Why Choose ECP?

You need to ask yourself, “What type of program do I want my child to attend?”
Do you want your child to…

  • Be prepared for their next steps in education?
  • Be an inspired life long learner?
  • Participate in a program that understands your child socially, emotionally                         and intellectually?
  • The Test of Time – The ECP has been nurturing children in Early Childhood Education since 1955.
  • Nationally Accredited – The ECP was the first preschool in the area to receive accreditation by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).  ECP has been accredited by NAEYC since 1987 and is currently one of two area preschools/daycare facilities currently NAEYC accredited. 
  • ECP Parental Committee - Any parent with a child in the ECP can become a member of the Parental Committee.  This group raises money for our scholarship fund and classroom enhancements.  This group helps to plan family activities throughout the year and acts as a liaison with the teachers and parents.  This committee is an innovative, exciting and energetic group of parents who actively participate in their children’s school experience.
  • ECP Executive Committee – Current and previous parents of the ECP provide oversight of the Parental Committee, budget management and policy development for the ECP. 
  • The ECP Staff – There is a full-time Director who provides support for the staff and the families of the ECP.  Our staff is made up of highly educated teachers who love children and value childhood.  The ECP is proud of the fact that compared to other preschools, there is very little turnover in teaching staff.  All of the teachers at the ECP meet the educational and experience requirements to be titled “teachers.” 
  • ECP, A Mission of Union Church – The ECP operates within the Union Church’s new education wing and fulfills one of the Church’s many missions.  The Union Church community embraces the ECP’s commitment to fostering the development of both child and family. 
  • The ECP Offers a Wide Variety of Programming – The ECP offers programs for children 6-weeks to 5 years of age, making the ECP a place where your child can grow and develop while building meaningful relationships.
  • A Connection to the Illinois State Early Learning Standards – All of our programs are aligned with the State Early Learning Standards.  In 2008, we were able to connect our curriculum to District 181’s kindergarten curriculum to ensure that our programming provides your children with a strong foundation both socially and academically.  Through an assessment system called “Work Sampling”, we ensure that your child is ready for their next academic step. 
  • Play-Based Teaching Philosophy – Our teaching principles stress that children learn best through active participation.  The most important goal of our early childhood curriculum is to help children become enthusiastic learners.  Using both group and individual approaches, we encourage children to progress at their own level by experimenting, exploring, interacting, observing and manipulating materials in their environment.  We are committed to providing children with opportunities and experiences, which will contribute to the growth and development of the whole child.