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About UsChildren of the Sun Youth & Community Services is a private non-profit independent institution for children ages 2-5. We are a center-based, year-round program located on the south side of Chicago. Our emphasis is on African heritage and academics. Our hours of operation is Monday-Friday from 7am-6pm.
There are two childcare programs within Children of the Sun Youth & Community Services. The first program is dedicated to children ages 2 and 3, which is known as Children of the Sun Child Development Center. Our Child Development Program is geared towards social emotional development, which allows the child to develop the ability to interact with their peers in a positive way. At the age of 2, children begin to learn problem solving skills 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 and health. The second program is dedicated to children ages 4 and 5, which is known as Children of the Sun Academic Center. At the Academic Center, children are considered to be in their "school age" years. During this time a child is expected to navigate 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 utilizing The Creative Curriculum goals and objectives as a resource. African heritage is at the forefront of our program, we inner-stand the importance of knowing thy self. We believe 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. 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! |
Program Director |
The Program Director has served children and families for over 20 years. She has worked in the Early Childhood profession as a Master 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, producing life long learners and potential future leaders.
If you would like further information regarding Children of the Sun Youth & Community Services childcare programs contact Hadijat Shittu at (224) 830-9654. Asante Sana! (Thank You!) 
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