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Showing results for tags 'preschooler'.
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Choosing the right Kindergarten for your child can be daunting, especially in Chicago, where there are so many options. Then once you are secure with your school choice, the next step is preparing a smooth transition for your child and your family. Learn how these schools support students and families through this process, and what you can do at home to get the school year started on the right foot. This session includes panelists with expertise in neurodiversity and challenging behaviors. -
untilCome and enjoy time with your family and others at this NPN playdate at Chicago Waldorf School. ☕ Enjoy a delicious snack in the Community Room 🐝 Experience a Waldorf classroom with one of our teachers. Explore the materials and enjoy the toys and activities 🪴Enjoy some time together in the beautiful outdoor nature park and garden, weather permitting Chicago Waldorf School is located at 5200 N Ashland Ave. Questions? Email amy@npnparents.org. NPN is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. You help us keep these playdates free with your paid membership or donation. Thank you for supporting NPN!
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untilJoin us for Sunday play at Catherine Cook School! There will be fun activities on the rooftop playground and two drop-in read-along sessions from 9:15 am - 9:30 am and 10:00 am to 10:15 am in their cozy library. Parents, grab a cup of coffee, share some yummy snacks with your children, relax, and enjoy as your kids experience some fun and unique Catherine Cook School activities! This event is for kids aged 2 - 5 years old and their sbilngs. Bring the whole family! Spots are limited so register today. Catherine Cook is located at 226 W Schiller St, Chicago, IL 60610 NPN is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. We need your help to keep these playdates free for families. Please support NPN's work by becoming a paid member or making a donation.
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until“Focus on Physical Knowledge” at the Sunday Family Day with Park West Co-op & NPN on Sunday, December 8, from 9:00-11:00 am. Come explore STEAM activities with your child in our award-winning classrooms and indoor gym. Let your child investigate a variety of materials, discover their properties, and observe how their actions can affect outcomes. From pulleys to pendulums, ramps to rollers and a variety of painting tools, these activities hit the sweet spot combining Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math. At Park West, we provoke thinking by offering interesting materials and encouraging kids to formulate and try out their own hypotheses. We infuse the school environment with opportunities for children to further their understanding of science, literacy, numbers and art in meaningful, developmentally appropriate ways - all in a play-based curriculum. This event is for kids aged 2 - 5 years old and their families (siblings welcome!) Allergy-friendly snacks provided. Park West Cooperative is located at 2214 N Bissell St, Chicago, IL 60614. They are accessible just two blocks South of the Fullerton L stop (Red, Brown, Purple lines) and easily accessible from both the Fullerton and Armitage bus. Metered parking is available on Webster. Street parking is available but please allow some extra time as they are located in the beautiful and busy Lincoln Park Neighborhood.
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untilCome together with other parents, educators, and advocates from across Chicago to share and learn about how to better support young children ages birth - 5 with disabilities at the Every Child Ready Chicago Strengthening Inclusion Symposium on Saturday, December 7th at Malcolm X College. This event will feature: ✏️ Remarks from Chicago Mayor’s Office and Chicago Public Schools leadership 🤝 Resources and presentations on services and resources available for children with disabilities ages birth - 5 in Chicago 🎒Presentations for staff, advocates, and systems leaders on the benefits of inclusive special education models 🥪 Lunch 🎈Activities for families and children - Join NPN for an activity at our table! Learn more about the initiative on their website. There will be lunch served and activities for kids! All are welcome to attend! Learn more and register to attend at https://cvent.me/Y9OV2D -
untilChoosing the right Kindergarten for your child can be daunting, especially in Chicago, where there are so many options. Then once you are secure with your school choice, the next step is preparing a smooth transition for your child and your family. Learn how these schools support students and families through this process, and what you can do at home to get the school year started on the right foot. This session includes panelists with expertise in neurodiversity and challenging behaviors. Featuring: Bennett Day School Bubbles Academy City Elementary St. Josaphat School Scuola Italiana Enrico Fermi Tuesday's Child This discussion will occur live over Zoom. Please register on this page to receive the Zoom link. This discussion is open to everyone. Help us keep these discussions free for families across the city by supporting NPN. Become a member today. Questions? Contact Amy at amy@npnparents.org Thank you to our Presenting Sponsor, Bennett Day School. School representatives and education experts: Would you like to speak on a panel like this? Email Amy at amy@npnparents.org to inquire.
