Preschool

Nature-Based Approach

Acorns to Oaks

At Acorns to Oaks, we provide a unique nature-based preschool experience that fosters a love for the outdoors. Our seasonal inquiry units emphasize hands-on exploration, allowing children to learn about their environment through play and discovery. We focus on emotional and social development, encouraging teamwork, resilience, and creativity. Our teachers foster a love for the environment, teaching the importance of stewardship and connection to the world around us. Enroll today and watch your child thrive as they transform from acorns into mighty oaks!

• Spend the majority of time exploring the outdoors; program will be held in the nature-inspired, indoor classroom during severe weather conditions
• 2:14 teacher/student ratio
• Co-teachers with education/science degrees and/or extensive experience in early childhood settings
• Daily schedule provides predictable routines while allowing opportunities for spontaneity and child-led interests
• Science, math, literacy and gross motor skills included in activities such as discovering insects under logs, finding animal tracks, observing songbirds, measuring tree trunks, weighing rocks and studying flowers and snowflakes
• Cultivate a profound connection to nature to become a lifelong steward of the environment expressing compassion toward plants, animals and the natural world

 Preschool 2024-2025 Handbook

Park District Registration Form

Hickory Knolls Discovery Center & Natural Area

• • For ages 3-5
  • Meet 3 days per week

To register: click here

CLASS LEVEL REQUIREMENTS

NbECE: Must be age 3 by Sep 1 and toilet trained.

For more or specific details about nature preschool, please contact Emily Shanahan, Nature Programs Supervisor at eshanahan@stcparks.org or 630-513-4393.

After registering, you will receive an eMail from ePACT, the District’s secure emergency network, to create an account and complete medical & emergency contact information.

Payment Options

1. Pay the full activity registration fee at the time of registration.
2. Choose to have monthly payments, determined by the total number of classes, automatically withdrawn from your bank account. Monthly payment information is required at the time of registration. A $50 initial payment per session will secure your child’s place in this program. Payments will occur on the 15th of each month beginning August through April.

• Electronic Check Payment (ECP) Monthly payments will be automatically debited from your checking or savings account.
• Credit Card Authorization (CCA) Monthly payments will be automatically charged to your credit card: Visa, Mastercard, Discover or American Express

Refund Policy

1. Refunds requested will be issued, less a $50 withdrawal fee.
2. Refunds will be granted, less the $50 withdrawal fee, if a valid physician’s written excuse or proof of relocation out of the area are submitted. Refunds may be pro-rated based upon the remaining number of classes in the session.
3. The Park District reserves the right to review and make the final decision on all refunds.

Age-Appropriate Nature Activities

To search for even more programs for preschoolers: click here