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Showing results for tags 'Preschooler'.
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Parent Chat: Pregnancy - Preschool
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We're excited to launch Parent Chats! Your monthly virtual opportunity to join in on a casual conversation centered around topics that matter to you. Unlike our monthly webinars that are more structured and have a presenter and topic - you get to lead the discussion, vent about current happenings, or just observe and chime in as you see fit; think of it as our forum in video format! Sitaara and Amy from the NPN staff team will join you. If you've been craving connection but not eager about getting out in the real world for it to happen - we hope you join us. Here are the topics and dates for each Parent Chat this June through August. Participating parents will be automatically entered to win raffle prizes at each chat! In this June chat, focusing on pregnancy - preschool, you could win: - A one hour consultation with infant sleep expert, Serene Swaddles - A one hour consultation with childbirth educator, Serene Swaddles - A birth options consultation with Jo Ann Lindberg of Birthlink June 9th: Chat about the early years: pregnancy - preschool July 14th: Talk about the elementary school years: Kindergarten - 6th grade August 18th: Celebrate the tween-teen years: 7th grade - 12th grade -
Preschool Philosophies: Reggio-Emilia, Play-Based, Arts-Integrated, STEM-focused
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Choosing a preschool for your child can be an overwhelming task, especially in Chicago where there are so many options. What does a Reggio-Emilia, Arts-Integrated, or Play-Based curriculum mean? What does a STEM-focused curriculum look like in preschool? With so many different preschool philosophies, how do you know which philosophy works for you and your family? In this discussion, you will learn about various philosophies in early childhood education programs and the benefits of each philosophy regarding character development in early childhood. In addition, our panelists will discuss some things to consider during the preschool search to help you prepare to choose a preschool for your family. There will be time for Q&A at the end! Our esteemed school panel consists of: Kevin O'Brien, Director, Mary Meyer School Meg Fitzgerald, Director of Early Childhood (PreK-SK), Bennett Day School Samantha Maxwell, Preschool Director, Bubbles Academy Arts-Integrated Preschool Dr. Camille Franklin, Ed.D, LSW, Family Engagement Coordinator Network 4, Chicago Public Schools OECE Sarah Cudnik, Owner and Executive Director, Kids' Work Chicago Riverview Thank you to our Presenting Sponsors: Mary Meyers School and Bennett Day School. And we appreciate our Supporting Sponsor: Bubbles Academy Arts-Integrated Preschool By registering for this event, you agree that NPN may share your name and email address with our presenting sponsor. Thank you to our Presenting Sponsors -
Empowering Your Family's Financial Wellness: Why Learning About Crypto is a Must for Financial Literacy Month
If you're like me, saving for my children's future is a top priority. But it's more than just saving for college: I want to help my kids have positive relationships with money. And that means talking to them early and often about money and finances so that they are equipped with the tools to make good financial choices as adults. However, in the last 10 years, the financial landscape and possibilities have changed drastically with the introduction of cryptocurrency and the Metaverse. As a parent, this leads me to ask so many questions: What does this mean for our kids and their future? How can I better educate myself so that I can safely introduce the world of web3 to my kids? And most importantly, is there a way that I can leverage crypto to incorporate it into our larger wealth-building journey to benefit both myself and my family? All of these questions led my husband and I to start a company called The CryptoMom App, the premiere destination for all things crypto for women, by women. I wanted to create an inclusive, secure platform for women to learn about crypto and then invest it in products that are meaningful to our lives, like college funds. And with April being Financial Literacy Month, there's no better time than today to start learning about cryptocurrency. Here are three ways to start conversations about financial literacy and web3 with your children: 1. Model good behavior by researching first The best way to learn about the basics of crypto is to start researching. There are really great social media accounts for women that encourage conversations and provide the basics of cryptocurrency; Some of my favorites are CryptoWitchClub on Instagram and Elana @TradingFemale on Twitter. You don’t have to know all of the jargon and buzzwords; It’s more about increasing your exposure to slowly gain familiarity. Then, talk about what you've learned with your kids in a casual setting, like at the dinner table. Your kids will certainly be impressed and you get to flex your 'cool mom' muscles! 2. Read Books Together Kids of all ages love to cuddle up and read books together. You can find books at your local library or online that teach kids the basics of crypto, even board books for infants and toddlers like Bitcoin for Babies. For your teens, offer to start a book club and read the book together. Not only are you learning together but you're also building authentic connections that are often difficult to maintain in the teen years. 3. Take the plunge by purchasing yourself first There's no better teacher than experience so now that you're prepared with research and knowledge, take your first step by purchasing your first coin. Don’t feel the need to invest large amounts of money; Invest what you feel comfortable with, whether it's $20 or $200. Platforms like The CryptoMom App allow you to buy small fractions of bitcoin in just three easy steps. If you're looking to connect with other women on their crypto wealth-building journey, sign up for the waitlist for The CryptoMom App to get exclusive, first access to our product.