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untilPreschool represents a big milestone in a child's life, and often in a parents' life too. We all want our children to have the best start that they can, and we have a panel of local preschool experts here to help you prepare. Our panelists will discuss things you can do to help your family's transition smooth and enjoyable. They will address separation anxiety, what to expect on the first day, how to talk with your child about preschool, and what is most meaningful during these special years. You will walk away with tips on activities you can do at home to prepare your child for preschool, saying good-bye on the first day and beyond, and what to expect on the first day. Featuring: Saint Clement School Bubbles Academy Mary Meyer School Sinai Preschool This discussion will occur live over Zoom. Please register on this page to receive the Zoom link. This discussion is open to everyone. Help us keep these discussions free for families across the city by supporting NPN. Become a member today. Questions? Contact Amy at amy@npnparents.org Thank you to our Supporting Sponsor, Saint Clement School. School representatives and education experts: Would you like to speak on a panel like this? Email Amy at amy@npnparents.org to inquire.
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untilAre you thinking about preschool for your child but don't know where to start? Join us for a lively, insightful discussion about various preschool philosophies available in Chicago. This discussion will feature expert panelists from highly regarded preschools that families love. You will hear from preschools specializing in or drawing inspiration from educational philosophies such as arts integration, Montessori, Cooperative, Waldorf, Reggio Emilia, language immersion, and religion. Featuring: Bubbles Academy Near North Montessori Park West Cooperative Nursery School Chicago Waldorf School Bennett Day School Sinai Preschool Lycée Français de Chicago This discussion will occur live over Zoom. It is open to everyone. Help us keep these discussions free for families across the city by donating to NPN today. Register to receive the Zoom link via email. Questions? Contact Amy at amy@npnparents.org
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untilJoin us for a purposeful playtime at the charming Mary Meyer School! Described as a “big, warm hug!”, Mary Meyer School has been inspiring preschool aged children to encounter the world with joy, curiosity and confidence since 1943 in their warm and beautiful row house turned preschool. As we explore the world of purposeful play we will make homemade play dough to take home, draw a self-portrait, and sway to the music of Mary Meyer School’s long-time musician-in-residence, Susan Salidor. Don’t miss this chance to snuggle up with a book in their pillow-filled bathtub by the sunny window and discover the joys of purposeful play at Mary Meyer School. Event opens at 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM. Music with Susan will begin at 10:00 AM. *This event is best for ages 2 to 4 but the whole family is always welcome. Spots are limited so register today! Mary Meyer School is located at 2817 North Pine Grove Avenue Chicago, IL 60657. NPN Playdates are free for NPN members and NPN members can bring a friend for free! We ask non-members to contribute $10/adult, which comes with a one-year NPN membership, giving you free access to every playdate! If you are experiencing financial hardship, please feel free to contact us at director@npnparents.org to ask about our fee-waived memberships.
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untilDo you think your child might thrive in a collaborative environment where learning is built around student interests? Want to better understand how project-based learning (PBL) boosts student engagement and improves learning outcomes? We invite your whole family to stop by our Open House on Saturday, November 16 any time between 10:00 am - 12:00 pm to: - Chat 1:1 with Bennett Day School teachers, students, and parents/guardians - Explore our newly expanded West Loop campus - Sit in on Information Sessions with Leadership…and more! This is a free event, but RSVP is required, please go here to register. If you are planning to drive, there is limited parking available in the gravel lot on the NW corner at Morgan and Hubbard (across the street from Bennett's campus). There is also free parking available on the west side of Morgan and south side of Hubbard, or metered parking on Grand Ave. Accessible parking spaces are available by request - please reply to this email to learn more. We are two blocks west of the Grand Blue Line stop and the Halsted 8 bus, and 2 blocks north of the Pink/Green Line Stop at Morgan if those options are convenient to you. This is an external partner event. Please contact the organization directly with any questions or concerns: samantha.rud@bennettday.org.
