New Spring Programs for Tots at Deerfield Park District

Deerfield Park District Early Childhood is offering new spring classes for children age 5 and under at Jewett Park Community Center.

Mom and Tot Gym Drop In (Activity #320001-Sect. 01) is geared for children between the ages of 1 and 3.5 years of age (other age children may be brought along).

The program runs Tuesdays, April 9-May 21, from 9:15-11:15 a.m.. Cost is $2 per child/per time, which may be paid on a day-by-day use basis.

This staff-supervised activity offers a chance for parents (or childcare providers) to interact while the children play. The class is offered in Pine Rooms (A & B) with a play kitchen, climbing toys, puzzles and games. Simple crafts and other activities. Parents/childcare provider must be present.

Fun with Amigos (Activity #321628) is a Spanish class for ages 3.5 to 5 years old. Section 0 runs Tuesdays, April 2-May 21, from 12:30-2 p.m.

Section 02 runs Wednesdays, April 3-May 22, from 1:30-2:15 p.m. (designed for children in Deerfield Park District’s 3-year-old preschool program, though everyone is welcome). Section 02 will not cover all the material Section 01 covers.

Program participants will laugh, play, create, sing, paint, cook and discover great wonders all while learning Spanish. "Fun with Amigos" uses highly controlled vocabulary introduced in conjunction with fun theme days. All instructors are experienced early childhood educators and at least one instructor is a native speaker.

Spring Potting and Planting (Activity #321308) is a new program led by long-time early childhood teacher Josett Huffman. This class, for children ages 3.5 to 5, meets on Tuesdays, April 2 – May 21, from 9:30-11:15 a.m.

Young children will be "digging in the dirt" while benefitting from fresh air and exposure to nature. The class will explore how flowers and plants grow. Children will plant and nurture a potted plant to take home at the end of the session. The children will learn about gardens, potting plants and feeding the soil, through stories, games and hands on activities. There will also be time for playing outdoors and observing nature.

On-line registration is available at www.deerfieldparks.org or at Jewett Park Community Center. For more information call (847) 945-0650 or e-mail info@deerfieldparks.org.