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Preschool Philosophies Round 1
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Choosing a preschool for your child can be an overwhelming task, especially in Chicago where there are so many options. What is English Early Years curricula? How about Catholic, French Language Immersion, and Montessori, what are the differences, what are the similarities? With so many different preschool philosophies, how do you know which philosophy works for you and your family? In this discussion, you will learn about a variety of philosophies in early childhood education programs and the benefits of each philosophy in regard to character development in early childhood. In addition, our panelists will discuss some things to consider during the preschool search to help you prepare to choose a preschool for your family. There will be time for Q&A at the end! Our esteemed school panel consists of: Erin Woodhams, Director of Marketing, Admissions, and Communications, British International School of Chicago, Lincoln Park Erin Roenna, Community Relations Coordinator, Montessori Academy of Chicago Cecilia Porter, Director of Admissions, Lycée Français de Chicago Corey Jacobsen, Director of Marketing & Admissions, Immaculate Conception-St. Joseph School Thank you to our Presenting Sponsors: British International School of Chicago, Lincoln Park, Lycée Français de Chicago, and Montessori Academy of Chicago. And we appreciate our Supporting Sponsors: Immaculate Conception-St. Joseph School By registering for this event, you agree that NPN may share your name and email address with our presenting sponsor. Thank you to our Presenting Sponsors -
NPN Summer Fun Playdate at CST Academy, Lincoln Park
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Come 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 -
Inclusive, Sensory Exploration NPN Playdate at LEEP Forward
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Join 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 Playdate at CPS Early Learning Center: The Dr. Fisher Early Learning Center in Lincoln Park
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Join 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 -
NPN Play and Create Playdate at Bright Horizons, Lakeview
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Join 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. -
Super Bowl Sunday NPN Playdate at British International School of Chicago, South Loop
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Join 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. -
NPN Playdate at Kids' Work Chicago Riverview
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THIS 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. -
NPN Playdate at Park West Cooperative
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NPN Playdates are back! Join us for Sunday Family Day at Park West Cooperative for a FREE playdate. "Bring the Outdoors In" at the Sunday Family Day with Park West Co-Op Preschool & NPN on Sunday, November 12th, from 9:00-11:00 am. Come with your child to explore outdoor materials inside our award-winning preschool classrooms and indoor gym! Let your child's imagination be your guide and follow them as they investigate a variety of outdoor materials creatively used indoors. Play in our sand and water tables, investigate sticks, leaves, fruits and vegetables. Try painting, build with blocks, complete puzzles, read books, and more. Enjoy the adventure- we hope you will join us! This event is for kids aged 2 - 5 years old, and allergy-friendly snacks provided A goal at Park West Co-op is to infuse our school environment and activities with opportunities for children to further their understanding of literacy, numbers, arts and science in ways that make sense to them and are developmentally appropriate- all in a play-based curriculum. Learn more about Park West Co-op preschool here Park West Cooperative Park West Cooperative is located at 2214 N Bissell St, Chicago, IL 60614. We are accessible just two blocks South of the Fullerton L stop (Red, Brown, Purple lines) and easily accesible from both the Fullerton and Armitage bus. Metered Parking is available on Webster and Street parking is available but please allow some extra time as we are located in the beautiful and busy Lincoln Park Neighborhood. -
NPN Playdate: STEAM Sunday at Bennett
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NPN Playdates are back! Join us for Sunday play at Bennett Day School! Calling all explorers ages 2-5! Join us for a STEAM Sunday playdate on Sunday, Oct. 15 from 9:00 - 11:00 am. Bennett Day School is so excited to be partnering with Neighborhood Parents Network of Chicago (NPN) again to bring Chicago-area families this FREE playdate. There will be fun STEAM activities for kids and light snacks. Parents – grab a cup of coffee and enjoy as your kids have fun and engage with peers! Bennett Day School is located at 955 W Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60642 Parking/Public Transportation Info: 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. Bennett Day School is 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. -
NPN Playdate at British International School of Chicago, Lincoln Park
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NPN Playdates are a perfect start to the day. Join us for Sunday play at the British International School of Chicago, Lincoln Park in their indoor/outdoor play space! Children will enjoy unstructured gross motor activities, sensory play, crafts, and light refreshments. Parents, grab a cup of coffee, chat with other parents, and enjoy an easy morning. This event is best for kids aged 2 - 5 years old but children of all ages are welcome. Spots are limited so register today! Parking Information: There is limited street parking both free and metered around the school. There is a pay-to-park garage directly behind the school and you can bring the ticket into the school to validate for a reduced price. There is also a pay-to-park garage in the New City complex across Halsted. British International School of Chicago is located at 814 W Eastman St, Chicago, IL 60642 -
How to do a Comprehensive Therapeutic Preschool Search
Choosing the right therapeutic preschool for your child can be an overwhelming task, especially in Chicago where there are so many options. With so many different therapeutic approaches, how do you know which approach works for you and your family? In this discussion, you will learn about a variety of therapeutic preschool approaches, hear examples of good questions to ask and things to think about when you are researching therapeutic preschools, how insurance coverage works, and walk away confident in your ability to choose a therapeutic preschool that is a good fit for your family. Our Esteemed Panelists: Lorell Marin, M.Ed., LCSW, BCBA, DT, Founder/CVO, LEEP Forward., Dr. Connie Weil, Clinical Director, Tuesday's Child, Kimberly Shlaes, Director of Preschool Programming & Developmental Therapy, PlayWorks Therapy Inc., Katelyn Suski, Director, Chicago Speech Therapy Academy, and Dr. Jennifer King, Director, Blue Bird Day Wheaton Thank you to our Presenting Sponsor LEEP Forward.
