Archdiocese of Chicago
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Office of Catholic Schools

Early Childhood Catholic Education

Frequently Asked Questions About Early Childhood Programs

Q: What is the difference between the early childhood programs?

A: All preschool and kindergarten programs provide a quality early childhood experience. The differences will be in the program schedule (full day, half day, etc.).

Q: How do I know which program is best for my child?

A: The best way to determine which program is right for you and your child is to contact the school and schedule a visit. For more information about an early childhood program near you, please use our school locator.

Q: Do you have any half-day or full-day programs?

A: Yes, schools can offer either or both depending on the needs of their families and the community. For more information about an early childhood program near you, please use our school locator.

Q: Must my child attend the school in my neighborhood?

A: No, our schools do not have boundaries.

Q: Does my child have to be toilet trained?

A: Yes, children must be toilet trained prior to school entry.

Q: How old does my child have to be in order to enroll in school?

A: Children must be three or four years old on or before September 1st of the current school year.

Q: What documents are needed to enroll my child in an early childhood program?

A: Birth certificate, complete physical with an up-to-date immunization record, as well as vision and dental screening

Q: How much is the tuition for a Preschool or Kindergarten program?

A: Tuition and fees are determined at the local level by each school. For more information about an early childhood program near you, please use our school locator.

Q: What should I look for in a quality early childhood classroom?

A: There are eight main things to look for in a quality early childhood classroom.

  1. Frequent, positive warm interactions among adults and children
  2. Planned learning activities appropriate to children's age and development, such as block building, painting, reading stories, dress-up and active outdoor play
  3. Specially trained teachers
  4. Enough adults to respond to individual children
  5. Many varied age-appropriate materials
  6. A healthy and safe environment for children
  7. Nutritious meals and/or snacks
  8. Regular communication with parents who are welcome visitors at all times

For ongoing, systematic evaluation visit

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