GJK has a play-based philosophy.We work closely with the Glencoe School District to ensure that our children are prepared for entry into kindergarten and we meet with South School staff to assist with kindergarten placement.
This interactive class is for parent/caregiver and toddlers. The teacher designs a classroom rich with fine/gross motor activities, music, art, and sensory experiences. Each week, children have an opportunity to explore the classroom, with a parent or caregiver, and discover the fun of interacting in a social environment. Parents have time to interact and meet other parents, while participating in engaging activities with their child.
Who: Children who are 18 months old by September.
When: Tuesday & Thursday, 9:30–10:30 a.m.
Min./Max.: 6–12 children plus parents/caregivers.
Designed for the child who is ready for independent play time with peers, this class incorporates activities that foster development in children and encourage learning through play. Children participate in art activities, sensory experiences, gym time, music, and other activities. The class is staffed to assist children in the beginning of the school year with separation from their parent. There is a 12-child maximum with two teachers and an aide at the beginning of the program.
Who: Children who are 2 years old by by September.
When: Monday, Wednesday, & Friday, 9:15-10:45 a.m.
Min./Max.: 6–12 per section
This class is designeed to help the child new to the school setting. The school year begins with the parent and child together in class, with transition to a child-only class. On the first day, children are introduced to the routines associated with school such as: group time, free play, art and sensory activities. Teachers work with the parent to determine an individual transition process that is appropriate for the child. Children spend the day learning through play!
Who: Children who are 2 years old by by September.
When: Tuesday, & Thursday, 9:15-10:45 a.m.
Min./Max.: 6–12 per class.
Our three-year-old program provides a rich learning environment for children in a play setting. Children will discover their world through science,math, early literacy, block play, gross motor activities, art activities, and much more. A main goal of this class is to encourage positive peer interactions and to foster self-esteem. Children are taught, through example, to interact with their peers and are encouraged to negotiate interactions with others. Children do not need to be fully toilet trained by the beginning of the school year.
GJK offers extended day for our currently enrolled three-year-olds. Children enrolled in the enrichment programs will spend their afternoon enjoying lunch with Fridayends from their class and engaging in enriching and fun activities. Classes are taught by our expert teachers and are an extension of the curriculum in the three-year-old program.
Extended day classes are offered to supplement our 3-year-old classes from 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. each day.
Who: Children who are 3 years old by September 1, 2009
When: Monday–Friday, 9:00–11:15 a.m.
Min./Max.: 20–32 total; 10–16 per class.
Special instruction in areas such as Spanish, math, art, science, and movement!
The four-year-old program is designed to further a child’s development in all areas. Through play we help children discover the fun of counting, sorting, and measuring. We encourage pre-reading skills, create a literacyrich environment and encourage children to begin experimenting with sound recognition. Children work together to complete projects which reinforce teamwork and cooperation. We work closely with Glencoe School District to ensure that we are preparing our children for kindergarten. All four-year-olds have an opportunity to participate in “specialized instruction” during the day such as Spanish, math, music, art, and science. Our goal for children completing the four-year-old program is to foster a love of learning, to encourage respect for themselves and others, and to help build great self-esteem.
This program is unique in this community as it meets for four hours a day and catered lunch is included daily.
Extended day classes are offered before school as a supplement to the 4-year-old program.
Who: Children who are 4 years old by September.
When: Monday–Friday, 11:30–3:30 p.m. (Catered lunch provided)
Min./Max.: 20–36 children total; 10–18 children per class.