We serve children from 6 weeks through 5 years across four age-based programs: Infant Program (6 weeks – 15 months): flexible feeding/sleeping, sensory exploration, developmental milestones support, daily report through tadpoles Toddler Program (15 months – 2 years): language development, active learning, independence building Preschool Program (2 – 3 years): potty training support, play-based curriculum, early literacy/math, friendship development, creative expression Pre-K Program (3 – 5 years): kindergarten preparation, reading/writing foundations, scientific inquiry, executive function skills All programs are available at both Lincoln Park and Logan Square locations with 2-day, 3-day, or 5-day scheduling options.

Play-based learning means we follow where children's curiosity leads. When a three-year-old asks why leaves change color, we don't pull out a worksheet—we go outside and collect leaves, sort them by color, wonder together, read books about trees, and paint with what we found. A week later, that child understands seasons not because we told them to memorize facts, but because they discovered it through their own questions. Young children are wired to learn through touching, building, creating, and experimenting. A toddler doesn't learn "more" and "less" from flashcards—they learn it by pouring water between cups or dividing crackers with friends. Our teachers create environments full of interesting materials, then pay close attention to what captures each child's interest and extend that thinking through questions, additional materials, and new experiences. The result? Children who love learning because learning feels joyful. Academic skills develop naturally, but more importantly, children develop curiosity, creativity, persistence, and confidence—the qualities that matter most for school and life success.

Absolutely. Our Pre-K graduates enter kindergarten with strong early literacy foundations, emerging writing abilities, a solid understanding of math concepts, and—most importantly—the executive function skills, confidence, and love of learning that set them up for long-term success. Kindergarten teachers consistently report that our graduates are among their most prepared students, not just academically but socially and emotionally. We teach reading, writing, and math through meaningful hands-on activities rather than worksheets. Children learn phonics through games and songs, practice writing by authoring their own books, and explore math through cooking and building. Research shows that play-based programs produce stronger kindergarten readiness than academic preschools. By focusing on curiosity, problem-solving, collaboration, and self-regulation alongside academic skills, we prepare children who are truly ready for the challenges and joys of elementary school.

At FYC, we don’t just meet state requirements, we exceed them. Our classrooms are intentionally overstaffed with consistent lead teachers, assistant teachers, and floating teachers to provide additional support, supervision, and individualized attention for every child. Low ratios mean teachers can truly know each child—their interests, temperament, developmental stage, and needs. DCFS ratios are listed below and are always maintained. Infants (6 weeks – 15 months): 1:4 ratio Toddlers (15 months – 2 years): 1:5 ratio Preschool (2 – 3 years): 1:8 ratio Pre-K (3 – 5 years): 1:10 ratio

Days/Week Monthly Rate 2 $1,323.00 3 $1,723.00 5 $2,379.00