Sacred Heart Schools Viewbook (2020-21) | Page 8

LEARNING IS FUN IN PRESCHOOL The world is exciting to 3- and 4-year-olds! That’s why Sacred Heart’s play-based preschool programs for pre-kindergarten and junior kindergarten encourage wonder, curiosity and discovery. Importantly, we also foster close bonds between other children and their teacher in a safe and loving environment. We cultivate independence, self-regulation, kindness and responsible decisionmaking through developmentally appropriate teaching practices. The core of our educational philosophy is that children learn by doing. Purposeful play, hands-on exploration, and interdisciplinary experiences prepare children for their journey to senior kindergarten and beyond. Each classroom has a lead teacher and a teaching assistant to help facilitate the day’s activities. Our curriculum focuses on many areas of development to encourage both cognitive and social-emotional growth in a nurturing environment that honors the needs of early childhood. The curriculum is rich in early literacy, math, science, social studies, Spanish, art, music, physical education and yoga. These foundational experiences and our thoughtfully designed play and learning spaces align with the mission of Sacred Heart Schools and the Illinois Early Learning and Development Standards. Both Pre-K and JK programs: • Are located at the Sacred Heart Preschool, 5649 N. Sheridan Rd. • Feature a full-sized gymnasium, a sensory exploration room, an adjacent outdoor playground, and ample parking for easy drop-off and pick-up • Are five days per week, Monday-Friday • Offer a choice of a morning or full-day program, and • Provide optional before-school, extended-day and summer programs. 8