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untilTake a small-group tour of our campus in the West Loop/Fulton Market neighborhood and learn more about our PreK-12 program. Bennett Day School is where joy meets education. Our students love coming to school every day, eager to explore, learn, and grow in an inclusive and collaborative environment. What makes our PreK-12 school different? At Bennett, students learn by doing through dynamic project-based learning (PBL) experiences, and our competency-based approach to education and assessment provides each learner with individualized feedback based on their strengths and areas of challenge. This a recurring event, with an additional open house on November 7 from 9:00 - 10:30 am. This is a free event, but RSVP is required, please go here to register. If you are planning to drive, there is limited parking available in the gravel lot on the NW corner at Morgan and Hubbard (across the street from Bennett's campus). There is also free parking available on the west side of Morgan and south side of Hubbard, or metered parking on Grand Ave. Accessible parking spaces are available by request - please reply to this email to learn more. We are two blocks west of the Grand Blue Line stop and the Halsted 8 bus, and 2 blocks north of the Pink/Green Line Stop at Morgan if those options are convenient to you. This is an external partner event. Please contact the organization directly with any questions or concerns: samantha.rud@bennettday.org.
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untilWhat is an IEP?: An overview of the IEP process, key terms, and how the IEP team collaborates to create individualized goals and supports for your child. Your Role as a Parent: How to actively participate in IEP meetings, share valuable insights about your child’s strengths and needs, and collaborate with educators and specialists to ensure your child receives appropriate services. The IEP Meeting: What to expect during an IEP meeting, questions to ask, and how to be prepared to advocate for your child’s unique needs. Understanding Your Child’s Rights: An outline of your child’s legal rights and how to ensure the IEP is followed and adjusted as necessary. Building a Partnership: Tips for fostering a positive, productive relationship with your child’s educational team and being an empowered advocate throughout their academic journey. This presentation will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to take an active role in the IEP process and work with the school to ensure your child thrives academically and emotionally. RSVP Required. Please go here to register. This is a free, online event. This is an external partner event. Please contact the organization directly with any questions or concerns: rachael@redwoodschools.org. -
untilThis playdate has been canceled and is in the process of being rescheduled. Please check the NPN calendar soon for the new date. We are sorry for this inconvenience. Thank you for your understanding. Join LEEP Forward and NPN for Autumn Adventures! This sensory-friendly, inclusive event is designed for all children, ages 2-5, with siblings of all ages welcome to join in the fun! Embrace the magic of autumn with a variety of engaging activities that promote exploration and creativity: Children can dive into our Leaf Sensory Bin filled with dried leaves, acorns, and other textures, or enjoy the Apple Sensory Bin where they can scoop and discover hidden treasures. We’ll have a Pumpkin Painting station where little artists can decorate mini pumpkins with non-toxic, washable paint, and a playdough Station featuring autumn colors for creative molding and shaping. For imaginative play, kids can dress up our friendly scarecrow using old clothes and hay, and relax in our Autumn Story Corner with cozy blankets and captivating fall-themed stories. Plus, don’t miss our guided Nature Walk, where everyone can collect autumn treasures! We will also have a bounce house for our little adventurers seeking more movement activities. Our event will also include a ball pit and sensory tables for more hands-on exploration. Finally, we’ll provide healthy, allergy-friendly snacks to keep everyone energized, and every family will be entered into a raffle for a night of respite or babysitting! Join us for a morning of sensory exploration, connection, and autumn fun in an inclusive environment. We can’t wait to see you there! Location: 1447 W Montrose NPN Playdates are free for NPN members. We ask non-members to contribute $20, which comes with a one-year NPN membership giving you free access to every playdate! Non-members, RSVP and then contribute HERE. If you are experiencing financial hardship, contact us at director@npnparents.org to ask about our fee-waived memberships and playdates.
