The Elmhurst Park District recognizes that children’s experiences in their early years of life influence how they develop, learn, and interact with the world around them. Early childhood is marked by tremendous growth and sets the foundation for children’s future learning and ongoing development.
To support children in their early years of life, the Elmhurst Park District offers a variety of early childhood education and enrichment programs that are intentionally designed for children ages birth through five years. Our programs allow children to progress from taking a class with a parent or caregiver to taking classes independently. Our early childhood instructors have a background in early childhood education, and are CPR/AED certified.
Parent & Child Programs
For infants through two years old, these programs offer a nurturing environment for early learning and development. Parents and their child engage in activities including sensory exploration, social games, and music experiences designed to support cognitive development and support motor skills. These programs emphasize parent-child bonding, and create a supportive environment for parents to connect with other parents in their community.
Music & Movement Programs
Children engage in activities including singing, dancing, exploring musical instruments, rhythm, and rhymes! Our music and movement programs support language and cognitive development while having fun and building confidence.
Enrichment & Education Programs
Extend your child’s learning with our educational and enrichment programs for children ages three through five years old. These program offerings include art exploration, reading and literacy enrichment, and STEAM investigation.
If you would like to learn more about our early childhood educational opportunities, please explore our Sunbeams & Rainbows Preschool program!
Lunch Box Club
Many of our programs also pair with Lunch Box Club. When registered for Lunch Box Club at Wagner Community Center, preschoolers can bridge the gap between preschool and their next afternoon program. An Elmhurst Park District staff member will escort participants from one program to the next. Look for the Lunch Box Club logo in the brochure guide next to all eligible transfer programs!
Summer Fun for the Little Ones
Extend your child’s fun and learning throughout the summer months! Our Summer Fun for the Little Ones summer camp programs include a variety of opportunities to learn, explore, and have some summer fun!
