for parents

At Irving Park Early Learning Center, we believe in the power of partnership. While you are your child’s first and most important teacher, we’re here to support and enhance your child’s growth and development. Together, we create a nurturing environment where your little one can thrive.

To build our extraordinary partnership, we focus on

  • We celebrate each child’s unique personality and abilities. Our staff embraces diverse cultures, backgrounds, and family dynamics. We listen attentively to understand your goals and concerns for your child.

  • Your child’s success is built on clear, consistent communication. We connect with you daily through the Procare app, face-to-face conversations, phone calls, and emails. Before your child’s first day, we provide a comprehensive orientation packet and host a welcoming parent orientation. You’ll also find regular updates via our parent information board with updates on center and community events.

  • Stay connected to your child’s day with our app. Receive real-time updates, daily reports, photos, and videos, giving you a window into your child's world at IPELC. You are also welcome to message your child’s teacher as needed.

  • We welcome parents and approved family members to visit IPELC anytime. Your presence enriches our community and your child’s experience.

Parent Activities

Building a solid partnership with our parents is a top priority at IPELC. We organize monthly parent events to foster a sense of community within our center. These gatherings provide a relaxed space for parents to engage with their children’s teachers beyond the usual rushed drop-offs and pick-ups, creating meaningful connections in a more informal setting.

These family activities and appreciation events include:

  • We’ve been part of this fantastic community for over two decades. We kick off each school year with a big “thank you” celebration, inviting families and neighbors to join us for food, crafts, games, and music. It’s our way of honoring the connections that make IPELC special.

  • We cherish the special bond between mother and child. Moms join us in the classroom to share a typical learning day, creating precious keepsakes together. It’s a beautiful opportunity to observe your child's growth and development in their school environment.

  • Dads, we love seeing you in our classrooms! Join us for a special day of bonding and play. Your presence makes a lasting impact, boosting your child’s self-esteem and sense of support as you participate in daily routines together.

  • “Today a reader, tomorrow a leader!” Our family reading night brings stories to life with interactive activities. Together, we nurture a love for books and lay the foundation for your child’s lifelong learning adventure.

  • Boo! Our annual pumpkin party brings spooky fun to life in a safe, child-friendly setting. Little ones and teachers dress up in playful costumes, enjoying Halloween movies and delightfully “spookalicious” treats.

  • Pedal power meets purpose! Our annual Trike-A-Thon for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital teaches valuable safety skills while showing children how they can make a difference. It’s a fun way to build confidence and compassion.

  • Step into the world of IPELC! Prospective parents can explore our vibrant classrooms, meet our passionate educators, and see our learning-through-play philosophy in action. It’s a chance to experience your child’s journey first-hand in our nurturing, stimulating environment.

  • Little caps and gowns take center stage! Graduation day fills us with pride as we celebrate your child's growth and achievements. It’s a joyful milestone, marking the end of one chapter and the exciting beginning of the next. We know your IPELC graduate is ready to shine!

  • Get your cameras ready! Our fun-filled production showcases your child's budding talents. As students memorize lines and take the stage, they build social skills and self-confidence. You might discover a little star in the making!