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In this webinar, Caroline Adelman, PhD, Clinical Director and founder of Chicago Psychotherapy, discusses anxiety in children and teens, and how parents can support their anxious child. This webinar is the video recording of the first episode of NPN's podcast, Chicago Style Parenting. -
Embracing the Fall Transition: Establishing New Routines
NPN Sitaara posted an article in Articles Directory
As summer bids farewell and fall begins to paint the world in hues of amber and gold, families often face the challenge of transitioning from the relaxed, free-spirited days of summer to a more structured fall routine. This shift can be both exciting and daunting, but with a little planning and creativity, you can make the transition smooth and enjoyable for everyone. Here’s a guide to help you establish a fall routine that fosters balance, productivity, and family togetherness. 1. Reflect on What Worked in Summer Before diving into the new routine, take a moment to reflect on what worked well during the summer. Did your kids enjoy the flexibility of later bedtimes? Did family dinners become more frequent? Use these insights to inform your fall routine. For example, if you found that evening walks became a cherished family tradition, consider incorporating them into your autumn schedule. 2. Establish a Consistent Sleep Schedule As days get shorter, it’s important to reset sleep schedules for everyone in the family. Gradually shift bedtimes and wake-up times to align with the new season. Consistent sleep routines help improve mood, concentration, and overall well-being. A calming pre-bedtime ritual—like reading together or having a soothing bath—can also help ease the transition. 3. Plan a Balanced After-School Routine With school back in session, it's crucial to establish a balanced after-school routine. Designate specific times for homework, extracurricular activities, and downtime. Create a family calendar to keep track of each member’s commitments and responsibilities. This helps everyone stay organized and reduces the stress of last-minute scrambles. Related bonus! I purchased this super-sized clear calendar for my family over the summer. We mounted it outside of our kitchen and it helps us stay organized and plan ahead for the week at a (screen-free!) glance! 4. Embrace Seasonal Activities Fall offers a plethora of activities that can enrich your family’s routine while establishing new traditions! Visit a local pumpkin patch, take a scenic hike or walk and collect colorful leaves, or bake seasonal treats together (here's a cute list of fall treats!). Integrating these activities into your routine not only makes the season enjoyable but also creates lasting memories. 5. Designate Family Time As schedules get busier with school and activities, it’s important to prioritize family time. Set aside dedicated periods for family bonding, whether it’s a game night, a movie marathon, or a weekend outing. Regular, intentional family time helps strengthen relationships and provides a comforting routine amidst the busyness. 6. Stay Flexible and Adapt While routines are beneficial, flexibility is key. Unexpected events and changes are a natural part of life, so be prepared to adapt your routine as needed. Encourage open communication within the family to address any challenges or adjustments that might arise. 7. Reflect and Adjust Finally, take time to reflect on how the new routine is working. Are there areas that need tweaking? Is your family feeling balanced and happy? Regularly assess and adjust your routine to ensure it meets everyone’s needs and keeps the family dynamic positive and productive. Transitioning from summer to fall doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By thoughtfully establishing a new routine, you can create a season filled with structure, joy, and family connection. Embrace the change, celebrate the season, and enjoy the beautiful fall journey with your loved ones. -
untilJoin LEEP Forward and NPN for an inclusive Playdate with Sensory Exploration on Sunday, May 19th, from 9:00 am - 11:00 am for children ages 2-5 years old. Step into a world of sensory exploration and playful discovery with LEEP Forward! Our inclusive environment celebrates individual differences and encourages exploration, meeting each child right where they are. At our NPN Playdate, we're all about PLAY! Dive into a morning of fun filled with sensory exploration featuring various textures, obstacle courses, and messy play activities. Get ready to bounce in our bounce house, engage with sensory tables, and unleash your creativity with outdoor gardening projects (weather permitting). And don't worry about snacks - we've got you covered with healthy, allergy-friendly options for everyone. Plus, every family attending will be entered into a raffle for a night of respite/babysitting! Come join us for a morning of laughter, learning, and lots of fun! We can't wait to see you there! Location: 1447 W Montrose -
NPN Summer Fun Playdate at CST Academy, Lincoln Park
NPN Tareema posted an event in Community Calendar
untilCome join us for a delightful Summer Fun playdate on Sunday, June 2nd, from 9:00 to 11:00 AM at CST Academy in Lincoln Park. CSTA warmly welcomes you to a morning filled with sunshine-inspired hands-on activities, sensory exploration, and access to our indoor gym! We’ll be serving freshly brewed coffee, refreshments, and wholesome snacks. This event offers a fantastic opportunity for your child to have a blast while families discover our multidisciplinary services, including Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, ABA therapy, and our therapeutic preschool and kindergarten program. CST Academy is located at 1765 N Elston Ave, Chicago, IL 60642 -
