Flexible Schedule
At Lake Forest Preschool, we know every family’s needs are different, so we make scheduling simple and flexible. We offer part-time and full-time options, and you can customize your child’s day to fit your schedule.
Our flexible programs include:
- Half-day (3-hour) sessions – morning or afternoon
- Full-day (8:30 AM – 5:30 PM) care for working families
- Custom schedules – choose however many hours you need each day
- 1 to 5 days per week – attend as often as works for your family
- Extended care for early drop-off or late pick-up
Whether you need just a few hours a week or a full-day program, we’ll create a schedule that fits your family while giving your child a safe, engaging, and enriching preschool experience.
Lake Forest Preschool Principles
The Montessori Approach
The Reggio Emilia Approach
The Reggio Emilia Approach
The Montessori method teaches independence, hands-on exploration, and self-paced development. Children choose meaningful activities that build practical skills and curiosity. Guided by trained educators, they learn in a calm, structured environment that supports their natural growth and love of learning.
The Reggio Emilia Approach
The Reggio Emilia Approach
The Reggio Emilia Approach
We follow the Reggio Emilia approach, where children learn through exploration, collaboration, and creativity. Teachers observe and guide as children investigate their interests, helping them build confidence and express themselves in meaningful ways.
The Waldorf Approach
The Reggio Emilia Approach
The Waldorf Approach
The Waldorf approach focuses on nurturing the whole child—imagination, creativity, and emotional growth. Through storytelling, arts, nature play, and rhythm, children develop at their own pace in a warm, supportive environment guided by experienced teachers. This approach fosters a deep connection to the world and a lifelong love of learning.
Parent Partnership
We value strong parent partnerships and open communication. By involving families through updates, events, and collaboration, we create a supportive learning environment that helps every child thrive both at school and at home.
About Lake Forest Preschool
Toddler Care
Preschool Program
Preschool Program
Our toddler program offers a warm, nurturing environment where little ones begin to explore the world with confidence. Through hands-on activities, movement, music, and early language development, toddlers build independence, social skills, and a love for learning—at their own pace.
Preschool Program
Preschool Program
Preschool Program
Designed to spark curiosity and creativity, our preschool program blends Montessori methods with structured routines. Children build foundational skills in literacy, math, and practical life, while learning to work independently, collaborate with peers, and develop emotional resilience.
Pre-k Program
Preschool Program
Pre-k Program
Our Pre-K program prepares children for a smooth transition to kindergarten and beyond. With a strong focus on early academics, problem-solving, and critical thinking, children gain the confidence and skills they need to thrive in the next stage of their educational journey.
What We Teach
Grace & Courtesy Skills
Handling Classroom Materials:
- Push in chairs after getting up.
- Place items gently back into their proper place
- Organize personal items like:
- Water bottle
- Lunch pail
- Backpack
- Handle toys carefully (e.g., avoid stepping on them).
- Pick up items found on the floor and return them to their proper location.
Classroom Etiquette:
- Take only one worksheet or coloring page from the tray.
- Use one pencil or color at a time for tasks.
- Walk in the classroom with hands behind the back.
- Speak using an inside voice.
- Keep hands and feet to themselves.
Returning Materials:
- Place materials back on the shelf, holding them securely.
- For Montessori jobs:
- Carry rugs or trays with two hands.
- Unroll rugs neatly in a row
- Place materials on the left side of the rug (no sitting or walking on rugs).
- Open lids carefully and place them under the box.
- Return jobs to their proper location with care.
Classroom Movement:
- Walk, do not crawl, around rugs and peers.
- Walk behind people instead of in front of them..
- Sit criss-cross applesauce with hands in the lap.
Mealtime Manners:
- Place food and drinks on a placemat.
- Listen and respond the first time their name is called.
Academic Skills
Foundational Concepts:
- Colors: Teach recognition with the "Rainbow Song."
- Shapes: Learn using a fun "Shapes Song."
- Emotions: Understand and express feelings with "If You’re Happy" song.
- Body Parts: Learn through "Head, Shoulders, Knees, and Toes."
Manners:
- Teach polite words like "Please" and "Thank You" with a song.
Animals & Science:
- Recognize animals and their sounds.
- Teach continents using a song and map activities.
- Teach planets with "Earth Goes Around the Sun" song.
- Introduce seasons and the months of the year.
Time Awareness:
- Days of the week: Learn "Today, Yesterday, Tomorrow" with a 7-day Week Song.
Phonics & Language:
- Learn ABC sounds and phonics.
- Recognize and spell their own name.
- Practice reading and writing three-letter words.
Math:
- Counting: 1–10 and beyond (1–100).
- Recognizing numbers and learning to write them (1–10).
- Hold a pencil properly and practice tracing.
Early Writing Skills:
- Write their name.
- Practice tracing and transitioning to independent writing.
By instilling these grace, courtesy, and academic skills, children develop both a strong foundation in learning and important life skills!
See Our Preschool in Action!
Explore a nurturing and inspiring environment where your child can grow and thrive. Schedule a personalized tour today to meet our dedicated teachers, see our classrooms, and learn about our unique approach to early childhood education.