Preschool Programs

Philosophy
Play, once considered to be the opposite of education, is now regarded by early childhood specialists as the extraordinary educational process by which preschool children become introduced to a world filled with new and exciting discoveries. Play is the primary concern of the preschool staff because it is the primary concern of the preschool child. Encouraging children to express themselves freely, to communicate with others, and to follow their natural instincts of discovery are all goals of the BTPD preschool programs. The Bourbonnais Township Park District staff, committed to a philosophy of "learning through play," are qualified to lead children through this exciting life period.

Registration
Proof of residency, a birth certificate and a non-refundable $35 registration fee is required at the time of registration if registered before Septmeber 5. After Septmeber 5, registration fee is $50. Completed background forms, health form and immunizations required for DPT, Polio, TB, MMR (must be completed by a physician) due by the 1st day of class. All participants must be 3 or 4 years old on or by September 1, 2009 for fall sessions. There will be no exceptions to age requirement. All children entering the 3 and 4 year old program must be toilet trained. Please schedule a time to stop in to see the facility, classrooms, teachers, and to pick up information packets and information folder. Our preschool programs fill up fast so please call or stop in the check availability. Check out our Preschool Registration Preparation Page to to make your registration quick and easy!

Early Learning Station Preschool Programs
The Early Learning Station program promotes an environment that fosters critical thinking, problem solving skills, and social development taught through alphabet and seasonal themes.  This allows the child to grow in self-confidence, independence and security along with instilling a love of learning.  Qualified experienced teachers instruct the programs.  Illinois Early Learning Standards are applied to curriculum lessons.  Sign up early, classes are limited to allow for a low student-teacher ratio.  Children must be toilet trained prior to the first day of class.  Sessions are divided according to age.  Child must be 3 or 4 by September 1, 2009.

A specially designed hands-on curriculum includes:

  Phonics & Reading                         Art & Craft Projects
        Math & Science Projects              Educational Field Trips
    Music & Movement

Unique features include use of Exploration Station... a Children’s Museum, Willowhaven Interpretive Center and Perry Farm Park.

Instructor: Early Learning Station Staff         $35 non-refundable fee and
Location: Recreation Station                        copy of birth certificate due at registration
Min/Max: 6/14 per session

Children attending a program may, for an additional fee, participate in the Early Morning Round Up, Play and Learn or Afternoon Adventure programs starting at 7:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m.

Check out our new Lunch Buddy program and have your child stay for lunch at the park district!!!  Ask how.

Tuesday/Thursday Program
Morning Session OR Afternoon Session     Times(s): 8:45-11:00 a.m. OR 12:45-3:00 p.m.
Fee:  Resident $80/Non-Resident $95 per session

Date(s):  Tuesdays & Thursdays
Session I – September 8 – September 29      
Session II – October 1 – October 22            
Session III – October 27 – November 17           
Session IV – November 19 – December 15        
Session V – December 17 – January 21                      
Session VI – January 26 – February 16                
Session VII – February 18 – March 11                   
Session VIII – March 16 – April 6                           
Session lX - April 8 – May 18                                                                  

Monday/Wednesday/Friday Program
Morning Session OR Afternoon Session Times(s): 8:45-11:00 a.m. OR 12:45-3:00 p.m.
Fee:  Resident $117/Non-Resident $140 per session

Dates: Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays
Session I – September 9 – September 30         
Session II - October 2 – October 23                                                   
Session III – October 26 – November 16         
Session IV - November 18 – December 11  
Session V –December 14 – January 20           
Session VI – January 22 – February 12       
Session VII – February 15 – March 8           
Session Vlll – March 10 – March 31            
Session IX – April 2 – May 14     

Monday-Friday Program
Morning Session OR Afternoon Session Times(s): 8:45-11:00 a.m. OR 12:45-3:00 p.m.
Fee:  Resident $195/Non-Resident $235 per session

Dates: Mondays-Fridays
Session I – September 8 – September 30         
Session II - October 1 – October 26                                                   
Session III – October 27 – November 19         
Session IV - November 22 – December 16  
Session V –January 3 – January 26           
Session VI – January 27 – February 21       
Session VII – February 22 – March 17           
Session Vlll – March 18 – April 13           
Session IX – April 14 – May 14                               

School holidays will be announced through out the year, including a
Winter break and Spring break
*Monthly Program – No Contracts
** Snow dates will not be made up.

Our Program Goals
3 Year Old Preschool
The 3-year old curriculum fosters socialization and independence. Through teacher-guided activities, children learn to follow directions and share with others. Activities introduce shape, number and color recognition and large motor skills are enhanced through outdoor and gym play.

4 and 5 Year Old Preschool
In the 4 and 5 year old program, children prepare for Kindergarten through continued exposure to letters, numbers, colors and shapes in a low-key setting.

For more information on program dates and times please check out our Preschool Program Page.
If you would like to learn more about our preschool programs, or schedule an observation, please contact Lisa Milton at (815) 933-9905.