Early Childhood Education in Oak Brook: Building Bright Futures from the Start

In Oak Brook, quality early childhood education sets the foundation for lifelong learning. We’ve watched hundreds of children walk through our doors nervous on their first day, then skip out months later singing songs and showing off artwork. That transformation never gets old.

Our preschool programs help children ages 3–5 develop the social, emotional and academic skills they need to thrive. This page covers what you can expect from our curriculum, daily routines, and how we prepare your child for kindergarten success. We’ll share what we’ve learned from 40 years of teaching Oak Brook families.

Tours are available year-round at Christ Church Preschool. Enrollment for fall classes starts in January. We create nurturing environments where your child feels safe, valued and excited to learn.

Illinois Licensing Requirements Ensure Safe, Structured Preschool Environments

When you’re leaving your child somewhere for the first time, you need to know they’re safe. We get it. Parents researching licensed preschools in Oakbrook often ask us detailed questions about safety protocols, and we welcome every single one.

Illinois licensing provides real peace of mind through state oversight and regular inspections. Licensed preschools must meet strict standards. Staff complete background checks through the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services. Classroom ratios stay within state guidelines—typically one preschool teacher for every 10 preschoolers for our 3-5 year olds.

Here’s what we think matters most: health protocols that actually work in practice. We follow illness policies that protect everyone while being reasonable about childhood sniffles. Handwashing becomes a fun routine, not a chore. Sanitation happens on schedule, but we don’t create a sterile bubble that prevents normal childhood exploration.

Oak Brook facilities also meet DuPage County building codes for child care spaces. Updated fire safety systems, secure entrances and age-appropriate equipment are required. We’ve invested in our building to exceed these standards because your child’s safety isn’t negotiable.

At Christ Church Preschool, we maintain full DCFS licensing. Our staff holds early childhood credentials and completes ongoing training. In our experience, the best teachers never stop learning. You can verify any preschool’s license status through the DCFS online registry—and you should.

Choosing the Right Preschool Program Matches Your Child’s Learning Style

We’ve met with hundreds of families in the York Woods area who feel overwhelmed comparing preschool options. One mom told us she toured several programs and felt more confused after each visit. We understand. The educational philosophy descriptions can sound impressive but vague.

Here’s our honest take on different approaches. Play-based programs use hands-on activities and exploration to teach concepts. Children learn through blocks, dramatic play, art projects and outdoor time. This approach builds creativity and problem-solving skills naturally. We favor this method because toddlers and young children learn best by doing, not sitting.

Academic-prep preschools introduce letter recognition, counting, and early writing through structured lessons. Some families prefer this direct instruction model. We respect that choice, though we’ve seen 3-year-olds who burn out on worksheets before they ever reach kindergarten.

Montessori programs emphasize independence and self-directed learning. Children choose activities from prepared materials. Teachers guide rather than lead. This method works beautifully for self-motivated learners. It frustrates children who need more structure and direction.

Oak Brook’s diverse preschool options reflect the community’s range of educational priorities. We use a play-based approach combined with early academic skills. Your child explores freely while also learning foundational concepts. This balance prepares children for kindergarten without the pressure that creates anxiety.

Here’s our advice: consider your child’s personality, not just what sounds impressive. Active children thrive with outdoor play time. Quiet children may prefer calm, small-group settings. One family chose us because their energetic son could run outside daily. Another picked a different program with more art time for their creative daughter. Both decisions were right.

Visit multiple programs to see where your child feels comfortable. Watch how teachers interact with students. Do they get down on the floor? Do they listen when children talk? Trust your intuition on the environment, not just the curriculum description.

Preparing Your Child for Their First Preschool Day in Oak Brook

It’s completely normal for both parents and children to feel a little anxious during the initial drop-off period. We have consoled many parents after drop-off! Please be reassured that once a child is in the classroom and engaged with their friends and teachers, they typically settle quickly—often within just a few minutes. This transition is a shared journey, and we appreciate your patience as everyone adjusts to the preschool routine.

Most children experience some separation anxiety. It’s completely normal and actually shows healthy attachment. Practice and preparation make the first day easier, but expect some bumps. We’ve never had a single child who didn’t eventually adjust and thrive.

Visit the preschool together before school starts. Let your child explore the classroom and meet teachers. One little boy came three times before school started because seeing the toys made him excited rather than nervous. Familiarity reduces fear. Many Oak Brook preschools offer summer trial sessions to ease fall start anxiety.

