Preschool fairs help parents choose path to success

Parents receive information about a number of area preschools during last year's Preschool Fair at the Niles Public Library. | Contributed photo

Updated: March 11, 2013 2:20AM

Parents may feel overwhelmed when choosing the right preschool, but local preschool fairs can help make the process a little less stressful.

More than 20 local preschools and day care centers participated in the annual Preschool and Day care Fair at the Niles Public Library on Jan. 9. The Park Ridge Public Library will host its own annual fair on Jan. 26.

A one-stop shop, the annual fairs are a convenient way for parents and guardians to learn more about the preschool and day care options that are available to them in the area.

“It is such a great opportunity for parents — even if they’re not immediately thinking of day care or preschool,” said Clara Sheffer, the preschool liaison at the Niles Public Library. Sheffer said she always encourages more parents to come every year.

Representatives from different schools, including teachers and principals, speak to parents about their schools and hand out informational brochures.

A social worker from Niles Family Services attends the fair to talk to parents about various issues, from finding a preschool or day care that is a welcoming place with a caring environment, to choosing a location that is close to home or work.

Local preschools and day care centers such as St. John Brebeuf, St. Matthews Preschool, Niles Park District Bright Beginnings, Safari Childcare and Kiddie Kollege at the Leaning Tower YMCA were expected to participate in this year’s annual Niles Library fair.

Local school districts, such as Park-Ridge Niles District 64, also attended the fair.

“That’s a major convenience,” said Sheffer about having so many organizations available to answer questions at the same time. She added that the fair is a great opportunity for parents to get to know the teachers and principals on a more personal level prior to fall registration.

“Everyone who comes is always enthusiastic about it,” said Sheffer.

Those who were not able to attend the fair can also get information about local preschools and day care centers by viewing a special guide the library produces.

The Park Ridge Public Library will be hosting its annual preschool and enrichment fair on Jan. 26 from 10 a.m. to noon. Each year the library partners with Park Ridge Community Women to put on the event.

The fair features local preschools and day care centers, but also places for children to take classes, such as in art and music.

This year will include 26 schools and day care centers and 21 enrichment organizations.

“It’s a really good opportunity for people to get to know what’s available in the area for them,” said Kelly Durov, youth services manager at the Park Ridge Public Library.

The fair has been taking place for more than 15 years and attracts about 200 people.

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