Best Part Time Preschools in Chicago, IL

Preschool

For any child, preschool education is an essential step on the path to kindergarten. We want the best for your child and that’s why this program focuses on their personal development with customized curriculum and lesson plans to meet their individual developmental needs. In this classroom, children are given an increasing sense of independence, while also learning how to relate to others through large-group activities which are an essential part of the day. We’re also here when you need us. Ask your school about flexible enrollment options to fit your family’s schedule.

Early Preschool

It’s never too early to start preparing your child to be ready for school, and that’s why our parents—and their children—love our Early Preschool classroom. As a stepping stone to Preschool, our Early Preschool program has a unique, indicator-based curriculum, Learn as We Grow™, designed to address the individual learning needs of 30- to 42-month-old children. We focus on understanding routines and developing independence. We’re also here when you need us. Ask your school about flexible enrollment options to fit your family’s schedule.

Preschool

For any child, preschool education is an essential step on the path to kindergarten. We want the best for your child and that’s why this program focuses on their personal development with customized curriculum and lesson plans to meet their individual developmental needs. In this classroom, children are given an increasing sense of independence, while also learning how to relate to others through large-group activities which are an essential part of the day. We’re also here when you need us. Ask your school about flexible enrollment options to fit your family’s schedule.

Early Preschool

It’s never too early to start preparing your child to be ready for school, and that’s why our parents—and their children—love our Early Preschool classroom. As a stepping stone to Preschool, our Early Preschool program has a unique, indicator-based curriculum, Learn as We Grow™, designed to address the individual learning needs of 30- to 42-month-old children. We focus on understanding routines and developing independence. We’re also here when you need us. Ask your school about flexible enrollment options to fit your family’s schedule.

Preschool Classroom

In our Preschool classroom, children start their journeys into a cooperative learning environment where they can discover interests and learn in a more structured setting. At The Goddard School®, we recognize that classrooms are made up of many unique children and teachers work to create engaging, innovative, play-based lessons with the interests and needs of every child in mind. Through the power of asking a question, your child will learn how to seek answers and advocate for themselves in the classroom. The Wonder of Learning™ curriculum takes your child's natural curiosity and encourages them to ask even more questions because asking questions fuels learning. When children want to know something, they learn faster and learning becomes an understanding that lasts a lifetime.

Bridge Classroom

Children in the Bridge classroom are strengthening their self-care skills, growing in their independence and enhancing the skills they need to be successful in a preschool classroom. The Bridge classroom is a purposeful year of preschool prep designed for children with birthdays later in the year or children who may need more time to strengthen self-care skills or social-emotional development. In this classroom, our Wonder of Learning™ education program supports children's independence as they continue to build skills necessary for handwriting and drawing with increased intentionality, learn foundational math concepts and build strong vocabularies.

Bridge Classroom

Children in the Bridge classroom are strengthening their self-care skills, growing in their independence and enhancing the skills they need to be successful in a preschool classroom. The Bridge classroom is a purposeful year of preschool prep designed for children with birthdays later in the year or children who may need more time to strengthen self-care skills or social-emotional development. In this classroom, our Wonder of Learning™ education program supports children's independence as they continue to build skills necessary for handwriting and drawing with increased intentionality, learn foundational math concepts and build strong vocabularies.

Preschool Classroom

In our Preschool classroom, children start their journeys into a cooperative learning environment where they can discover interests and learn in a more structured setting. At The Goddard School®, we recognize that classrooms are made up of many unique children and teachers work to create engaging, innovative, play-based lessons with the interests and needs of every child in mind. Through the power of asking a question, your child will learn how to seek answers and advocate for themselves in the classroom. The Wonder of Learning™ curriculum takes your child's natural curiosity and encourages them to ask even more questions because asking questions fuels learning. When children want to know something, they learn faster and learning becomes an understanding that lasts a lifetime.

Montessori Preschool

Your child is free to choose activities guided by their curiosity, to develop their strengths and talents. Montessori materials also have built-in challenges, so your child develops critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills.

