Early Childhood and Preschool Programs

Early Childhood & Preschool Programs: (847) 490-7036

Overview

The first five years are the most formative and vital to the social, emotional and physical development of your child. To meet these needs we have established early childhood programs that enhance your child's development. The goal for your child is to develop independence and a positive self-concept in this nationally-recognized program. Qualified staff encourage curiosity and strive to develop an enjoyment for learning in each child.

Philosophy

Our preschool is a developmental program with an emphasis on social, emotional and cognitive development. Our goal is to help your child develop independence and a positive self-image. We encourage curiosity and strive to develop an enjoyment for learning. Our facilities and creative materials encourage play -- a child’s principle means of expression and problem solving. The program provides large motor activities, creative art, singing, finger-plays, rhythmic activities, stories and creative dramatics. Playing with other children, participating in group activities and learning to follow directions will help your child gain self-confidence and achieve healthy emotional development.

Curriculum

The preschool program includes both group and individual activities throughout the day. Interest centers and activity areas are available to allow the child to plan his or her free time. Kindergarten readiness skills are integrated into each day’s activities. Sound and name activities build phonemic awareness to prepare for reading. Art experiences introduce the concepts of color, shape and space. Cooking and water play explore the ideas of volume and measurements. Playdough, scissors, sand, crayons and small blocks aid in the development of fine motor skills needed for handwriting. Dramatic play and music encourage self-expression. Movement activities and outside play allow opportunity for physical development.

Staff

There are two teachers in each classroom of 20 children. Teachers work as a team. Each facility has a lead teacher who coordinates the program within that facility, and is a liaison between the other facilities to ensure programming consistency. Every preschool teacher is professionally qualified and dedicated to the education and development of each child enrolled in our program. Teachers keep current in teaching methods through training and attendance at educational seminars throughout the year.

3-year old classes

Two- and three-day programs are offered at all three centers. A four-day program is available at the Pat Shephard Center. A nurturing environment is provided for your child’s first learning experience away from family. Learning through play is a child’s principle means of discovering his or her world. Social skills, following simple directions, developing small motor skills such as cutting and gluing as well as colors and name recognition are some of our curriculum goals. Caring teachers encourage children to develop independence.

English/Japanese preschool classes

Your child's preschool experience will be enriched when he/she attends this interactive class. The teachers, one fluent in English and the other in Japanese, will join together to help children feel comfortable with both languages. If your child is not familiar with the English language, or if you want to expose your child to a new language, this class will be a great experience. Building social skills, developing independence, promoting stimulating learning opportunities are important milestones. Children must be three on or before Sept. 1.

4-year old classes

Two- and three-day programs are offered at all three centers. Building relationships is an important part of our program. Children will develop readiness skills for kindergarten, including numbers, shapes and letter recognition and developing problem-solving skills.

Gateway to Kindergarten classes

This five-day morning program is for the more mature child who has had at least one year of preschool experience. Children will develop kindergarten readiness skills and self-confidence as they master math concepts, beginning writing skills, story dictations and scientific problem solving. Exploring the community through field trips is a major component of this class.

Pre-kindergarten classes

This program is especially designed for the independent, inquisitive child. The additional day of preschool provides opportunities for children to learn beginning writing skills, story comprehension and the community through field trips.

Registration

Registrations for 2008-2009 are taken at the Pat Shephard Center only.

Eligibility (unless otherwise stated in program description)

Children who are eligible for our 4-year-old classes and will enter kindergarten in 2009 must be four years old by Sept. 1, 2008.
Children who are eligible for our 3-year-old classes and will enter kindergarten in 2010 must be three years old by Sept. 1, 2008.
All children must be able to take care of their own bathroom needs.
NO PULL-UPS unless specifically stated in individual descriptions.
Classes start the first Tuesday or Wednesday after Labor Day and end prior to Memorial Day.

How to Register

Proof of residency, a birth certificate and a non-refundable $25 registration fee with a $50 deposit is required at the time of registration. For more information on class availability, call the Pat Shephard Center at (847) 490-7036.

Program Fees

There is a $25 registration fee to enroll in all classes. A transfer fee of $15 is charged to transfer to another class. Preschool tuition can be paid in full at the time of registration or by nine scheduled payments. These are determined by length of classes registered for. See current brochure for listings or call the Shephard Center at (847) 490-7036.