The Ruth Staples Child Development Laboratory is celebrating 100 years of impact with an open house planned for Friday, Oct. 10, at its space on the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s East Campus.
The event, which is open to the public, will be held from 3:30-5 p.m., with remarks at 4 p.m., at the Ruth Staples CDL at 1855 N 35th Street in Lincoln. The event will also include tours, ice cream, and the opportunity for visitors to experience the wonder of an outdoor classroom.
“For the past 100 years, the RSCDL has been honored to grow alongside Nebraska’s children, families, and early childhood teachers, building lasting connections and impacts,” said Jenny Leeper Miller, director of the Ruth Staples CDL and lecturer in child, youth and family studies. “As we celebrate this incredible milestone, we’re also dreaming big about what’s ahead. Our vision for the future includes a new building that will help us continue – and expand – our mission of education, outreach and research. We look forward to creating even more opportunities to learn, grow, and make an impact together for the next 100 years and beyond.”
In 1925, the University of Nebraska established a Nursery School under the Department of Home Economics. Its mission was to contribute to the welfare of each child enrolled by providing an environment designed to promote development from the aspects of physical and mental growth, emotional behavioral, and social adjustment. Ruth Staples, for who the CDL is now named, became the first director of what was considered one of the first laboratory schools at a university west of the Mississippi River, and provided direct guidance of the CDL for at least 27 years.
In addition to providing a high-quality educational experience for children, the Ruth Staples CDL serves as a location for hands-on learning for Husker students in early childhood education programs. Ruth Staples also provides opportunities for research on children, families, and teacher education.
Learn more about the Ruth Staples Child Development Lab at https://ruthstaplescdl.unl.edu/.
College of Education and Human Sciences
Child, Youth and Family Studies
Strong Communities
Thriving Young Children
