Classes

WCNS offers classes for Young 2’s, Older 2’s, 3’s, and Junior Kindergarten. The curriculum is play-based and driven by the interests of children within the classroom. All domains of development (cognitive, language, fine motor, gross motor and social emotional) are incorporated intentionally into play time, small group work, classroom meetings/group time, and on-going projects both in the classroom and outside on the playground. WCNS uses the best practices in developmentally appropriate early childhood education, along with the benchmarks provided by the Illinois Early Learning Standards for Early Childhood, as a guide for our inviting and emergent classroom curriculum.

Consistency is maintained from day to day so children feel a sense of routine, predictability, and form a close classroom community. Children are welcomed to school each morning at 8:45am by our Director and Teachers. In the classrooms, teachers assist parents with separation, if needed, and integrate the children into play with their peers. Centers throughout the classroom feature diverse and rich materials for the children to experience; the books, toys, materials, games, art experiences, and activities are frequently changed, based on the interests of the children. A parent-provided nutritious snack is served each morning.  

  • Imaginative play

  • Science

  • Manipulative toys

  • Music and singing

  • Painting

  • Sensory activities

  • Socialization skills

  • Parent involvement

  • Cooking

  • Snacks

All Classes May Include:

  • Block play

  • Children’s literature

  • Circle (group) time

  • Creative movement

  • Early literacy

  • Experiential art

  • Fine motor activities

  • Free play/choice time

  • Gross motor activities

  • Outdoor play

Typical Classroom Schedule

JK

8:45               Arrival/Greeting, Outdoor Time

9:30               Transition to Indoors. Hand Washing/Bathroom

9:40               Group Gathering Time

10:00             Center Work and Snack

11:15             Dismissal inside/Transition to Extended JK

11:30             Hand washing/Lunch

12:00             Center/Project Work

12:45             Outdoor Time

1:15               Dismissal from the playground

Two & Threes

8:45               Arrival/greeting, hand washing

9:00              Indoor Exploring & Snack

10:15             Clean Up/Group Gathering Time

10:45             Outdoor Time

11:15             Dismissal from the playground