Our NAEYC accredited preschool/child care program operates year round for children two to five years of age. The center is located at 727 Harlem Ave. in Glenview. Our center operates from 6:45 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

The Preschool staff includes a program director, teachers and assistant teachers. Teachers have either a two or four year degree in Early Childhood , Elementary Education or Early Childhood Certification. Commitment to excellence and optimum teacher child ratios provide individualized attention and low teacher turnover.

Staff plan a theme-based curriculum to effectively meet the needs, interest and abilities of the class as well as each individual child. By providing quality care, Wesley helps to strengthen and give support to families.

Children are placed according to age and developmental level. Classrooms are set up with interest centers, which include the following areas: art, dramatic play, blocks, puzzles, books, listening center, sensory, writing, science and computers. Placement of equipment and materials is structured to encourage maximum independence for each child. Each center is designed to stimulate a child's curiosity, and contains activities to help the child practice new skills through play. The centers are set up to encourage language and social development. A child is free to use the learning centers for the greater part of each day.

To enhance children's physical development, large motor muscle play is available both morning and afternoon. In addition to using our gym and large fence enclosed playground, children participate in neighborhood walks to local parks.

Language skills are primarily strengthened through play in the interest centers as children talk with other children and with teachers. However, a few short time periods are set aside each day for group times. These experiences focus on listening and comprehension skills, auditory discrimination and other pre reading skills. Although Wesley does not advocate formal teaching of reading or writing in the early years, individual attempts by a child to learn and practice these skills are encouraged. Teachers introduce children to new library books at story times, which are scheduled throughout the day. Children are also encouraged to "write" or dictate messages to others.

A nutritious breakfast, catered lunch, and afternoon snack is served. Mealtime also provides an opportunity for social interaction and language development.

Field trips are taken throughout the year. To maximize the experience for children parents are invited to accompany the group. Family activities are scheduled by the center throughout the year.