EDGEWATER EARLY
LEARNING CENTER

“Edgewater provides me comfort in knowing that my child is learning and having fun while I am away at work!” – Parent

The Edgewater Early Learning Center, located in the North Shore Baptist Church, was acquired from the YWCA in 2006 and has been serving families in Chicago’s Edgewater/ Andersonville neighborhood with the highest quality early education and care for more than 30 years.

Our center is accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and provides individualized care for children; including children with special needs; in an environment designed to foster growth and development.

Individualized Learning
The teachers at the center use the Creative Curriculum to design a learning environment that includes designated areas for activities. These activities include: building blocks, art, library sessions, sand and water areas, music and movement, cooking, and computers. Through active involvement with the environment, children learn to understand the world around them, make independent decisions, and partake in activities that help develop school-readiness skills.

Edgewater’s after-school curriculum follows the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) philosophy of enhancing learning by helping children engage in problem-solving, discovery and exploratory learning through hands-on activities. Qualified teachers are available to assist children with their homework during designated work sessions. Full days of care are available on school holidays as well.

Healthy Lifestyles
Edgewater Early Learning Center also incorporates the Healthy Lifestyles curriculum, emphasizing healthy eating habits, exercise, and environmental protection. To reinforce the values promoted by our Healthy Lifestyles curriculum, the center offers a menu of nutritious, catered meals and snacks. Children participate in daily outdoor activities, including nature walks and excursions to local parks. A gym is available onsite for indoor physical activities, exercise, and group games.

Parent & Family Engagement
Families are a vital part of Edgewater Early Learning Center and we encourage parent involvement in the classroom and during center activities. Our open-door policy welcomes parents to share their time and talents with us. The center offers home visits and two parent-teacher conferences where families can help set goals for their child. Monthly parent committee meetings, workshops on topics such as managing stress or picky eaters and family-friendly activities are also are part of our program. For more information on upcoming event at Edgewater Early Learning Center check out our What’s Going On At Edgewater?” calendar below.

Community Partners
Edgewater Early Learning Center partners with the Ounce of Prevention Fund to provide Head Start services for 3 to 5-year-olds. The Head Start model provides a nurturing environment that supports the healthy growth and development of each child in the context of the child’s family, culture and community. The center also partners with Chicago Public Schools to provide State Preschool for All and Prevention Initiative Programs that provide a seamless transition for children from preschool into the public school system.

We Accept Child Care Subsidies!
Through the CCAP program, we work with families to provide premier child care services at a reduced rate depending on income and additional criteria. For additional information visit our page on the Child Care Assistance Program. To find out if your family meets the criteria for a child care subsidy, contact our center director.

View our COVID-19 Health & Safety Procedures

What The Parents Are Saying

“I observe each and everything in the classroom while I’m here to drop off or pick up my daughter. I find everything perfect- the teachers are friendly and helpful, the classroom is cleaned, kids are happy and this makes me happy! Thank you.”

“In my opinion, the service is excellent. The teachers are wholly good people, respectful and above all they have the skills to educate our children. Thank you for everything.”

“Edgewater provides me comfort in knowing that my child is learning and having fun while I am away at work!”

“Thanks for letting me be a part of this great family!”

Community Partners

Edgewater Early Learning Center partners with the Dept of Family Support Services/Chicago Early Learning to provide Preschool for All Programs. Certified Teachers provide educational experiences that build kindergarten readiness for 3 – 5 year olds.