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Embarking on family adventures, such as road trips, airport travels, or exploring foreign lands, often poses the challenge of picky eating. A change in routine, exposure to new environments, and the availability of unfamiliar cuisines can all contribute to a child's resistance to trying new foods. As a registered dietitian, I emphasize the importance of healthy eating, consistent meal frequency, adequate protein and energy intake, and hydration while minimizing highly processed foods. In this article, we'll explore the reasons behind children's picky eating during travel and offer practical tips to ensure proper nutrition whether on a road trip, at the airport, or overseas. Tips to Improve Eating Habits and Promote Nutrition on the Road, at the Airport, and Overseas Create a Portable Pantry for Road Trips I advocate for planning by packing a cooler with ice packs and a variety of healthy snacks. Options like cut-up/whole fruits or vegetable sticks paired with a healthy dip like dark chocolate/regular hummus, plain Greek yogurt, or nut butter packs, along with single-serving packet choices such as yogurt-covered/plain raisins, applesauce, low sodium jerky, seaweed snacks, popcorn, dried mango, dates, mini energy bars, cheese sticks/balls, drinkable kefir, cheese/nut crackers, plain/dark chocolate pretzels, pistachios or dark chocolate almonds, and sunflower seeds can provide essential nutrients during long drives. As a dietitian, I recommend avoiding excessive reliance on sugary treats, which can lead to energy spikes followed by crashes. Airport Adventures Navigating airport dining can be challenging, but with thoughtful planning, it becomes manageable. Carry a mix of healthy snacks such as the ones mentioned above. Look for airport restaurants offering balanced options like salads, wraps, or grilled chicken. Whether you're on a road trip, at the airport, or overseas, having a stash of familiar, healthy snacks can be a game-changer. Hydration is Key I stress the importance of staying hydrated during travel. Carry reusable water bottles and encourage regular sips. Limit sugary drinks and opt for water or diluted 100% fruit juices. Coconut water is also a great choice! Proper hydration is crucial for maintaining energy levels and overall well-being. Balanced Fast Food Choices While on the road, fast food may be the most convenient option. However, as a dietitian, I recommend making mindful choices by selecting items with a balance of protein, fiber, and vitamins and minerals. Many fast-food establishments now offer healthier alternatives, such as grilled chicken options or salads. Opt for Buffets or Family-Style Dining Choose restaurants that offer buffet or family-style dining options. This allows children to explore various dishes in smaller portions without feeling overwhelmed. It also gives them a sense of control over their meal choices. Embrace International Flavors Traveling abroad provides a unique opportunity to expose your child to diverse cuisines. Encourage kids to try small portions of local dishes. For food safety, focus on foods that are cooked thoroughly and filtered bottled water. Engaging in the cultural aspect of food can make the experience more enjoyable. Explore Local Markets While overseas, immerse your family in the local food culture by exploring markets. Allow your child to pick out fresh fruits, vegetables, or local snacks. This not only promotes healthy eating but also provides an exciting cultural experience. Maintain Routine with Time Zone Changes If traveling across time zones, try to maintain a consistent mealtime routine as much as possible. This helps regulate your child's hunger and ensures they receive the nutrients their growing bodies need. Set a Healthy Example Children often model their behavior after their parents. Demonstrate the importance of nutrition by making mindful food choices yourself. If they see you enjoying a variety of nutritious foods, they may be more inclined to do the same. Juggling picky eating during family travels requires creativity, preparation, and a dash of flexibility. By understanding the reasons behind picky eating while on the road, at the airport, or overseas, and implementing practical tips, you can transform mealtime into an opportunity for nutritional exploration. As a dietitian, my emphasis is on creating lasting memories of nourishing adventures for your child, ensuring they receive the nutrients their growing bodies need. -
untilJoin NPN and CPS for a Sunday Playdate at the The Dr. Fisher Early Learning Center in Lincoln Park. Parents, grab a cup of coffee, relax and enjoy as your kids experience some fun activities and get to know this CPS Early Learning Center. This event is for kids aged 2 - 5 years old. Spots are limited so register today! The Dr Fisher Early Learning Center is located at: 1840 North Clark Street Chicago, IL 60614
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untilJoin us for a Sunday Playdate from 9-11am at Bright Horizons in Lakeview as you have the opportunity to Create Art, Engage in STEM activities and Play in the space. Healthy snacks will also be provided. This is a great opportunity to connect with other parents, have fun as a family, and take part in exciting and educational activities for your preschooler. This event is for children ages 2 - 5 years old. Spots are limited so register today! BONUS! All families in attendance will be entered into a raffle to win four tickets to the new Cirque du Soleil show, Crystal, at the NOW Arena. Bright Horizons at Lakeview is located at 2840 N Lincoln Ave. Street parking is available directly in front of the school.
