We focus on instilling confidence, independence, curiosity and a love of learning in the early years at St. Viator. Our 3 and 4-year-old preschool programs provide a solid foundation and a nurturing environment for social, emotional and academic development that we hope places children on a path to life-long learning.
Our preschool programs use hands-on learning to develop the entire child – mind, body and spirit. Questions and discussions are encouraged, as self-help skills are developed to build independence and pride. St. Viator’s preschool programs go through a rigorous evaluation process and are recognized by the Office of Catholic Schools and the Illinois State Board of Education. Preschool children take part in activities to build fine motor skills, music, and library, and are incorporated into specialized programs, which teach anti-bullying and fine art appreciation. Up-to-date technology is highly valued in our preschool program and is incorporated into the classroom in meaningful ways.
We understand that many of our PreK 3 students are making their first foray into a classroom environment, and will experience key developmental stages of learning as they walk through our doors. We are highly focused on helping to make this adjustment a positive one as they are introduced to new teachers, new friends and classroom structure. We work with our preschoolers each day to learn kindness, respect for others and compassion. We strive to foster a sense of independence and high self-esteem.
Academic concepts covered in PreK 3 include:
- Name & letter recognition and formation
- Auditory & visual discrimination
- Listening comprehension
- Memory recall
- Literature appreciation
- Recognition of colors
- Number recognition, counting and grouping objects
- Shapes, patterns, & sequencing
- Classification and comparison
In PreK 4, students are individually assessed to best serve each child’s needs. Students review, build upon and reinforce the skills and concepts previously learned. Children are guided and encouraged to discover their independence and natural talents, to make positive choices and follow and understand rules as they prepare for Kindergarten. This year, students begin the Superkids®, Happily Ever After reading readiness program. With children’s literature at its heart, Happily Ever After gives children the foundation to begin reading instruction with the Superkids reading program. Spanish is introduced in PreK 4 as students learn basic words and commands in the Spanish language. Learning centers are introduced in PreK 4, to provide students with hands-on activities in math, art, writing and science, connecting with multiple learning styles and making lessons fun and meaningful.
Academic concepts covered in PreK 4 include:
- Literature appreciation
- Story dictation
- Journal writing/drawing
- Graphing
- Measurement
- Position, sequencing, classification, and comparison
Program Information
PreK 3 is offered three (M-W-F) or five days per week for half (7:50 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.) or full days (7:50 a.m. – 2:55 p.m.). PreK 3 classrooms have a teacher and a teacher’s aide.
PreK 4 is offered five days per week for half (7:50 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.) or full days (7:50 a.m. – 2:55 p.m.).
PreK 4 classrooms have a teacher and a teacher’s aide.