Preschool

The Gardner School’s preschool program fosters curiosity, independence, and cognitive growth through hands-on learning and cooperative play. Using the World of Wonders (WOW) curriculum, teachers introduce language, literacy, math, and science while supporting social-emotional development. Learning centers encourage exploration in reading, construction, dramatic play, fine motor skills, and sensory activities, while routines, classroom roles, and enrichment build confidence. Learning Without Tears strengthens early writing and readiness through multi-sensory techniques. Children participate in enrichment classes like dance, music, language, and sports, and take on leadership roles that promote responsibility. Preschoolers wear uniforms and enjoy meals in the Kids’ Cafe, supporting independence. Families stay connected through real-time updates, photos, and progress reports. Through engaging academics and individualized support, we prepare children for kindergarten and a lifelong love of learning.

Preschool

The Gardner School’s preschool program fosters curiosity, independence, and cognitive growth through hands-on learning and cooperative play. Using the World of Wonders (WOW) curriculum, teachers introduce language, literacy, math, and science while supporting social-emotional development. Learning centers encourage exploration in reading, construction, dramatic play, fine motor skills, and sensory activities, while routines, classroom roles, and enrichment build confidence. Learning Without Tears strengthens early writing and readiness through multi-sensory techniques. Children participate in enrichment classes like dance, music, language, and sports, and take on leadership roles that promote responsibility. Preschoolers wear uniforms and enjoy meals in the Kids’ Cafe, supporting independence. Families stay connected through real-time updates, photos, and progress reports. Through engaging academics and individualized support, we prepare children for kindergarten and a lifelong love of learning.

Preppers

The Prepper program was designed to meet the special needs of maturing children to build a perfect bridge to the classroom that will come next.

Preschoolers

Preschool education introduces Preschoolers to more advanced subjects—math, science, reading, technology, art, and shared and independent play

Part Time Preschool Program

Preschoolers

Our preschool program is for students 24-48 months old. We encourage children’s increasing independence and exploration through thematic play-based curriculum activities, social emotional learning, STEAM, and weekly Spanish, yoga, and music classes. Students play daily in our indoor play area, and beautiful private playground. Organic meals and snacks are provided, as are diapers and wipes.

Jr. Kindergarten

Our Jr.K/Kindergarten is for students 4- 6 years old and focuses on elementary preparedness and love for learning in an incredibly rich learning environment. Teachers utilize several curriculum models for thematic hands-on activities. Students have daily playtime in our indoor play space and on our beautiful playground. Organic meals provided, as well as weekly music, yoga, and Spanish classes.

St. James Preschool

Our Early Childhood classes focus on inquiry-based learning and exploration through play. Guided by their innate curiosity, we teach students to be careful observers who ask thoughtful questions. We offer a wide variety of preschool options, including 2 or 3 days a week, and/or half days.

Part Time Preschool Program

Children's House Preschool

Our Children’s House preschool and pre-K program lays a strong foundation for academic and social success by honoring each child’s natural drive to learn. In this mixed-age Montessori environment, children explore subjects like math, language, science, and geography through hands-on materials and individualized lessons. The daily routine also includes real-world activities—such as preparing snacks or watering plants - that build independence, confidence, and a sense of purpose. As they grow at their own pace, children develop critical thinking, leadership, empathy, and the skills they need to thrive in kindergarten and beyond. Full-Time tuition listed. Part-time and flexible scheduling options are also available. Contact this location for more details.

Early Childhood

St. Paul offers early childcare programs for children aged 3 to 5 years, creating a nurturing environment that supports their developmental needs and prepares them for future education.

North Park Church Cooperative Preschool

North Park Church Cooperative Preschool nurtures the whole child—physically, cognitively, socially, and emotionally. Our play-based curriculum follows key early childhood principles: children learn by doing, exploring their environment through playful interaction and discovery.

Part Time Preschool Program

Part Time Preschool Program

Preschool

Our structured preschool program is designed for 2, 3 and 4-year-olds with a curriculum that focuses on supporting the growth of the whole child.

Pre-K

The Pre-K Program helps children become independent, self-confident & enthusiastic learners. Participation in the program encourages children to develop good habits and daily routines. *Must be 4 before September 1st to qualify for enrollment*

Preschool

Our structured preschool program is designed for 2, 3 and 4-year-olds with a curriculum that focuses on supporting the growth of the whole child.

Pre-K

The Pre-K Program helps children become independent, self-confident & enthusiastic learners. Participation in the program encourages children to develop good habits and daily routines. *Must be 4 before September 1st to qualify for enrollment*

Preschool

Our structured daycare program is designed for 2, 3 and 4-year-olds with a curriculum that focuses on supporting the growth of the whole child. Our experienced teachers create engaging activities that promote language development, early math and science skills, and social interaction, preparing your child for a seamless transition to kindergarten. With small class sizes, individualized attention, and a safe, welcoming space, we ensure every child feels valued and supported. Give your child the gift of a strong educational foundation by enrolling in our preschool today!

