Program Details

Our Mission

Our mission at UKids - Sunnyside is to provide an environment where children feel safe and are encouraged to explore materials, as well as their relationships with peers and adults. We believe that children learn by doing and thrive emotionally, socially, physically, and cognitively when they are actively engaged with their environment.

Our History

UKids – Sunnyside, formerly known as UKids – East Village, began as the Early Childhood Education Center (ECEC) in 1971. Established by the University of Utah’s Department of Psychology and originally located in the West Community Center, the program was funded by Student Affairs and the Associated Students of the University of Utah (ASUU). In 1972, ECEC moved to the East Community Center, and in 1989, management transitioned to University Student Apartments (USA). Years later, administrative oversight shifted to the Student Parent Support Center, where it continues today. Over time, the program grew from a part time preschool into a full service early childhood center supporting children and families across campus. In 2026, the center relocated to the University Family Sunnyside Housing community and became UKids – Sunnyside, continuing its long standing commitment to providing high quality care in a space designed to support and strengthen the university’s family community.