Create consistent morning routines at home. Practice getting dressed, eating breakfast, and saying goodbye. Keep mornings calm and predictable. We’ve learned that rushing creates meltdowns. Wake up 15 minutes earlier if you need to.

Read books about starting preschool together. Talk about what will happen during the day. Use positive language—”You’ll paint and play with new friends” instead of “Mommy has to leave.” Children pick up on your anxiety, so work on your own feelings too.

Pack comfort items if allowed. A family photo or small toy helps your child feel connected. Label everything with your child’s name—seriously, everything. We have a lost-and-found bin that fills weekly with unmarked items. Keep goodbyes brief and confident. Long, emotional farewells increase anxiety for both of you.

Most children adjust within two weeks. Some tears at drop-off are normal. Teachers at Christ Church Preschool communicate daily about how your child is settling in. We’ll tell you honestly how long they cried and what helped them feel better. We partner with you through this transition because we’ve lived it ourselves—many of our teachers are parents too.

Daily Schedules Balance Play-Based Learning with Early Academic Skills

Parents often ask what actually happens during preschool hours. We get this question on every tour. People want to know their child isn’t just playing randomly for three hours.

Our typical day starts with free choice time. Children select activities like puzzles, books or building blocks. This builds decision-making skills and independence. Teachers observe and guide learning during play. We’re watching how your child problem-solves, shares and focuses. It looks like play, but we’re gathering information about development.

Circle time brings the class together. We sing songs, read stories, and discuss the day’s theme. Children practice listening skills and taking turns—harder skills than you might think for 3-year-olds. Calendar activities introduce counting and patterns. One teacher here makes up silly songs for everything, which is a fun way for children to remember concepts. 

Free-choice time provides time for the children to explore the learning centers independently with their classmates.. Small group activities provide an opportunity for individual,focused attention as they use math manipulatives to learn counting and sorting, make predictions during a science experiment, create a special art project or build letter recognition and begin writing. We keep groups small because children learn more with individual attention and support.

Outdoor play happens daily, weather permitting. Children develop gross motor skills through running, climbing, and ball games. We go outside whenever we can because fresh air improves behavior, attention and keeps everyone healthy. Oakbrook Center’s proximity means some programs incorporate community walks for real-world learning experiences. We explore our neighborhood and discuss what we see—traffic lights, construction, seasonal changes.

Snack time teaches social skills and healthy habits. Children serve themselves and clean up. We practice table manners and conversation. Rest or quiet time follows for younger children. Some need sleep, others just need calm. We respect both.

Music and movement sessions build rhythm and coordination. Children dance, play instruments and express themselves creatively. These activities also help active learners focus better during seated work. We’ve noticed the child who struggles sitting for stories often leads the dancing.

Each activity serves a purpose. We’re not just keeping children busy. Every experience develops skills your child needs for kindergarten and beyond. The block center teaches

 spatial reasoning and collaboration. The dramatic play corner builds language and social understanding. Even cleanup time teaches responsibility and sequencing.

Parent Communication Keeps Families Connected to Classroom Progress

Working parents tell us they worry about missing important moments or falling behind on their child’s development. Strong communication creates a partnership in your child’s development and eases that guilt.

Daily reports share what your child did, ate and any notable moments. You stay informed even when work schedules prevent lengthy conversations at pickup. Digital tools help busy Oak Brook commuters stay involved despite their schedules. One dad told us he reads the daily report during his train ride home so he can ask specific questions at dinner.

Parent-teacher conferences happen twice yearly. We discuss your child’s progress in all developmental areas—social, emotional, physical, and cognitive. You learn specific strengths and areas for growth. These meetings build collaborative relationships. We share what we see at school; you share what happens at home. The full picture helps us support your child better.

Informal check-ins happen at drop-off and pickup. Quick conversations keep communication flowing. Teachers share observations and answer questions. You tell us about changes at home that might affect behavior. When parents divorced last year, we knew why their daughter suddenly clung at drop-off. Context helps us respond with compassion.

Classroom newsletters explain monthly themes and upcoming events. You see what concepts we’re teaching. Suggestions for home activities extend learning beyond preschool. Many parents appreciate ideas for reinforcing skills. We know you’re not early childhood educators, so we make suggestions practical and quick.

At Christ Church Preschool, we welcome parent involvement. You’re invited to volunteer for special events, share your talents or simply observe. One parent who’s a dentist came to talk about healthy teeth. A firefighter dad brought his gear. Seeing your child in the classroom helps you understand their experience and shows them you value their education.