Pre-K

The Pre-K Program helps children become independent, self-confident & enthusiastic learners. Participation in the program encourages children to develop good habits and daily routines. *Must be 4 before September 1st to qualify for enrollment*

Preschool

Our structured daycare program is designed for 2, 3 and 4-year-olds with a curriculum that focuses on supporting the growth of the whole child. Our experienced teachers create engaging activities that promote language development, early math and science skills, and social interaction, preparing your child for a seamless transition to kindergarten. With small class sizes, individualized attention, and a safe, welcoming space, we ensure every child feels valued and supported. Give your child the gift of a strong educational foundation by enrolling in our preschool today!

Pre-K

The Pre-K Program helps children become independent, self-confident & enthusiastic learners. Participation in the program encourages children to develop good habits and daily routines. *Must be 4 before September 1st to qualify for enrollment*

Preschool

The BeeCurious Curriculum blends guided discovery with child-led exploration, adapting to children’s interests and knowledge. Classrooms feature diverse learning centers, including dramatic play, STEM, art, literacy, and music. Children enjoy family-style meals, daily group time, and outdoor play twice a day. Hands-on experiences—like observing life cycles—bring learning to life. The BP Read with Me program supports early literacy in small groups, while American Sign Language enhances communication. The curriculum aligns with early learning standards, with parent-teacher conferences held three times yearly.

Pre-K

BeeCurious prepares children for kindergarten through two-week study topics driven by their interests and questions. Literacy is a central focus, supported by dedicated centers, letter and sound games, and sensory writing—without worksheets, emphasizing hands-on, play-based learning. Learning centers transform with each theme, encouraging creativity and child-led play. The BP Read with Me program offers additional literacy support, and American Sign Language reinforces communication. Teachers guide development through observation and tailored challenges, with parent-teacher conferences held three times yearly to support kindergarten readiness.

Preschool

Children start their journeys into a more structured classroom setting designed to set them up for kindergarten success. Our classrooms are filled with a variety of engaging musical experiences to support your little ones development. Take a moment to listen (and dance) to one of our playlists. Children engage with colors, textures, and a variety of materials each day, to creatively express themselves and the world they see! Our rooms are lined with shelves of toys that encourage children to investigate, discover, reason, and organize their knowledge… all while playing with friends!

Pre-K

Our pre-k program will provide your child with immersive experiences that are adapted to the developmental needs of this age group. Our classrooms are filled with a variety of engaging musical experiences to support your little ones development. Take a moment to listen (and dance) to one of our playlists. Children engage with colors, textures, and a variety of materials each day, to creatively express themselves and the world they see! Our rooms are lined with shelves of toys that encourage children to investigate, discover, reason, and organize their knowledge… all while playing with friends!

Preschool

The BeeCurious Curriculum blends guided discovery with child-led exploration, adapting to children’s interests and knowledge. Classrooms feature diverse learning centers, including dramatic play, STEM, art, literacy, and music. Children enjoy family-style meals, daily group time, and outdoor play twice a day. Hands-on experiences—like observing life cycles—bring learning to life. The BP Read with Me program supports early literacy in small groups, while American Sign Language enhances communication. The curriculum aligns with early learning standards, with parent-teacher conferences held three times yearly.

Pre-K

BeeCurious prepares children for kindergarten through two-week study topics driven by their interests and questions. Literacy is a central focus, supported by dedicated centers, letter and sound games, and sensory writing—without worksheets, emphasizing hands-on, play-based learning. Learning centers transform with each theme, encouraging creativity and child-led play. The BP Read with Me program offers additional literacy support, and American Sign Language reinforces communication. Teachers guide development through observation and tailored challenges, with parent-teacher conferences held three times yearly to support kindergarten readiness.

Preschool

The BeeCurious Curriculum blends guided discovery with child-led exploration, adapting to children’s interests and knowledge. Classrooms feature diverse learning centers, including dramatic play, STEM, art, literacy, and music. Children enjoy family-style meals, daily group time, and outdoor play twice a day. Hands-on experiences—like observing life cycles—bring learning to life. The BP Read with Me program supports early literacy in small groups, while American Sign Language enhances communication. The curriculum aligns with early learning standards, with parent-teacher conferences held three times yearly.

