Spotlight on Grace Lutheran Preschool: Playing with Purpose
At Grace Lutheran Preschool in La Grange, Illinois, learning isn’t confined to the classroom; it happens through joyful play, meaningful relationships, and a deep connection to God’s creation. Under the direction of Jennifer M. Zick, Grace Lutheran’s approach to early childhood education is grounded in what they call “play with purpose.”
“Our ‘play with purpose’ approach to curriculum is designed to stimulate developmental learning and places a strong emphasis on social interaction, problem-solving, exploration, self-control, self-expression, and coordination. We believe children learn best when they are doing hands-on projects, games, and experiments.”
Each week, children explore a new theme that ties into the Illinois Early Learning Standards, allowing them to build skills through discovery and creativity. The school also emphasizes community connections, such as monthly story time with the local librarian, weekly music and chapel, and daily opportunities for imaginative play.
“Our ultimate goal is that your child will leave us with a strong mind, body, and soul and will be equipped to meet the challenges of kindergarten and beyond.”
Learning Beyond the Classroom Walls
At Grace Lutheran Preschool, care for children extends far beyond academics. The program focuses on nurturing the whole child, mind, body, and spirit.
“All well-balanced meals are cooked in-house, and provide the students a diversity of ethnic foods as well as family favorites.”
Their Nature-Based Playground has become a cornerstone of this holistic philosophy. Their Nature-based Playground offers numerous benefits for children, including enhanced physical health, improved cognitive functioning, and increased social skills.
“It encourages active play, creativity, and a connection with God and nature, while also fostering environmental awareness…Weather permitting, every class spends time outside daily; on colder or rainy days, children enjoy movement and play in the school’s indoor gym.”
Grace Lutheran offers full-day programs for children aged 15 months to 6 years, as well as a five-hour preschool and pre-kindergarten program, each designed to meet families where they are while ensuring every child feels loved, supported, and inspired.
Empowered by Partnership and Faith
As a proud member of the ELEA, Grace Lutheran Preschool recognizes how vital it is for educators and leaders to stay connected with others who share their mission.
“ELEA provides a supportive community that fosters leadership, encourages professional growth, and strengthens faith-based education & ministry.”
For Jennifer, who also serves as Adjunct Faculty at the local community college and sits on an Early Childhood Advisory Board, the resources and relationships built through ELEA have been invaluable.
“Directing an Early Childhood program can be very challenging but connecting with peers through weekly emails from other directors through ELEA makes things much smoother. I can share my experiences not only from Directing but also as Adjunct faculty at the community college and my membership on the Early Childhood Advisory board.”
She elaborated on her experience with ELEA, noting that her membership provides numerous advantages, including networking opportunities, professional development, and enhanced credibility within the industry.
“It’s wonderful to be part of a group that truly understands the heart of our work.”
Looking Ahead
Grace Lutheran Preschool is preparing for an exciting year ahead. In the upcoming year, they will include classroom upgrades with expansion!
“This is crucial for enhancing student engagement, improving learning outcomes, and preparing students for the future. Upgrades can modernize the learning environment, fostering a more stimulating and effective educational experience.”
Jennifer is confident that the ELEA community will continue to play an important role in that growth. She shared that not only have ELEA members shared experiences with numerous vendors, but have also been a network that helps support our classroom upgrades and enriches what they can offer their students.
A Community Guided by God’s Light
Grace Lutheran Preschool continues to shine as a place where children grow not only academically but spiritually and emotionally. Through creative learning, outdoor exploration, and Christ-centered care, they’re building a foundation of faith and curiosity that will stay with their students for life.
“Our goal is to help children develop a strong sense of who they are, to see God’s love reflected in the world around them, and to know that learning is an adventure filled with wonder.”
To learn more about Grace Lutheran Preschool visit their website at www.gracelutheran-lg.org/preschool
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