Open communication builds trust. You feel confident leaving your child in our care. We address concerns quickly and celebrate achievements together. This partnership benefits your child most. When home and school work as a team, children feel secure and thrive.

Smooth Transitions from Preschool to Kindergarten Build Confidence

Every spring, parents ask us nervously if their child is really ready for kindergarten. We understand the pressure. Families preparing 4- and 5-year-olds for kindergarten entry want assurance their child won’t struggle or fall behind.

Here’s what we’ve learned: social skills matter as much as academics, sometimes more. Your child needs to follow multi-step directions, wait for turns, and work in groups. These abilities help children succeed in larger kindergarten classes. A child who knows all their letters but can’t share or handle frustration may struggle more than a child with the opposite skills.

Conflict resolution and self-regulation develop through daily practice. We teach children to use words instead of hands when upset. We help them recognize their feelings and choose appropriate responses. These aren’t extras—they’re fundamental to school success.

Academic readiness includes letter and number recognition. Children learn to write their names and count to 20. We introduce basic addition and subtraction concepts through manipulatives. Early literacy activities build phonemic awareness—hearing sounds in words. But we do this through games and activities, not drilling.

Independence skills prepare children for kindergarten routines. Your child practices opening lunch containers, managing bathroom needs, and organizing belongings. These self-help skills reduce stress in new school settings. One kindergarten teacher told us she can always identify children who attended quality preschool by their independence, not their academics.

Coordination with Oak Brook elementary schools ensures alignment with District 53 readiness expectations. We know what kindergarten teachers look for because we talk with them regularly. Our curriculum addresses those skills systematically throughout the pre-K year. We’re preparing your child for real classrooms, not an abstract ideal.

Kindergarten practice visits happen in spring. Children tour elementary schools and meet kindergarten teachers. This familiarity reduces first-day anxiety. Some programs coordinate with local schools for shared activities. Children often return from these visits excited rather than worried.

At Christ Church Preschool, we track developmental milestones carefully. You receive regular updates on kindergarten readiness. We address any skill gaps early with targeted, individualized  activities. Most children transition confidently when they’ve had quality preschool preparation. We’ve watched our graduates for decades, and they consistently start kindergarten ready to learn and grow.

Frequently Asked Questions

What age does my child start preschool in Oak Brook? Most programs accept children who turn 3 by September 1. Some preschools offer young-3s classes for children who miss the cutoff but are developmentally ready. We evaluate each child individually because birthdays don’t tell the whole story about readiness.

How do I know if a preschool in Oak Brook is licensed?
Check the Illinois DCFS online registry using the facility’s name or address. You can also ask the director directly for their license number and inspection reports. Any legitimate program will share this information proudly and immediately.

What documents do I need to enroll in an Oak Brook preschool?
Standard requirements include a birth certificate, current immunization records, a physical exam from your pediatrician, and emergency contact information. Some programs request additional forms. Start gathering paperwork early because scheduling doctor appointments takes time.

Do Oak Brook preschools offer part-time schedules?
Yes, many preschools offer flexible options, including 2-day, 3-day, or 5-half-day schedules. Full-day programs are also available for working families who need extended care. We find 3-day programs hit the sweet spot for most families, balancing socialization with family time.

When should I tour preschools in Oak Brook for fall enrollment?
Start touring in January or February for fall enrollment. Popular programs fill by March or April, so early visits help secure your preferred spot and schedule. We’ve had families miss their first choice by waiting until spring break.

What should my child know before starting preschool in Oak Brook?
No academic skills are required before preschool. Focus on bathroom independence and following simple directions. Teachers help children develop all other skills during the program. The child who arrives knowing letters isn’t ahead—they’ll all learn together.

Visit Christ Church Preschool in Oakbrook

Christ Church Preschool serves families throughout Oak Brook and surrounding communities, including Hinsdale, Westmont and Downers Grove. We’re located at 501 Oak Brook Rd, Oak Brook, IL 60523, inside the Christ Church building on our Oak Brook Campus.

Call us at 630.321.3931 to schedule a tour. We love showing families our newly renovated space and introducing you to our experienced teachers. Visit our website at https://ccpreschool.us/ to learn more about our programs, tuition and enrollment process.

We look forward to welcoming your family and supporting your child’s early education journey. After 40 years of serving Oakbrook families, we understand both the joy and anxiety of this decision. Let us help make it easier.