Preschool Options at Palatine Park District

Palatine Park District offers state licensed preschools for children ages 3, 4, and 5 which provide a warm, accepting environment where learning is fun. Experienced teachers offer a variety of developmentally appropriate activities designed to help children learn and grow socially, emotionally, physically, and intellectually. Opportunities are provided to allow each child to reach their potential. Creativity and curiosity are encouraged, helping to foster a love of learning in the students enrolled in the program.

For children who were not ready for preschool in September, a Half Year Preschool option is offered beginning the week of January 7, 2013. Children need to have turned 3 or 4 by September 1, 2012 for this program. Call 847-991-1960 for availability for the different age groups and preschool locations.

Preschool for the 2013-2014 school year will be held from September 9, 2013 through May 24, 2014. Morning and afternoon options are available for various age groups throughout the week. Registration for Palatine Park District residents begins February 4, 2013 at Birchwood Recreation Center, Community Center, and Falcon Park Recreation Center. Open registration for non-residents will be held at Birchwood Recreation Center only beginning February 18, 2013.

A Preschool Preview night will be held on Thursday, January 31 from 6:00pm to 8:00pm at the four school locations:

• Birchwood: 435 W. Illinois Avenue
• Maple Park: 3216 N. Winston at Anderson
• Parkside: 262 E. Palatine Road in Community Park
• Eagle Park: 1425 N. Oak Street at Home Avenue

Preschool Preview provides parents and children with the opportunity to learn more about Palatine Park District’s state licensed preschools. Preschool staff members will be on hand to answer questions about the program, and children are welcome to attend and explore the classroom. For those who register during Preschool Preview, a discounted registration fee will be available for $20; the regular registration fee is $45. This discount is for new students only who register during Preschool Preview. A copy of the child’s birth certificate is required for registration.

In addition to the fully licensed preschool program, a wide variety of early childhood classes are also offered at Palatine Park District. From Preschool Prep, a class for those not quite ready for the full preschool environment, to cooking, art, singing, dancing, and sports, you are sure to find the perfect class for your young child. Parents Day Out is another popular option that allows children the opportunity to spend time in a group setting one morning a week while allowing parents a little time for themselves.

For complete Preschool Program details including times and fees, visit www.palatineparks.org. For program availability, call 847-991-1960. For more information about Palatine Park District Preschool, contact Preschool/Tots Coordinator, Karen Rude, at (847) 496-6239 or krude@palatineparks.org.

The mission of Palatine Park District is to provide a variety of safe, enjoyable and affordable parks and recreation facilities and activities that will enhance the quality of life by promoting good health and well-being for all residents and visitors of the Palatine Park District. 

The photos accompanying this article are from Circus Day held at Parkside Preschool. The amazing three-ring show included tightrope walking, a lion show, a bear balancing act and a circus parade. At the end of the circus, students presented their parents with a special book of projects from the first half of the school year.