Stepping Stones Nursery School

Overview

Stepping Stones Nursery School is a Reggio-inspired early childhood program in Chicago that serves children from infancy through pre-kindergarten. Classrooms are described as warm and home-like, with an emphasis on sensory materials and opportunities for outdoor exploration in nearby green spaces.

Approach and curriculum

The program follows Reggio-inspired, child-led principles that blend teacher-guided lessons with emergent, project-based learning. Classrooms use natural materials (clay, paint, loose parts) and regular walks to local parks to support sensory, social-emotional and cognitive development. Teachers observe children’s interests and build activities to extend those interests into longer-term projects.

Programs

Ducklings – Infant Program (6 weeks to 10 months): Infant classrooms focus on predictable routines, sensory experiences and individualised attention to support early attachment and exploration.
Goslings – Waddler Toddler Program (10-18 months): Waddler classrooms provide space for emerging mobility and sensory activities that introduce gross-motor skills and early creative exploration.
Tadpoles – Younger Toddler Program (15-24 months): Toddlers are encouraged to develop independence, language and motor skills through guided play, music and sensory experiences.
Dragonflies – Preschool (2+ years): Preschool-aged children engage in activities that promote language development, self-help skills and imaginative play, with a mix of group and individual learning.
Bullfrogs – Pre-Kindergarten (3–5 years): Pre-K classrooms focus on critical thinking, collaboration and kindergarten readiness through storytelling, project work and outdoor investigation.

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Stepping Stones Nursery School

About

Overview

Approach and curriculum

Programs

Programs

Ducklings – Infant Program (6 weeks to 10 months)

Goslings – Waddler Toddler Program (10-18 months)

Tadpoles – Younger Toddler Program (15-24 months)

Dragonflies– Preschool (2+ years)

Bullfrogs – Pre-Kindergarten (3–5 years)

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