Early Childhood Programs

Program Description

Within the parameters of our Kid’s Club program we have reconfigured the daily routine, staffing and curriculum to enable us to offer an exceptional preschool experience for children who are 2 years and six months by September 1st.  This program provides children with the beginning steps to knowing themselves as a learner and as a member of a group.  Children are able to work through transitions and sharing so that they are better prepared for learning in a group setting.  Teachers help children and parents work through separation.  The daily schedule includes free choice, gross motor play and group time.

This program will focus on the following goals:

• Provide a loving, caring environment that builds trust with the child and their family.
• Create an atmosphere where socialization skills can begin to be developed through a play based philosophy.
• Teachers facilitate learning as children acquire new self-help skills and increased independence.
• Develop and assist in language acquisition.
• Begin to tap into the basic concepts that children will utilize and fine tune throughout their preschool experiences.
• Provide a stimulating environment that will allow the limitless energy and wonder of a two year old to flourish.
  This program is offered either Monday/Wednesday or Tuesday/Thursday from 9-11.

Group Size and Teacher to Child Ratio

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

The Two’s Preschool program has three teachers for 20 children.

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.

Tours for Parents and Children:

The week before the program begins your family will have a scheduled time when they will be asked to come in and visit the program.  This is a time when you will be able to meet the other families who are enrolled on the same day as your child and when you will find out more about this year’s program.  During this tour we ask that you bring your child with you so that they will be able to meet their classmates.

Extended Day Option

Since the two year old preschool is functioning within our Kid’s Club program, families are able to extend their child’s day until 2:00.  From 11-2 children eat lunch, take a short rest, and engage in free play and large motor activities.  The cost for this extension is $80 a month for one extended day.  This program allows your child to spend more time at school with their friends and their teachers.

Information on the Teachers in the Program

• Judy Herbig – Ms. Judy is a teacher in the Older Kid’s Club program.  She has been with the Union Church ECP since 1992 and in the field of education since 1972.  Ms. Judy has a Bachelor’s degree from Western Illinois University.  She has been nominated for multiple teaching awards throughout her career.  “I love their eagerness for knowledge and their sense of trust in others.”

• Laurel Wood – Ms. Laurel has been with the Union Church ECP since 2002.  She is a teacher in the Older Kid’s Club program.  She has a Bachelor’s degree from Kansas State and a Master’s degree from Southern Illinois University.  “I like seeing a young child’s enthusiasm when they learn something new.  I love to see their faces light up!”

• Suzanne Kuba – Ms. Kuba has been with the Union Church ECP since 1997.  Ms. Kuba is the Lead Teacher and she has as Associates Degree from the college of Dupage along with specific training in early childhood education and school age education.  “I enjoy finding different manipulatives with which children can explore.