Pasadena Children’s Education Center Introduces Nature-Inspired Classrooms, Reimagining Early Learning – Pasadena Now

The Child Educational Center (CEC) in Pasadena is debuting newly renovated outdoor classrooms this Saturday, October 5, marking a significant shift toward nature-based learning for preschoolers. The grand reopening celebration underscores the Center’s commitment to playful education and its close ties to the California Institute of Technology community.

Most of the rooms have been closed since August due to renovation work.

The event, which runs from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., will transform the center at 250 and 256 South Michigan Avenue into a farmers market atmosphere. Families can explore new outdoor spaces while enjoying face painting, bubble activities and live music.

“We have been working on implementing this draft for the past few months,” said Ellen Veselack, co-executive director of the CEC.

As part of the project, Nature Explorer was tasked with transforming areas originally intended for primary school children into environments suitable for 3- to 5-year-olds.

The center’s approach emphasizes outdoor learning, with children at all CEC locations spending the majority of their day outside.

“Overall and proudly, we are a games-based program,” Veselack said. “This simply gives families the opportunity to view our beautiful outdoor area. At all of our locations we are outside most of the time.”

This renovation represents a major investment in nature-based, play-focused educational approaches that could influence early childhood education practices in the region. Since its founding in 1979, CEC has been at the forefront of early childhood education. This nationally recognized organization is known for its innovative approach that emphasizes progressive education and outdoor learning.

In keeping with its mission statement, the CEC is dedicated to promoting the physical and psychological well-being of children and sets a high standard in early care and education. The center maintains strong relationships with Caltech and serves as an important resource for the academic community.

“About 50% of our families in our program are either California Institute of Technology or Jet Propulsion Laboratory families,” Veselack noted.

With programs from preschool through 7th grade, including before- and after-school care and summer camps, the nationally recognized children’s education center serves over 650 children daily. The center operates at seven locations in Pasadena and La Cañada.

The grand reopening event, which is free and open to the entire community, offers families the opportunity to experience the center’s educational philosophy firsthand. Although no formal program is planned, there is the possibility of a brief address when Caltech Provost Dr. Tirrell is present.

To learn more about the CEC, visit