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NPN Playdate at City Garden Waldorf School
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Join us for Sunday play at City Garden Waldorf School! The playdate will start in the private garden where families and children can explore the sandbox, play train, mushroom house, and the rest of the secure play space. Children can roll dough and bake bread with a teacher and while the bread bakes, enjoy a short, age-appropriate puppet play. Afterward, enjoy the fresh-baked bread, continue playing and mingling with other NPN families, and if you like, use the time as an opportunity to talk with the school staff about their program and Waldorf early childhood education. 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. -
NPN Playdate at Rogers Park Montessori
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NPN Playdates are back! Join us for Sunday play at Rogers Park Montessori! There will be fun activities and snacks for the kids! Parents, grab a cup of coffee, 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! Rogers Park Montessori is located at 1800 W Balmoral Ave, Chicago, IL 60640 -
How to Give Your Child a Smart Start: A Workshop for Parents and Caregivers
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Event Details: Give your baby a smart start! Maya Smart, author of Reading for Our Lives, will describe how reading unfolds from birth through the early elementary years and outline what caregivers can do to nurture it at each stage. You will leave armed with information about the six parent levers for literacy success, plus easy and research-based ways to nurture your child’s language and literacy development from the start. Chicago Public Library staff will facilitate an active play space for children and a caregiver before, during and after the presentation to demonstrate early literacy skills in action! Register for this event on the Chicago Public Library's website by clicking here. This is an external partner event. Please contact the organization directly with any questions or concerns: Children's Services (312) 747-4780 REGISTER HERE This event takes place in person at Harold Washington Library Center @ 400 S. State Street Chicago IL 60605. Masks are strongly encouraged in all CPL locations. Register by the start of the event. Chicago Public Library cannot collect personal information online from kids 0 to 13. A parent or guardian’s email address must be used to register. -
CANCELLED: NPN Playdate: Meaningful Milestones Daycare & Preschool
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We apologize for the inconvenience. This playdate has been canceled by our host due to an unforeseeable event. Please join us at our next playdate on Sunday, July 16th at Rogers Park Montessori. RSVP here: https://www.npnparents.org/events/event/335-npn-playdate-at-rogers-park-montessori/ NPN Playdates are back! Join us for Sunday play at Meaningful Milestones Daycare & Preschool! There will be fun activities and snacks for the kids! Parents, grab a cup of coffee, relax and enjoy as your kids experience some fun activities! This event is for kids aged 0 - 5 years old. Spots are limited so register today! Meaningful Milestones is located at 2930 N Campbell Ave, Chicago, IL 60618 -
So Many Preschools, So Little Time (2023)
Choosing a preschool can be overwhelming but in this session, you will get tips on making it manageable. Learn when to start researching schools, how to build a list of schools that are a good fit for your family, and how to manage applications, interviews, and notification letters. You will walk away feeling organized, confident, and ready for this next step. Our esteemed panelists are, Erin Woodhams, Director of Marketing, Admissions, and Communications, British International School of Chicago, Lincoln Park, Melanie Ahmad, Director of Enrollment & Tuition Assistance, The Ancona School, Samantha Maxwell, Preschool Director, Bubbles Academy Arts-Integrated Preschool, Corey Jacobson, Director of Marketing & Admissions, Immaculate Conception-St. Joseph School, Jimia Walker, Owner & Executive Director, Meaningful Milestones Thank you to our Presenting Sponsors British International School of Chicago, Lincoln Park, and The Ancona School. And we appreciate our Supporting Sponsors Bubbles Academy Arts-Integrated Preschool, Immaculate Conception-St. Joseph School, and Meaningful Milestones.