Pre-K

BeeCurious prepares children for kindergarten through two-week study topics driven by their interests and questions. Literacy is a central focus, supported by dedicated centers, letter and sound games, and sensory writing—without worksheets, emphasizing hands-on, play-based learning. Learning centers transform with each theme, encouraging creativity and child-led play. The BP Read with Me program offers additional literacy support, and American Sign Language reinforces communication. Teachers guide development through observation and tailored challenges, with parent-teacher conferences held three times yearly to support kindergarten readiness.

Part Time Preschool Program

Part Time Preschool Program

Part Time Preschool Program

Part Time Preschool Program

Part Time Preschool Program

Children's House Preschool

Our Children’s House preschool and pre-K program lays a strong foundation for academic and social success by honoring each child’s natural drive to learn. In this mixed-age Montessori environment, children explore subjects like math, language, science, and geography through hands-on materials and individualized lessons. The daily routine also includes real-world activities—such as preparing snacks or watering plants - that build independence, confidence, and a sense of purpose. As they grow at their own pace, children develop critical thinking, leadership, empathy, and the skills they need to thrive in kindergarten and beyond. Full-Time tuition listed. Part-time and flexible scheduling options are also available. Contact this location for more details.

Preschool

The Gardner School’s preschool program fosters curiosity, independence, and cognitive growth through hands-on learning and cooperative play. Using the World of Wonders (WOW) curriculum, teachers introduce language, literacy, math, and science while supporting social-emotional development. Learning centers encourage exploration in reading, construction, dramatic play, fine motor skills, and sensory activities, while routines, classroom roles, and enrichment build confidence. Learning Without Tears strengthens early writing and readiness through multi-sensory techniques. Children participate in enrichment classes like dance, music, language, and sports, and take on leadership roles that promote responsibility. Preschoolers wear uniforms and enjoy meals in the Kids’ Cafe, supporting independence. Families stay connected through real-time updates, photos, and progress reports. Through engaging academics and individualized support, we prepare children for kindergarten and a lifelong love of learning.

Preschool

The Gardner School’s preschool program fosters curiosity, independence, and cognitive growth through hands-on learning and cooperative play. Using the World of Wonders (WOW) curriculum, teachers introduce language, literacy, math, and science while supporting social-emotional development. Learning centers encourage exploration in reading, construction, dramatic play, fine motor skills, and sensory activities, while routines, classroom roles, and enrichment build confidence. Learning Without Tears strengthens early writing and readiness through multi-sensory techniques. Children participate in enrichment classes like dance, music, language, and sports, and take on leadership roles that promote responsibility. Preschoolers wear uniforms and enjoy meals in the Kids’ Cafe, supporting independence. Families stay connected through real-time updates, photos, and progress reports. Through engaging academics and individualized support, we prepare children for kindergarten and a lifelong love of learning.

Preschool

The Gardner School’s preschool program fosters curiosity, independence, and cognitive growth through hands-on learning and cooperative play. Using the World of Wonders (WOW) curriculum, teachers introduce language, literacy, math, and science while supporting social-emotional development. Learning centers encourage exploration in reading, construction, dramatic play, fine motor skills, and sensory activities, while routines, classroom roles, and enrichment build confidence. Learning Without Tears strengthens early writing and readiness through multi-sensory techniques. Children participate in enrichment classes like dance, music, language, and sports, and take on leadership roles that promote responsibility. Preschoolers wear uniforms and enjoy meals in the Kids’ Cafe, supporting independence. Families stay connected through real-time updates, photos, and progress reports. Through engaging academics and individualized support, we prepare children for kindergarten and a lifelong love of learning.

Preschool

The Gardner School’s preschool program fosters curiosity, independence, and cognitive growth through hands-on learning and cooperative play. Using the World of Wonders (WOW) curriculum, teachers introduce language, literacy, math, and science while supporting social-emotional development. Learning centers encourage exploration in reading, construction, dramatic play, fine motor skills, and sensory activities, while routines, classroom roles, and enrichment build confidence. Learning Without Tears strengthens early writing and readiness through multi-sensory techniques. Children participate in enrichment classes like dance, music, language, and sports, and take on leadership roles that promote responsibility. Preschoolers wear uniforms and enjoy meals in the Kids’ Cafe, supporting independence. Families stay connected through real-time updates, photos, and progress reports. Through engaging academics and individualized support, we prepare children for kindergarten and a lifelong love of learning.

