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About UsChildren of the Sun Academic Center is a private independent institution for children ages 2-5. We are a home-based, year-round program located on the south side of Chicago with emphasis on African heritage and academics. Our hours of operation is Monday-Friday from 7am-6pm.
There are two tiers to our early learning program. The first tier is for children ages 2 and 3, which is known as our Child Development Program. Our Child Development Program is geared towards social emotional development, which allows for children to develop the ability to interact with their peers in a positive way. At the age of 2, children begin to learn problem solving techniques that are inspired by the Center on the Social and Emotional Foundations for Early Learning (CSEFEL), as well as, the ability to become more independent and self-sufficient within the classroom environment. Basic academics from a "preschool" perspective are stressed during this time with particular attention on the child's development as it relates to each developmental domain (i.e cognitive, language). The second tier is for children ages 3-5, which is known as our Academic Center. At Children of the Sun Academic Center, ages 3-5 are known as the "school age" years. During this time a child is considered able to function in a classroom setting with minimal redirection. The academic curriculum consists of yoga, African dance, Kiswahili, handwriting, extended art projects, phonics, phonemic awareness, reading fluency, math (logical & critical thinking), anatomy, chemistry, African principes and geography. The environment and the curriculum is child appropriate. African heritage is at the forefront of our program because we inner-stand the importance of knowing thy self. African heritage instills a sense of pride and identity within the child, which promotes high levels of self-esteem, self love and respect for themselves and those around them. This unique and necessary cultural experience is missing from most traditional child care facilities within the African communities here in America. With this added component a student will reach their highest potential in any area of study no matter the age. African heritage teaches principles that are lost in today's society (i.e. respect for elders, parents and others, African culture, African tradition, sisterhood, brotherhood, family values, collaboration, community etc.) Throughout the year we study African history and culture in a child appropriate way, schedule a tour today to visit our Talking Walls! |
The Director
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The director of Children of the Sun Academic Center has served children and families for over 15 years. She has worked in the Early Childhood profession as a Lead Teacher, Director, Family Support Specialist and Special Needs Coordinator in both the private and public sector. She received her Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Eastern Illinois University and her Master's in Early Childhood Education and Administration from National-Louis University. Her mission is to provide quality education to African children in America, giving them the ability to have a head start which will produce life long learners and future leaders.
If you would like further information regarding Children of the Sun Academic Center or Child Development Program contact Hadijat Shittu at (773) 372-5412. Asante Sana! (Thank You!) |