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untilJoin NPN on Sunday, February 11, from 9:00 -11:00 AM at the British International School of Chicago, South Loop (BISC-SL) for a fun and free, Super Bowl-themed playdate. It will be a big win for your 2-5-year-old when they suit-up for the BISC-SL team. We’ll be exploring, experimenting, imagining, creating, playing, and meeting new teammates at our very own Super Bowl Sunday playdate. Your child will enjoy a half-time allergy-conscious snack while you get a cup of coffee, chat with parents and learn more about BISC-SL. British International School of Chicago, South Loop students aged 3 through 18 experience the kind of extraordinary educational opportunity that gets children excited to come to school each day. The personalized, holistic approach to learning ensures that every child's learning needs are met. BISC-SL emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills to prepare students for success in a rapidly changing world. BISC-SL is located at 161 W. 9 th Street. You are welcome to park in the Roosevelt Collection parking garage for 2 hours of free validate parking. We look forward to seeing you on February 11th ! Visit bischcagosl.org for more information on our school.
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untilTHIS EVENT IS FULL: WE ARE NO LONGER ACCEPTING RSVP'S. PLEASE JOIN US FOR OUR NEXT PLAYDATE ON 1/28! Sign up here! NPN Playdates are back! Join us for Sunday play at Kids' Work Chicago Riverview! Their large indoor play spaces will be open, crafts will be available, plus goodie bags with snacks for the kids! Parents come and relax and enjoy as your kids experience some fun activities! This event is for kids aged 2 - 5 years old. Spots are limited so register today! Kids' Work Chicago Riverview is located at 3429 N. California Ave, near I-94 on California between Addison and Belmont. The parking lot in front of the building has plenty of spaces and there is also ample street parking in the neighborhood! All families in attendance will be entered into a raffle to win a gift certificate to Goldfish Swim School Roscoe Village.
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untilJoin us for Sunday play at City Garden Waldorf School! Play and mingle with other NPN families in this beautiful space! Families will enjoy bread-making, puppet play, and open play. Plus you can talk with City Garden teachers about their program and Waldorf early childhood education. This playdate is designed especially for children who are two through five years old and their parents, but children of all ages and expecting parents are welcome. Learn more about City Garden Waldorf School and their parent-child classes that start Saturday, January 20th here. Read more about City Garden Waldorf School in this article in Block Club Chicago and this feature on WGN. City Garden Waldorf School is located at 920 W 19th St, Chicago, IL 60608. There is ample street parking on 19th Street. Enter the school through the garden located between 920 and 912 W. 19th Street.
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untilJoin Kids' Work Chicago Riverview and observe our PreK classrooms to see the curriculum and learning environment in real-time, then chat with lead teachers at a Q&A session! This is a free event, but RSVP is required. Please go here to register. Ample parking in Kids' Work Riverview's private lot in front of our center. This is an external partner event. Please contact the organization directly with any questions or concerns: sierra@kidsworkchicago.com.
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untilJoin Kids' Work Chicago Riverview and observe our Jr.K/Kindergarten classrooms to see the curriculum and learning environment in real-time, then chat with lead teachers at a Q&A session! This is a free event, but RSVP is required. Please go here to register. Ample parking in Kids' Work Riverview's private lot in front of our center. This is an external partner event. Please contact the organization directly with any questions or concerns: sierra@kidsworkchicago.com.
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