Children's House Preschool

Our Children’s House preschool and pre-K program lays a strong foundation for academic and social success by honoring each child’s natural drive to learn. In this mixed-age Montessori environment, children explore subjects like math, language, science, and geography through hands-on materials and individualized lessons. The daily routine also includes real-world activities—such as preparing snacks or watering plants - that build independence, confidence, and a sense of purpose. As they grow at their own pace, children develop critical thinking, leadership, empathy, and the skills they need to thrive in kindergarten and beyond. Full-Time tuition listed. Part-time and flexible scheduling options are also available. Contact this location for more details.

Children's House Preschool

Our Children’s House preschool and pre-K program lays a strong foundation for academic and social success by honoring each child’s natural drive to learn. In this mixed-age Montessori environment, children explore subjects like math, language, science, and geography through hands-on materials and individualized lessons. The daily routine also includes real-world activities—such as preparing snacks or watering plants - that build independence, confidence, and a sense of purpose. As they grow at their own pace, children develop critical thinking, leadership, empathy, and the skills they need to thrive in kindergarten and beyond. Full-Time tuition listed. Part-time and flexible scheduling options are also available. Contact this location for more details.

Part Time Preschool Program

Part Time Preschool Program

Part Time Preschool Program

Part Time Preschool Program

Part Time Preschool Program

Part Time Preschool Program

Part Time Preschool Program

Part Time Preschool Program

Part Time Preschool Program

Bridge Classroom

Children in the Bridge classroom are strengthening their self-care skills, growing in their independence and enhancing the skills they need to be successful in a preschool classroom. The Bridge classroom is a purposeful year of preschool prep designed for children with birthdays later in the year or children who may need more time to strengthen self-care skills or social-emotional development. In this classroom, our Wonder of Learning™ education program supports children's independence as they continue to build skills necessary for handwriting and drawing with increased intentionality, learn foundational math concepts and build strong vocabularies.

Preschool Classroom

In our Preschool classroom, children start their journeys into a cooperative learning environment where they can discover interests and learn in a more structured setting. At The Goddard School®, we recognize that classrooms are made up of many unique children and teachers work to create engaging, innovative, play-based lessons with the interests and needs of every child in mind. Through the power of asking a question, your child will learn how to seek answers and advocate for themselves in the classroom. The Wonder of Learning™ curriculum takes your child's natural curiosity and encourages them to ask even more questions because asking questions fuels learning. When children want to know something, they learn faster and learning becomes an understanding that lasts a lifetime.

Preschool Classroom

In our Preschool classroom, children start their journeys into a cooperative learning environment where they can discover interests and learn in a more structured setting. At The Goddard School®, we recognize that classrooms are made up of many unique children and teachers work to create engaging, innovative, play-based lessons with the interests and needs of every child in mind. Through the power of asking a question, your child will learn how to seek answers and advocate for themselves in the classroom. The Wonder of Learning™ curriculum takes your child's natural curiosity and encourages them to ask even more questions because asking questions fuels learning. When children want to know something, they learn faster and learning becomes an understanding that lasts a lifetime.

Bridge Classroom

Children in the Bridge classroom are strengthening their self-care skills, growing in their independence and enhancing the skills they need to be successful in a preschool classroom. The Bridge classroom is a purposeful year of preschool prep designed for children with birthdays later in the year or children who may need more time to strengthen self-care skills or social-emotional development. In this classroom, our Wonder of Learning™ education program supports children's independence as they continue to build skills necessary for handwriting and drawing with increased intentionality, learn foundational math concepts and build strong vocabularies.

Toddlers

In our Toddler Room, we believe that learning is not just an activity; it's the first step in shaping a child's understanding of how a safe and secure environment aligns with our core values of classroom learning. We wholeheartedly embrace the principles of curiosity, commitment, and community, creating an enriching atmosphere where children learn and thrive. Here, we recognize that each child is a unique individual, and we tailor our approach to cater to their specific needs and interests.

Preschool

Preschool is a big year. We’ve designed our program to give you complete confidence in every aspect of your child’s experience; from health and safety; to ready-for-school curriculum; to the full support of experienced teachers.

Kindergarten Prep

The last year before kindergarten is a time of growth. We offer a program that gives you both teachers who cherish this important time, and curriculum recognized by parents and teachers for helping children build the social and academic skills needed to be ready for school.