West Austin Development Center

West Austin Development Center (a non-for-profit organization) is a twenty six thousand square feet, three story, state-of the-art preschool university. Throughout the twelve spacious classrooms in the facility, children ranging in age from six weeks to twelve years old, can be viewed interacting in a learning, laughing, loving environment. Each classroom suite is equipped with private restrooms for the children. This educational jewel, located on Chicago's west side, has serviced children and families for two years. Parents and students alike marvel at the array of educational activities incorporated into the curriculum. Included in the curriculum are Chinese, Japanese, Spanish, computer classes, etiquette classes and Pre-Fit (preschool gym). In addition to the seven interest areas contained in each classroom suite, a computer lab, library, cafeteria/indoor playground, stainless steel commercial kitchen, and soft top outdoor playground, a cyber cafe for parents, all add to the ambiance of the facility. Our dedicated, experienced and caring staff are committed to building a solid foundation upon which children can stand firmly as they grow into life-long learners. It is therefore, our mission to make the preschool experience at West Austin a remarkable one. Students steer their way through the learning process with both self selected activities and direct teaching tools that are assisted by instructors. Preschoolers are well prepared for the academic and social challenges they are faced with as they transition from preschool to grammar school once they leave West Austin. Monthly field trips along with varied monthly academic and cultural themes, broaden our student's learning horizons. In a ten month period, students are exposed to ten different cultures and the differences which make that culture unique. Our dietician prepares delicious home style meals that are both nutritionally enriched and lovingly prepared. Students practice family style eating while instructors impart table etiquette and nutritional education during meal time. West Austin Development is distinctively committed to ensuring that the programs and activity planning are on the cutting edge of early childhood development. Enhanced programs include Preschool for All-a Chicago Public School Initiative inside the center and Head Start. Collectively, these programs blend together a unique hybrid of educational values to increase learning outcomes and detect any early signs of genius. After all, College Begins Here!