ZION LUTHERAN ECEC

WELCOME TO OUR EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION CENTER!

REGISTER MY CHILDREN

Our morning preschool programs are grounded in the Reggio Emilia approach to early childhood education and complemented by Music Together®. We offer programs for children ages 2–6, including partial and full-day options. Rooted in Christian education and inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach, our academically forward programs encourage a love of learning through creativity, exploration, and problem-solving—both indoors and outdoors.

 

Our skilled and caring teachers foster an environment where children can grow, interact, and thrive. We consider it a privilege to partner with families in supporting their children’s development. Financial assistance is available for qualified applicants.

 

We invite you to visit our center or contact us with any questions at 630-323-0065 or zionlutheranecec@gmail.com.

 

Elizabeth Reilley, M.Ed 

School Director

 

Building and Strengthening Relationships with Jesus and Each Other & Opening the Door to a Lifetime of Christian Education.

ZION’S REGGIO EMILIA APPROACH

 

 

 

 

Since opening in 2004, Zion’s ECEC has used the Reggio Emilia approach, emphasizing child-led learning and curiosity-driven projects. Children explore topics through observation, experimentation, books, technology, and creative expression—art, music, drama, and construction.

 

Classrooms are designed as a “third teacher,” fostering discovery and collaboration. Outdoor spaces—including art areas, sand and water tables, and play structures—extend learning. Teachers guide, observe, and document children’s growth while encouraging problem-solving, communication, and teamwork.

PROGRAMS & SCHEDULING

 Zion Lutheran Early Childhood Education Center uses the Illinois Early Learning Standards for our developmenty approperiate curriculum and alines with kindergarten readiness for local school district 181. 

MORNING PRESCHOOL

 AGES 2–4

  • Daily structure: Active/quiet play, learning centers, group time, music, snacks, gross motor, stories. Music Together® is a feature of each morning preschool program.
  • Age & schedule options:
    • 2 & 2.5 year-olds: 2–5 days/week, 9:00–11:15
    • 3, and 4-year-olds: varied schedules 8:45–11:15  
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AFTERNOON ENRICHMENT

FOR 2.5–4-YEAR-OLDS, NOON–1:30

  • Creative, theme-based learning daily (e.g., Little Scientist Monday;  Creative Cooking Tuesday; Fly-Away Wednesday; Exploring the Arts Thursday; Spanish Friday; PreK+)
  •  PreK+ focuses on letters, numbers, games, P.E., literature, computers—for 4-year-olds (Select 2-5 day options) 
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FULL DAY PROGRAM

AGES 2.5–4

  • From 8:00 to 4:30, includes all add-ons at a discounted rate  
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JUMP INTO SUMMER & SUMMER CAMP

  • Jump Into Summer: Two weeks bridging preschool and summer camp for children 2½–6; includes games, art, story time, “Jesus time,” outside activities, and enrichment.
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  • Summer Camp: Children ages 2½ to 6 are invited to join us for our Summer Camp. 
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REGISTRATION & FEES

PRIORITY ENROLLMENT

Current students & siblings → Zion members → siblings of alumni → general public starts January 13, 2026, for the 2026–2027 year.

INCLUSION

Potty training not required. 

Zion Lutheran Early Childhood Education Center does not discriminate based on
gender, race, color, nationality, or ethnic origin in the administration of our hiring
practices, admission policies, or any other program activities.

MINISTRY GOALS

To provide a positive Christian education setting.

To provide a high quality academic program.

To provide enrichment experiences.

To help students understand and follow rules that set limits for behavior necessary to the well-being of all children.

To help students develop a Christian lifestyle by emphasizing prayer, kindness, and empathy for others.

To provide a daily exposure to the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

SUMMER ENROLLMENT

Let your child's learning continue through the summer. Summer Camp registration opens in February. 

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OUR CHURCH & COMMUNITY CONNECTION

We support families and individuals at every stage of spiritual and personal development.

 
In addition to our award winning, nationally accredited preschool, Zion invites all Preschool Families to worship with on Sundays at 9:30am.

Each week, children and adults are also welcome to participate in Discipleship classes at 8:30am, prior to the service.

Our worship services are family-friendly and include weekly children's sermons, creating a welcoming environment wherea all ages can grow in faith together.

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GETTING STARTED

Educating children for over 130 years in the Hinsdale community.

Join us and give your child a strong foundation in a high quality, faith based learning evironment.

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