Early Childhood Programs

Program Description

This program helps to build trust and separation concepts.  A group facilitator meets with the mothers throughout the year to discuss a variety of topics regarding children, family and self.  The children’s activities emphasize social interaction, awareness of others, conflict resolution and early language development.  Mother Child provides opportunities for growth and making new friends for both mothers and children.

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.   In the classroom where the children are there is a teacher to child ratio of 11 children with 2 teachers.

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:

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. 

Orientation and Tours for Parents and Children:

The week before the program begins you will have a scheduled time when you will be asked to come in for orientation.  This is a time when you will be able to meet the other mothers who are enrolled and when you will find out more about this year’s program.  This is for mothers only – no childcare is provided.   During the tour we ask that you bring your child with you so that they will be able to meet their classmates.

Information on the Teachers in the Program

Beth Bozeman – Ms. Bozeman has been with the ECP since 2002.  She attended school at the University of Puget Sound.  Beth was first introduced to the program as a parent and had since joined the staff.  “I love the way children soak-up new information like little sponges.  Just watching them explore, and learn makes me smile.”

Sandy Poor – Ms. Poor has been with the Union Church ECP since 2003.    She has a Bachelor’s degree from Indiana University.  “I love watching children discover their control over their own environment and seeing their joy as they discover more things that they can do themselves.” 

Jody Bilstrom – Jody has been with the ECP for the last two years.  Prior to becoming the facilitator, she was a parent of the ECP and has enjoyed the Mother Child program from that perspective.  Her love and dedication to this program make her a fantastic facilitator.  Jody has a Bachelor of Arts in Social Welfare from the University of Wisconsin and a Master of Social Work from the University of Illinois.