Park District of Oak Park

32 Young children are naturally very curious about the world around them, and they are capable of learning a great deal about its workings. Early childhood teachers provide developmentally-appropriate education that can open an exciting new world for your child. In addition to strengthening socialization skills – how to compromise, how to be respectful of others, and problem-solve – early learning programs provide a place where your child can gain a sense of self, explore, play with his or her peers, and build confidence! Quality early education balances structured learning time in literacy, math and science with other activities such as arts & crafts, singing, and exploration play. Early childhood programming gives your child an opportunity to learn an approach to education that can last a lifetime. Our caring and committed teachers provide a safe, comforting and positive classroom environment for your child. The early childhood programs focus on preparing your child for preschool, kindergarten and beyond, introducing them to an approach to learning that they can carry with them throughout their schooling years. All of our teachers are required to take 15 hours of continuing education in early childhood yearly. Each of our staffers has successfully completed a background check and are required to have active First Aid and CPR certifications. We pride ourselves on the quality of our staff. Many of our teachers have been with us for several years, while others possess teaching certificates of their own. Playschool, Preschool, & Pre-Kindergarten Information These programs are NOT a part of the Lottery, and are first-come, first served. Registration for the current year must be done in person, see page 4 for our registration sites and hours. Priority Registration Feb 2 - 21 for families currently enrolled in Preschool or Playschool Age Requirements: Children must be the minimum age by the first day of attendance. Registration is on-going. Last day of school: Friday, May 22, 2015 (ends before Memorial Day) No School Days: The Park District Playschool, Preschool & Pre-Kindergarten Programs follow District 97's no school day calendar. Please note our schools may be closed additional dates due to voting at our community centers. When registering non-attendance dates WILL NOT appear on your receipt. A calendar of these dates will be part of the paperwork packet emailed to you. Paperwork: Paperwork packets will be emailed to you, and must be filled out prior to to start date. Prior to the start of school we will be holding an Open House/ Welcome Night at each of our centers. We ask that you bring your child to visit their new school, meet their teachers, learn the class schedule, and turn in ALL paperwork; this will give them an opportunity to familiarize themselves with the classroom and teachers prior to their first day of school. OPEN HOUSE/WELCOME NIGHTS Jan 20 for all current and new families Administration Fee: The non-refundable administration fee of $50 aids in covering the program costs of things like: postage, newsletters & calendars, copy paper & ink, laminating, and processing fees. What is the difference between All Ages Preschool 3-5 year olds and 3-4 year old Preschool? The main difference is the age span of the children. Between ages 3-5, children develop rapidly and at different rates; however there are early childhood developmental milestones to be met along the way. In the age specific program (3-4 year olds) teachers will focus their curriculum planning and student assessment on the developmental milestones for 3-4 year olds. The All Ages Preschool curriculum will be more general and broad to meet the wide span of developmental stages within the classroom and students ages 3-5. What makes one program better than the other? What makes one program better than the other is dependent on the needs of each individual child and family. Parents/guardians know their child(ren) better than anyone and can determine what environment will be best for their child's current and future success! Through age-appropriate play we create a nurturing environment that provides young children an opportunity to develop socially emotionally and cognitively through hands on exploration, experimentation and socialization. EARLY CHILDHOOD Why Early Childhood Learning Matters Priority Registration Feb 3 - 21 for families currently enrolled in Preschool or Playschool 32

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