Preschool Program

(3-5 years old)

We provide preschoolers with a gold standard of quality early learning. 98% of our preschool graduates who take the selective enrollment test get accepted into the city’s top-tier selective enrollment and magnet elementary schools—performing above grade level in both reading and math.

Our classrooms maintain a culture of fun and cooperative play. Our dedicated preschool teachers guide students with an intentional creative curriculum and assign a consistent daily schedule and classroom roles. More complex academic concepts in math, science, literacy, writing, technology, and language arts are brought into our Interest Areas, and our Enrichment Programs continue to introduce young minds and hearts to new ways of self-expression.

A three-year-old and four-year-old work on activity sheets together in a Young Achievers Academy classroom.
Interest Areas

Our three and four-year-old classroom is designed to promote hands-on learning, independence, and higher-order thinking. To promote cooperative learning and individual exploration, the classroom is divided into interest areas that promote the skills children will need to continue advancing their academic progress in reading, math, technology, writing, manipulatives, science, dramatic play, and blocks. During Free Choice, children select the interest areas that most appeal to them. Allowing children to make choices that encourage independence and reinforces learning as a positive and exciting experience.

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Foreign Language

Our students are introduced to Spanish, French, and Mandarin Chinese!

Studies have shown that children who learn a second language develop cognitive advantages over children who do not. Preschool is the perfect time to introduce children to beginning foreign language instruction when they have an innate ability to more easily absorb languages and even duplicate native-like pronunciations and intonations. Knowing other languages at this early stage not only prepares children for more advanced levels of proficiency but enables them to gain a deeper understanding of different cultures and equips them for living and working in a global society.

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Enrichment Programs

Every child possesses within them many talents and interests. Which ones will emerge? Sometimes it can be a surprise, but it’s always exciting to see. Preschoolers can participate in all enrichment classes, including in-person and virtual field trips that enhance what they learn in the classroom. Enrichment Programs vary by location but include full-immersion foreign languages (Spanish, French, Mandarin Chinese), dance, music, sports, and cooking. Designed to stimulate talents and interests, our enrichment programs are led by trained professionals in small group settings.

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Structured Environment

Increased structure creates a sense of security, develops responsibility, and promotes respect for self and others. Our preschool students follow a consistent daily schedule and are assigned classroom jobs. By incorporating these structural elements, children are better prepared to take on the exciting new challenges and developmental tasks that preschool has in store for them. 

High-Quality Early Education For Chicago’s Preschoolers

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Handwriting Without Tears

Our preschoolers improve their handwriting and language development in an enjoyable and stress-free way. We use multisensory methods and tools to teach preschoolers to write legibly and fluently in a natural way. Activities that reinforce pencil grip, posture, and body awareness make handwriting a fun skill that helps students improve their writing skills.

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Parent Communication

Parental involvement makes all the difference in a child’s academic and social-emotional well-being. That’s why we promote active parent participation. We’ll continually keep you in the loop via email and direct educator-to-parent communication. You’ll receive updates, photos, and ongoing assessments of your preschooler’s progress and special moments. We want you to share in our excitement as your little one makes strides in their development and Kindergarten preparedness.

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Nutritious Meals

A healthy diet and regular activity can stabilize energy, sharpen the mind, and improve mood- allowing children to maximize their potential both inside and outside of school. We provide nutritious, delicious breakfast, lunch, and snacks. We are a peanut-free facility.

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Enroll Your Young Achiever Today

Reach out now to learn more about our programs and schedule your visit!