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How to do a Comprehensive Therapeutic Preschool Search
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Choosing the right therapeutic preschool for your child can be an overwhelming task, especially in Chicago where there are so many options. With so many different therapeutic approaches, how do you know which approach works for you and your family? In this discussion, you will learn about a variety of therapeutic preschool approaches, hear examples of good questions to ask and things to think about when you are researching therapeutic preschools, how insurance coverage works, and walk away confident in your ability to choose a therapeutic preschool that is a good fit for your family. Our Esteemed Panelists: Lorell Marin, M.Ed., LCSW, BCBA, DT, Founder/CVO, LEEP Forward. Dr. Connie Weil, Clinical Director, Tuesday's Child Kimberly Shlaes, Director of Preschool Programming & Developmental Therapy, PlayWorks Therapy Inc. Katelyn Suski, Director, Chicago Speech Therapy Academy Dr. Jennifer King, Director, Blue Bird Day Wheaton Thank you to our Presenting Sponsor LEEP Forward. By registering for this event, you agree that NPN may share your name and email address with our presenting sponsor. -
Ribbon Cutting Lincoln Park Early Learning Center
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Join us in this historic event - the opening of our new Chicago Public School! This Lincoln Park Early Learning Center will serve 4-year-olds with high-quality full-day preschool in our shared commitment to Universal Preschool across Chicago. We look forward to celebrating with you! 9:00-9:30am: (Press Conference) 9:30-9:40am: Join Us for Cutting of the Ribbon! Clark Street Plaza 9:45-10:30: Celebrate with us! Coffee Reception, Room 201 & Self-Guided Tour of a Sample Classroom, Room 202 No RSVP Required. Street and garage parking available. This is an external partner event. Please contact the organization directly with any questions or concerns: clfranklin4@cps.edu -
Tips on How to Have a Smooth Preschool Transition (2023)
Starting preschool is a big step and it can be an amazing experience for you and your child. In this session, we will discuss helpful routines you can start at home with your child to prepare for a smooth transition, separation anxiety, and any lingering doubts you might have about whether your child is ready or not. Our esteemed panel consists of Chloe Robson, Head of Early Years, British International School of Chicago, South Loop, Jimia Walker, Owner & Executive Director, Meaningful Milestones, Dr. Camille Franklin, Family Engagement Coordinator, CPS Office of Early Childhood Education, Meg Fitzgerald, Early Childhood Director, Bennett Day School Thank you to our Presenting Sponsor the British International School of Chicago, South Loop and we appreciate our Supporting Sponsor, Meaningful Milestones.
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How To Approach "Hot Button" Topics on a School Tour (2022)
It's that time of year again, school search time! Schools are welcoming prospective families for in-person tours and open houses. What type of questions are appropriate to ask during a tour or open house? Do you have questions about discipline, diversity, inclusion and bullying? Are any subjects off limits? Whether you are looking for a preschool, an elementary school, looking to transfer to a new school or searching for a high school, this session is for you. In this session, our panelists will discuss why it is important to ask all questions, how to ask sensitive questions, and what are good follow up questions. They will also give examples of comprehensive answers. Our esteemed panelists: Erin Woodhams, Director of Marketing, Admissions, and Communications, British International School of Chicago, Lincoln Park, Tami Doig, Head of School, Daystar Academy, Laura Maheshwary, Director of Enrollment (PreK - 2nd), Bennett Day School, Sarah Cudnik, Owner, Kids Work Chicago Riverview Thank you to our Presenting Sponsor British International School of Chicago, Lincoln Park.
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Early Childhood Educational Philosophies and Mental Health (2022)
Laura Maheshwary, Director of Enrollment (PreK-2), with Bennett Day School, Erin Woodhams, Director of Marketing, Admissions & Communications with British International School of Chicago, Lincoln Park and Cecilia Porter, Director of Admissions with Lycée Français de Chicago discuss the importance of a strong mental health foundation in early childhood. Learn how early childhood programs build foundational skills that help young children navigate challenges and manage their feelings. This session was presented live on 9-24-22 at the NPN School Fair and re-recorded on 10-5-22.
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CPS Universal Free Pre-K, What you Need to Know (2022)
Chicago's Universal Pre-K initiative (free preschool for 4-year-olds) is now being offered to all Chicago families this fall 2022. Grace Lee Sawin of Chicago School GPS will give a presentation that walks you through the Pre-K application and admissions process. This webinar was recorded on 9-24-22 at the NPN School Fair; all information is current through then.