Little People Playtime

Overview

Little People Playtime operates as the Park District’s preschool and pre-kindergarten program. The program year runs from mid-August through May and includes both part-day preschool classes and full-day daycare options for three- and four-year-old children.

Programs and curriculum

Starfish & Jellyfish classes — Designed for children ages 3 through early 4; class sessions are three hours and are offered two or three days per week. Activities focus on play-based, hands-on introduction to letters, numbers, colors, sensory and art experiences, and social development; children must be fully potty trained by October.
Otters — Full-day option for children ages 3 through early 4 combining full-day care with developmentally appropriate early learning activities; potty training is required by October 1.
Owls class (Pre-K) — Full-day Pre-K for children who are four on or before September 1 with a weekly letter focus, early printing practice, show-and-tell, songs and listening activities, and integrated preschool instruction throughout the day to prepare for kindergarten.
Tiger Class (Pre-K) — Pre-K program for four-year-olds focused on alphabet and early literacy, hands-on learning and self-care skills; scheduled Monday–Friday | 8:15 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. (new extended day options from 12:15 p.m.–3:00 p.m. noted for 2026).
Eagles + STEAM Class (Pre-K) — Full Pre-K program for four-year-olds that integrates traditional Pre-K learning with STEAM-based activities; scheduled Monday–Thursday, three hours per session.

Registration requirements

Non-refundable registration fee
Birth certificate
Current physical on approved DCFS form
Completed registration form with signed waiver
Emergency contact form completed
Documented food allergy information if applicable

Boring Links

Interesting Links

About

Overview

Programs and curriculum

Registration requirements

Programs

Starfish & Jellyfish classes

The Otters

Owls class

Tiger Class – Pre-Kindergarten (class currently full- waitlist only)

Eagles + STEAM Class – Pre-Kindergarten