Classes
About the school
Kids & Company Preschool is quite special. Established preschool teachers, the United Methodist Church, and families throughout the Lincoln-Way area cooperatively developed this community outreach program. Our mission is to provide families with an outstanding preschool ministry that integrates a developmentally appropriate curriculum, Christian values, and family participation.
Kids & Company families make our mission possible! While a preschool is many things – arts & crafts, books & toys, circle time & games – we at Kids & Company believe that the heart of a preschool is family. We believe that a preschool is about children first and thrives on the relationships between children, teachers and parents. Preschools are founded upon the concept of community, and for Kids & Company Preschool, that community is the United Methodist Church of New Lenox.
We are thankful for our wonderful church and the loving families who embrace this ministry as a community endeavor. It is both a pleasure and a blessing to share in the lives of our “kids” and “company.”
Sincerely,
Kids & Company Teachers
Program & Curriculum
Kids & Company Preschool utilizes a teacher created thematic curriculum that emphasizes experiential and sensory learning. Throughout our curriculum we celebrate the seasons and special times of the year. Readiness skills are integrated throughout our day in fun and creative ways. Our activities are developmentally appropriate and take into consideration individual differences in interest, attention span, physical development, and maturity.
Daily classroom routines offer a balance of the following: active and quiet times; large and small group activities; teacher and student directed activities; self-motivated group and independent play; and indoor/outdoor exploration. Activities include games, music, story time, arts and crafts, show and tell, and free choice. Experiences in early math, language arts and science are incorporated throughout the day. Classroom schedules are flexible and tailored to the needs of each class and take into account basic routines and transition times such as arrival, departure, snack time, and self-help skills.
We feel that it is important to celebrate our students and families throughout the year at Kids & Company. We host Family Night during the Christmas season in order to bring our families together for a night of fun and festivities. In the spring we host an annual breakfast or dinner fundraiser, complete with an art gallery and boutique. Finally, May brings our Program and Graduation Ceremony to celebrate our growth, success, and the end to a glorious school year. We truly enjoy these opportunities to spend time with our loved ones – the children and families of Kids & Company Preschool.
Teachers
Kids & Company Preschool was founded in the Fall of 2000 as an ear;y educational opportunity incorporating religious faith values. Kids & Company is a unique endeavor that has been nurtured by caring teachers with complementary philosophies, skills, and teaching styles. Our preschool began as, and still is, a truly child-focused, family enriched program.
Kids & Company is managed cooperatively, with each teacher actively participating in the development of curriculum and programs. Our teachers have rich and diverse talents, educational backgrounds and experiences – all of which contribute to the high quality of our preschool. Individual teachers retain membership in various professional organizations including the National Association for the Education of Young Children. Staff members are certified by the American Red Cross in infant, child and Adult CPR as well as first aid.
While Kids & Company Preschool is a license-exempt ministry, we believe in the concept of excellence. Our classrooms and curriculum not only meet, but often exceed the licensing standards set forth by the State of Illinois. The United Methodist Church of New Lenox Board of Trustees and Administrative Council currently monitor Kids & Company Preschool. In addition, our preschool is under the direct supervision of the UMC Family Life Committee. We are extremely fortunate to be a part of such a committed and supportive community!