In this video, Dr. Camille Franklin, Network 4 Family Engagement Coordinator from the CPS Office of Early Childhood Education talks with NPN staff members Amy and Sitaara about the preschool options in CPS. We discuss CPS PreK, community-based preschool, early learning programs and more. Learn how to determine which type is right for your family, when to apply, how to apply and what to do once the offers come out. Links to resources we discussed: Office of Early Childhood Education Chic

Overwhelmed by school options in the city? Chicago parents have many choices (and questions!) when it comes to private preschools & elementary schools. How do you know which school will be the right fit for your child? How will you fit in as a parent? How can you put your best foot forward during the application process? What do you want to know about financial aid but are afraid to ask? How do you find a "right-fit" school during a pandemic? Join us for an intimate panel discussion wit

Starting preschool is a big deal for both parents and children. From separation anxiety to making new friends to learning new skills, there is a lot to consider and prepare for. Take this opportunity to learn from experts about how to make this a smooth and happy transition for everyone in your family.  Preschool experts will discuss how to prepare for the first day of preschool and beyond, how to handle separation anxiety and some things parents and children can look forward to during these spe

How do Middle Schools Support the Development of Executive Function Skills in Students? Parents will learn from our school panelists on what exactly is Executive Function in the school setting, why it is important for students to develop these skills and how schools are supporting building EF in students to help them succeed in the classroom.    In this recording, you will also enjoy a robust Q&A from parents who attended the live recording of the Webinar.    Our  Panelis

Applying for Kindergarten can seem like an overwhelming process, especially in Chicago where there are so many amazing schools to consider. Although there are many different private schools in our city, there are common application elements and procedures across them all.  In this intimate recorded live discussion, elementary school experts discuss the Kindergarten application process and answer your questions, with a parent Q&A at the end.  This video should leave you with a better und

Preparing for preschool can seem like an overwhelming process. Although there are many different preschools in Chicago, there are some common elements to preschool that every parent needs to consider. In this intimate recorded live discussion, preschool experts will discuss the logistics of preschool and answer your questions.  You will walk away from this discussion knowing: 1. What to expect the first week of preschool  2. What to bring the first day, when to expect a phone call

Over 40 independent schools in the Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana area educate students from age two to 12th grade. What makes an independent school different from other private schools and public schools? What are the advantages of an independent school education? Come and hear from some of Chicago's most sought-after independent schools to learn about an independent school education, and what makes each independent school unique.   Featuring: Bennett Day School British Interna

In this session you'll hear from some of Chicago's most sought-after religious-based schools. Learn about what differentiates each of these religious schools from other private and public schools, some advantages of a religious school education, and how these schools help students thrive.  Featuring: Chicago Jewish Day School St. Josaphat School St. James Lutheran School This session was recorded live on 12/11/25.

Choosing childcare that is right for your family can seem like an overwhelming process, especially in Chicago where there are so many options to consider. In this intimate live discussion, we talk with three Chicago daycare experts about safety, curriculum, daily activities, enrollment/finances, family-teacher relationships and transitioning into group care comfortably.  Our esteemed panelists are Sarah Cudnik of Kids' Work Chicago and Kids' Work Chicago Too, Mia Cubrilo of Choo Choo Chicag

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.