EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER

The peal of children's laughter echoes throughout the walls of 4300 N. California, where every day, 80 preschool children paint, draw, sing, dance and play. The KACS Early Childhood Center, founded in 1979, is a place that treasures and nourishes our community’s most precious resources: our children. Combining learning with interactive activities, our certified teachers prepare daily lessons, field trips, excursions to beautiful Horner Park, arts and crafts, and a miscellany of other activities designed to provide a supportive, enriching environment for children from diverse backgrounds.
Children come from various backgrounds, and as a result, the rich cultural performances presented by the children during the Culture Show in May are always a delight to watch. Other events include the Pre-school graduation in August and a Christmas party at the end of each year. KACS is also responsive to the needs of the entire family, providing counseling, health and nutrition screenings, and parenting education workshops.

AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM

Norman Garmezy said that a resilient child is one who works well, plays well, loves well and expects well (1974). KACS after-school program tries to achieve that by providing a safe place for children to learn and play. It also provides guidance, support, and a variety of opportunities that will contribute to the healthy development of young people. The after-school program began in February of 1990 as a part of the KACS Early Childhood Center. It offers various academic and non-academic activities to facilitate the development of the following areas: cognitive, social and moral.

REQUIREMENTS FOR PARENTS

Parents should be working full-time, or studying to obtain a GED or ESL certificate, or studying to obtain a bachelor's degree and at least working 10 hours a week. Priority is given to teen mothers who live or work in Chicago, but all are welcome to apply.

REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILDREN

Preschool program: 3 to 5 years old.
After school program: 6 to 12 years old.

COST

Sliding scale: This depends on the number of family members and the total family income, but is always less costly than comparable private day care services.

HOURS OF OPERATION

Monday to Friday, 7 AM to 5:30 PM

Call for more information.
773-583-8281
(Spanish Available)