Elmhurst Preparatory

"INCREDIBLE SCHOOL. My daughter is in the 2's class at Elmhurst Prep. My children have been through multiple preschools and I have been a very involved parent. I can't say enough good things about Elmhurst Prep. This is NOT a daycare, this is 100% a school which is so wonderful to find for a full-day 2 year program. The founders have a wealth of knowledge regarding early education and the needs & desires of students and parents. Michelle is sometimes in the classroom too and my daughter just adored her from day 1. She has such a huge heart, and a warmth and calm that is palpable by both children and parents. The teachers are incredible too- my daughter's teacher is also so kind, warm and educated. The projects they do, what they learn, and how they learn, is beyond what I hoped for. Few examples- -monthly music composer projects like Chopin -reading books about various cultures -having guest presenters for Diwali -a dance teacher -practicing phonics with Fundations (the program District d205 uses) ...all things to not only help my daughter grow academically, but more importantly, teaching her about other people, other cultures, the world... which I strongly believe will help her become a better and kinder person. Emotional/social learning are by far the MOST important thing for me, and I feel Elmhurst Prep is very very strong in this area. Given the smaller class sizes (ie., 1 teacher with 5-8 children in 1 classroom, rather than 2-3 teachers but 2-3x more children), the children are comfortable with each other and they know each other. The teacher is able to work closely with the children because there is a calm and structure in the classroom. I'm amazed by how quickly my daughter, even being part-time, has made friends in the classroom. The focus of "the child is capable" has been huge for my daughter too. She is learning to be strong and capable of doing so much, and school is helping me be a better parent- encouraging her and supporting her to do things, as opposed to doing everything for her. Other things we love- -organic & clean variety of food -beautiful natural environment and toys -calm classical music and feeling you get in the school -updates/pictures throughout the day -the ability to connect directly with her teacher every day at drop-off/pick-up and through the app -wonderful communication from school to parents -the cleanliness/health-awareness (SO important! my last school my daughter was always sick- complete gamechanger since being at Elm Prep) For full transparency- If you asked me, what's something you don't love? I'd say I wish the outside area was an acre of grass with a big outdoor playground... but it's Elmhurst, and given all of the above, and the fact that most of the school year is not great weather... it's a very small con that I'll deal with :) I don't know any of the staff personally, and have no prior connection to the school, but I am so grateful for the opportunity they're giving my daughter. Clearly, I am a HUGE fan. :) Thank you, Michelle & Renee! *Also! My daughter is SO excited to go to school now. She runs in, says "I'm excited!," doesn't need a paci to sleep, doesn't hold on to her lovey throughout the day, and doesn't get upset with me leaving (all things she would do at former school). THIS is the reason I write this review- so appreciative of the happiness they are providing for my daughter and the comfort and relief they're giving me!"

"Based on our experience with Michelle Pike as my son’s preschool teacher, I feel confident that Elmhurst Preparatory will bring great value to Elmhurst and area families. I believe Michelle’s vested interest in my child, as with each child, was just what he needed to jump-start his love of learning while supporting his social-emotional development. I have no doubt Michelle will continue to facilitate what is needed for the success of each child at Elmhurst Prep."

"Mrs. Pike has worked with two of my children and I am so excited to hear she is opening her own school. Her joy of working with children is infectious. My children loved going to school every day and seeing her smiling face. They learned so much but mostly how to be kind humans. I cannot recommend enough."

"Elmhurst Preparatory will be such a fantastic asset to all Elmhurst families looking for exceptional day care. The co-owner was a beloved teacher for both of my children. She is caring, compassionate and dedicated to her students. My children still talk about how amazing she was as their teacher! The other co-owner is a local Mom who is actively involved in the community. She is so dedicated to making sure Elmhurst Preparatory is the best place for your child."