Welcome to the “Hundred Acre Woods”, our infant – 3 year old building where children learn new things everyday and are inspired to learn more. Our goal is to care for each and every child in a kind, gentle, intelligent and soft-spoken manner to insure that the children feel loved, respected, happy and well-tended. Our building is designed with open classrooms that are nicely decorated and conducive to safe exploration and learning. Outside our fenced in, age-appropriate playgrounds encourage running, climbing and swinging and allow many an adventure to be played out.

Our infant room cradles “the Roos”.
Roo is the smallest animal in the Hundred Acre Woods. “Roos” are caring, loving and nurturing. As A.A. Milne said, “Sometimes the smallest things take up the most room in your heart.” We support and honor the individuality of development as children grow during this amazing 1st year.

Routines and schedules are flexible to meet each individual child’s needs. Play, naps, snuggling, feeding, singing, reading, talking and sign language occur throughout the day as your baby learns and grows.

 

 

The one-year old room is home to our “Rabbits.”
“Rabbits” are full of cleverness, relaxed, content, timid, shy and very inquisitive.
“Any day spent with you, Rabbit is my favorite day, so TODAY is my new favorite day!” said, Pooh.
One year olds are walking, babbling, letting their curiosity get the better of them, and letting their feelings be known. They may still be drinking from a bottle, though they are getting the hang of a cup. Teachers support each child’s growth and development with a sense of wonder and enthusiasm.
Activities that promote emerging fine motor, eye/hand coordination, large motor development and language are provided as well as a continuation of sign language.

 

 

In the two-year old room our “Tiggers” bounce.
“Tiggers” are cheerful, have great energy and enthusiasm. They have seemingly boundless energy and bright spirits. They are rarely still, though they are always very well-meaning. Tiggers are adventurous and their actions can sometimes lead to mischief.
“Tiggers are wonderful things!” stated Tigger.
“Just because an animal is large, it does not mean he doesn’t want kindness; however big Tigger seems to be, remember that he wants as much kindness as Roo.”

 

 

Whooooo? The Threes and they are our “Owls”.
“Owls” are observant, insightful, have expressive body language, and of course, they are very wise.
Three year olds love to learn and impress us daily with their knowledge.
“The highest form of wisdom, said Owl, is kindness.”
“A little bit of consideration, a little thought of others, makes all the difference.”

 

 

 

Welcome to “River Rock Gardens” where gardens and children bloom. River Rock Gardens is a wonderful place for children to grow. Our building identity incorporates our summer program, known as Camp River Rock and our gardens, an outreach program of Lisle Community Garden.
Indoors, each classroom has an identity of its own, and care is offered in a kind, gentle, intelligent and soft-spoken manner to insure that each child feels loved, respected, happy and well-tended. Our four-year old daycare, preschool, UPK and before and after school programs are located in this building.

Outside,one of the focal points of our playground is our “Ark of Dreams”. This mighty ship has seen many a “pirate” steer their voyage, as well as children herding their stuffed animals up the plank to head off on a long journey. At the other end of our playground is our literacy garden with playhouse and tractor where children can find mail boxes with books to enjoy while on the playground. We also have a pavilion for outdoor snacks and lunches when weather allows.
Six gardens surround our building and our grounds include a winding maze to explore. Each add to the opportunities to learn, grow and have fun while at our center.

Fours take wing and then become our “Hummingbirds” upon landing in the classroom. Hummingbirds are wonderful little creatures! Each has their own personality, not to mention, attitude! Fours flit from one learning center to another gaining in confidence and knowledge as they learn through their play and ready themselves for Kindergarten.
.Hummingbirds dart lightly through the world, spreading their message of joy and beauty, teaching us to appreciate the wonder and magic of everyday existence.

Preschoolers are our “Turtles”.
Turtles are observers. They are patient, cautious, and deliberate.
“Try to be like the turtle; at ease in your own shell.” – Bill Copeland
It is our goal that during the year spent in preschool each child will continue to develop social skills. Cooperating, taking turns and empathy are life skills children need for school and for adulthood. Courtesy and manners are also an essential part of life in the classroom. Emotional support and secure relationships help children acquire both self-confidence and the ability to function as a member of a group. As children are encouraged to use their words, listen to one-another and problem-solve, optimal learning takes place.
Language development empowers children to actively and positively participate in both the cognitive and social aspect of the classroom. Emerging literacy is heavily stressed in the classroom. Children begin work on their pre-reading skills through fun literacy songs and activities and exposure to books and book making.
Preschoolers learn best through their play. Our teachers set up learning centers where play makes learning fun!

Universal Pre-Kindergarten children are our “Busy Bees”.
Bees are busy, social creatures and are very adaptable.
“One can no more approach people without love than one can approach bees without care. Such is the quality of bees.” -Leo Tolstoy.
“Aerodynamically, the bumble bee shouldn’t be able to fly, but the bumble bee doesn’t know it so it goes on flying anyway.” – Mary Kay Ash