FAQs

What kind of experience do your teachers have?

School for Little Children’s (SLC’s) experienced and dedicated teachers are our greatest asset. Teachers are selected based on academic background and commitment to early childhood education.

What are the child/teacher ratios?

Classroom ratios exceed NAEYC and DCFS guidelines. All classrooms have two teachers and a teaching assistant.

Describe a typical day at SLC.

Children typically begin their day with free choice time in one of our classroom centers such as the loft, kitchen, or book nook. During that time, children are encouraged to participate in a classroom art project. Each classroom also has a circle time that includes singing, read-alouds, calendar, weather, felt stories etc. Gross motor play is an important part of every child’s day. Depending on weather, children play in our Bike Room, full-size gymnasium or across the street in Raymond Park. Our 3s and 4s receive weekly enrichment from our music or science instructor. Finally, class time includes a snack period, clean-up, and goodbye song.

What is the first week of school like?

Prior to the start of school, your teacher will contact you to set up a conference time when you and your child can come to visit your new classroom and meet the teachers. In the two- and three-year-old classes this is followed by a partial day, during which time half the class comes to school for one hour.

How do you handle separation difficulties?

Each case is handled individually. Some children may benefit from having a special item from home that may be a source of comfort in the classroom. Others may need a parent or caregiver to stay with them initially and then transition out. In all of our drop-off programs, the goal is to help the child make a successful transition from parent or caregiver to independence at school.

At what age does my child need to be potty trained?

Being potty trained is not a requirement for SLC programs. If your child is not yet potty trained, we ask that you include a supply of diapers and wipes in his/her school backpack. All children should plan on bringing an extra set of clothes to school in case of an accident.

My child has severe food allergies. What steps can you take to ensure that my child has a safe experience at snack time and lunch?

SLC requires parents to prepare lunches that do not contain peanuts or tree nuts for their children. In addition, the school selects and provides snacks with allergy restrictions in mind. Other allergies are handled on a class-by-class basis. Children with severe or life-threatening allergies must complete an allergy plan signed by a physician. All teachers are CPR certified and have had training in how to administer an Epi Pen.

My child has some developmental delays and may require additional assistance in the classroom. What kind of support can you offer?

School for Little Children has a long-standing inclusion program and many of our teachers have experience working with children who have special needs. We are committed to providing the necessary means and widest array of support available to ensure that children of all abilities are successful in our classrooms. Additionally, we have an ongoing relationship with local therapists at SPAAC and elsewhere who are available to provide support and assistance to our children.

What is the school’s relationship with the church?

Since 1934, School for Little Children and the First Presbyterian Church of Evanston have had a mutually supportive relationship. We share resources and classroom space. The church's support of SLC evolves out of a mission to help provide high quality early education to all community members.  SLC is an independent, 501(c)(3) organization and embraces all religions and cultural backgrounds.

What makes SLC different from other preschools?

More than just a preschool, SLC is a tight-knit community of parents, teachers and children. Many of our families have sent multiple children – and, in some cases, multiple generations – through our doors. We are proud of our long-standing roots and our reputation for providing quality preschool education in a caring setting.