Lincoln Learning Center
Located inside the Lincoln Center
935 Maple Ave.
Downers Grove, IL 60515
Phone: 630.960.7500
Class Schedules & Tuition Registration Information Parent Resources FAQ
Once the historic Lincoln School from 1867 to 1974, the Lincoln Center as it is now known, houses our traditional preschool program, the Lincoln Learning Center Preschool. We offer:
- Seven bright, colorful and well-equipped classrooms
- One designated lead teacher and an assistant teacher per class, as well as floating support staff (learn more about our staff here!)
- Indoor gym & outdoor play areas
- Nut-free classrooms
- Local walking field trips and special guests
- Access to enrichment and extension programs offered by the Park District
Lincoln Learning Center OPEN HOUSE
Date: Saturday, February 8
Time: 9:00-11:00am
Location: Lincoln Center, 935 Maple Ave, Downers Grove
Join us at our annual open house! Meet the teachers and staff of the Lincoln Learning Center Preschool, check out our classrooms, ask questions, and learn all about our play-based program. Children are welcome to accompany their grown-ups; pre-registration is not necessary.
Can't make it to Open House? Schedule a tour: Lincoln Learning Center Tours
Winter Weather/Emergency Cancellations
When the Park District declares that facilities and programs are closed due to weather or loss of power or water, or in
the event that School District 58 declares a snow day/remote learning day, Lincoln Learning Center Preschool will also be closed.
In the event of an emergency closure/cancellation, notification will be sent out via ePACT and Remind, and an announcement will be posted on dgparks.org and the Park District Facebook page.
For two or fewer snow days, classes will not be made up and refunds will not be given. If there are more than 2 snow days in a school year, the year may be extended or appropriate refunds provided.
Enrichment/Extension Programs
A variety of supplemental enrichment programs are offered throughout the course of each school year. These programs include Ready, Set, Kindergarten for 4/5-year-old Preschool students, Preschool Plus afternoon extensions for 3-year-old and 4/5-year-old students, as well as ongoing Math, Science and Reading enrichment classes open to all children ages 4-6.
We also strive to offer a variety of preschool-age dance, art, cooking, music and foreign language classes at the Lincoln Center right after the conclusion of the preschool day. Preschoolers can continue the fun and learning, and our staff will even escort your child from preschool to their next class.
Class information for enrichment and other programs is available in the seasonal Park District program guides.
TWO-YEAR-OLD PRESCHOOL
Weekly themes, creative expression, circle time and large and fine motor skill development help your child get ready for 3-year-old preschool. Class structure is consistent with all preschool classes and independence and socialization are emphasized. Participants receive priority registration for 3-year-old preschool the following school year. Diapers/training pants (Pull-Ups) are allowed for 2-year-old students, but please note that staff cannot change soiled diapers/training pants; a parent/trusted adult must be available if needed. Children must turn 2, but not yet 3 by June 1 to enroll in 2-year-old Preschool.
THREE-YEAR-OLD PRESCHOOL
Perfect for the new early learner, the three-year-old program helps foster socialization and independence while introducing children to the classroom setting. Through teacher-guided activities, children learn to follow simple directions, make new friends and share with others in a group. Activities promote fine motor development through creative arts, cutting and gluing. Children are introduced to shape, number and color recognition through show & tell and themed activities, and large motor skills are enhanced through gym, creative movement activities and outdoor play. Children must turn 3, but not yet 4 by September 1 to enroll in 3-year-old Preschool.
FOUR/FIVE-YEAR-OLD PRESCHOOL
Experienced learners prepare for Kindergarten in programs designed for continued enrichment. Children develop readiness skills through exposure to upper and lower case letters, sound recognition, reading and writing activities, math concepts and color and shape review. Social skills and problem solving are enhanced through unstructured play and teacher-directed group activities. Children explore and learn about the community through local field trips and community visitors. Children must turn 4 or 5 years old, but not yet 6, by September 1 to enroll in 4/5 year-old preschool.
Discovery Early Childhood Series
Maybe our preschool classes don't quite fit your schedule, or your child isn't quite ready for the full preschool experience. Our Discovery Early Childhood Series helps ease little ones into a structured preschool environment. Classes are held in 4-6 week sessions throughout the school year, but always in the same classroom space and with consistent staff, creating a familiar and supportive space for growth! We primarily offer two classes in this series:
First Steps: You & Your Toddler - First Steps is a playgroup designed for children to participate alongside a trusted caregiver. Ease into a classroom setting and routine. Learn more here.
Little Explorers: Toddler Independence Class - If your little one is ready to explore their independence, try this transitional class! Building on the framework laid in First Steps, children will exercise curiosity and playfulness as they develop listening skills, learn to follow directions, and improve gross and fine motor skills. Learn more here.
**Please be aware that these classes do not grant priority enrollment access to preschool classes.
