Programs
OUR TEACHING PHILOSOPHY
At GJK, we are more than just a preschool—we are a family united in our mission to foster curiosity, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning through play.
We believe children learn best through play and meaningful connections. Our emergent curriculum grows from their interests allowing them to explore, create, and discover alongside trusted teachers and peers. Rooted in the Illinois Early Learning & Development Standards and Common Core, our approach guides each child’s unique learning journey through cognitive, social, emotional and physical growth in a warm and enriching environment.
Birth to five is a crucial stage of brain development, and we lay the foundation for lifelong learning by creating a safe, supportive space where children feel valued and inspired. Together, we build the future – one child, one family, and one connection at a time.
PROGRAMS & CURRICULUM
Our programs are meant to foster confidence, independence, and a love for learning through meaningful play, social connections, and engaging experiences.
Whether it’s separating from parents for the first time, forming friendships, working in groups, or embracing mistakes as part of learning, every milestone is a step toward growth. With nurturing guidance, routine, encouragement, and play-based exploration, we help set the foundation for a lifetime of learning in a way that is joyful, supportive, and empowering.
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Age: 12 Months (by September 1st)
About: This engaging class fosters toddler development through play and social exploration alongside parents/caregivers. Each session features activities like art, sensory play, pretend play, and motor skill development. Interactive music time incorporates props, instruments, and movement, creating a fun, enriching experience for all.
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Age: 2 Years Old (by September 1st)
About: Our two-year-old program fosters independent play and social growth in an engaging environment. Through art, sensory play, gym time, and music, children learn through exploration and hands-on activities. Staff assists with separation at the start of the school year to ensure a smooth transition.
Notes:
Choice of 2-day, 3-day, or 5-day program
Enrichments are available to extend your day (see program chart)
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Age: 3 Years Old (by September 1st)
About: Our three-year-old program focuses on learning through play, encouraging curiosity and confidence. Children explore science, math, literacy, art, and gross motor activities while developing social skills and self-esteem. Through guided interactions, they learn to engage positively with peers, navigate social situations, and build confidence.
Notes:
5-day program only
Enrichments are available to extend your day (see program chart)
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Age: 4 Years Old (by September 1st)
About: Our four-year-old Junior Kindergarten offers a rich, play-based learning experience, exploring math, science, art, music, social skills, and literacy. Children develop pre-reading skills and letter-sound recognition while learning teamwork and cooperation. Small group lessons with our Kindergarten Readiness Teachers focus on strengthening literacy, math, and social-emotional development.
A daily hot lunch promotes socialization, language development, and time management—skills needed for kindergarten. Our goal is to provide an age-appropriate academic foundation, cultivate a love of learning, and build self-esteem and respect for self and others.
Notes:
5-day program only
Enrichments are available to extend your day (see program chart)
Summer Camp
Camp GJK provides a safe, nurturing, and fun environment filled with outdoor activities that inspire creativity and excitement. Age-appropriate programs include sand and water table play, outdoor art, music, and non-competitive games—all designed to make the most of the summer weather.
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An excellent, gentle start to engagement at school. We begin each session with “choice activities,” circle time songs and stories, and movement in either the Tot Gym or the Playground. It’s a wonderful way to start a connection with other parents and our youngest learners.
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Together with their caregivers, campers will explore, enjoy circle time with songs and stories, engage in outdoor play, and create messy process art. The camp will be held in a 2s classroom to ensure a smooth transition for the fall school year.
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Camp days are filled with fun and adventure! Sprinkler play, outdoor games, craft projects, and cooking projects will keep your camper smiling.
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Campers will enjoy sports, craft projects, water play, short walking field trips, and more! Each week, children participate in a variety of activities based on a “summer” theme.
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For rising 7-9th graders, our CIT program provides hands-on experience and responsibilities in a professional setting. Students interested in working with young children can apply to learn the skills needed to become a counselor via the Contact page.
Lunch & Snack
Glencoe Junior Kindergarten is proud to partner with Taste for Kids for our daily snack and lunch service during the school year. Taste for Kids is a local provider committed to serving healthy, delicious food in a safe, environmentally friendly way. Their meals are made from scratch daily, with locally sourced ingredients whenever possible.
