Early Childhood Programs

Program Description

This program helps children develop a positive self image.  Free choice is a key part of our play-based curriculum, as children are able to develop skills at their own pace.  Areas of emphasis include socialization, self-help skills, problem solving, language development and creativity.  This program forms the foundation for a lifetime of learning and creativity.

Group Size and Teacher to Child Ratio

The Union Church Early Childhood Programs are licensed by the State of Illinois and we are accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children.  This means that we follow the group size and teacher to adult ratios that are recommended/mandated by these organizations.

The 3-Year-Old Preschool program has three teachers for 20 children.  This surpasses the requirements established by the State to provide your child with the best learning experience.

Registration and Tuition

Registration is $85 for the first child and $55 for the second child that you are enrolling.  This registration fee covers all processing expenses including postage.  This fee also includes a supply charge for consumable items that are used within the classrooms.  This registration fee is non-refundable and due at the time you register your child in the program. 

Tuition for the 3-Year-Old Preschool is:
       $275 a month for the three day a week program.
       $185 a month for the two days a week program. 

Calendar for the Beginning of the Year

After you register your child in the program you will receive information in the mail from the Union Church ECP.  This information will keep you updated on the beginning of the school year and any other information you may need.  This information will start coming to your home some time in July. 

Tours for Parents and Children:

Information on the Teachers in the Program

• Micki Slezak – Ms. Slezak has worked at the Union Church ECP since 1990.  She has been in the field of Early Childhood since 1974.  Micki has her Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Special Education from George Washington University.  “I love that the process of teaching is self-actualizing; its never stagnant or boring.  It is a creative growth process for me.”

• Mary Juska – Ms. Juska has been with the ECP for a year.  Ms. Juska’s love of children and passion for their growth and development allowed her to move from the business world to education smoothly.  “I love hearing the giggles as friends play together.  I also feel a lot of pride with the children as they discover their own independence.”

• Gayle Borel – Ms. Borel has been in the field of education since 2002 and active in various children’s ministries for more than 15 years.  She has a Master’s Degree from National Louis University in Early Childhood Education along with an IL Early Childhood teaching certificate.  “My favorite aspect of teaching is witnessing the excitement of discovery in a child’s eyes.”

Lunch Bunch Option

The Union Church Early Childhood Program offers an extension to the preschool day.  This program is designed so that parents can pick up other children or attend other programs within the ECP.  On Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 11:00-2:00 children will go to a separate classroom, after their preschool time has ended, where they will eat lunch and participate in free play.  This program also gives your child the opportunity to meet children who are enrolled in the other preschool classrooms.  The fee for this program is $95 a month for each day that you use.