Program Philosophy The Blackhawk Learning Connection philosophy is quality and care is based on the importance of positive educational experiences in the early childhood years.  With this as a focus, the center attempts fulfill the following family needs: Affordability that supports the health of families by breaking the cycle of dependency and eliminating financial supplements. Accessibility to high-quality child care that builds on parents' productivity at work. Care for school-age children before and after school, as well as summer programs that reinforce and enrich the classroom experience, resulting in higher achievement and positive attitudes toward school. Community strengthening committments to welfare reform and neighborhood schools, businesses, civic organizations, philanthropic institutions, and to the understanding of neighborhood cultures and needs. Quality of care that ensures children are safe, healthy, and appropriately stimulated through language development, social interaction, problem-solving, and attention span development. Improved performance of children in school as well as of parents at work through the peace of mind that quality child care provides, promoting better attendance and productivity. Consumer awareness through parent education traning, providing awareness to parents and employers through consultation and assessment of child care needs, advocacy, and resource development to address local child care issues.