences.
Why Not “Daycare” or “Preschool”?
Before going further, an important disclaimer: there are wonderful programs that identify as daycares and preschools. These terms are not inherently good or bad, and there is no one-size-fits-all definition. What follows reflects patterns I’ve often encountered, not universal truths.
Daycare, as I’ve frequently seen it used, emphasizes care. Children are supervised by teachers, provided with activities, materials, and a safe place to spend their day. However, the intentional planning of learning experiences, the continuity of growth, and the cultivation of children as intrinsically motivated learners can sometimes be underdeveloped.
Preschool, on the other hand, often emphasizes education. There are lessons, activities, materials, and learning goals. But when education becomes the sole focus, attention to social relationships, emotional well-being, and creative expression can sometimes fall away.
Why the Name Matters
Our name—The Children’s School of Boise—was chosen thoughtfully by Mary Clagett Smith. It reflects the belief that this is a school for children. In 2025, the work we do here is best described as child care in its fullest sense: a balanced, intentional integration of caring relationships and meaningful education.
Mary’s writings, along with our Mission, Vision, Goals for the School, and Four Goals for Children, describe the many nuances of what happens here each day—often in ways that are subtle, relational, and deeply human.
I hope this brief reflection has been thought-provoking and helpful. If you’re curious to learn more about what children experience at TCS—and why—we invite you to keep an eye on our blog and social media, where we’ll continue sharing stories from the life of our school.