Why is Black History Month important for young children?


Celebrating Black History Month helps children build empathy, appreciate diversity, and understand the world around them. Research suggests that children as young as six months notice physical differences like skin color, making early childhood the perfect time to introduce positive representations of all races.

Building a foundation of inclusion
Teaching children to notice and celebrate differences is a vital part of social-emotional learning. By incorporating an anti-bias curriculum, educators can create a classroom environment where every child feels seen and valued. This involves:

Representing diversity: Using dolls, books, and materials that feature diverse characters.
Inviting conversation: Encouraging questions about differences rather than avoiding them.
Celebrating culture: Exploring music, art, and stories from various backgrounds year-round.

from Brightwheel .....

about 7 hours ago, Felice Hybert
black history handprints
Good morning Algonquin Families,
Here are links to connect with your student’s teacher for class:

Ms. Lendi AM Class

To join the video meeting, click this link: https://meet.google.com/tvt-nvft-zpz
Otherwise, to join by phone, dial +1 440-490-7290 and enter this PIN: 661 358 985#

Ms. Scott AM Class

https://meet.google.com/fom-kswh-rez

Ms. Cristelli

https://meet.google.com/fej-owzi-xuw

Mrs. Pierce

https://meet.google.com/erk-iczt-eup

Mrs. Rowland

https://meet.google.com/scf-jsae-xki

Mrs. Mazzorana

https://meet.google.com/mwk-dtii-nnh

Ms. Keepers

https://meet.google.com/veo-jctv-pro

If you are not able to click the link, please copy and paste.
Stay warm and safe.
5 days ago, Carenda Lacy
Hey Algonquin Families,
We are preparing for the annual Black History Celebration on February 20, 2026, and we warmly invite families to participate by sharing their unique talents. This event provides an opportunity to honor and recognize the rich cultural contributions of African - Americans. We welcome diverse performances that showcase family skills or traditions, such as musical performances, dance, storytelling, or other artistic expressions. 🎭🎶 click the link to sign up !!https://forms.gle/YSL6gCcBYrsrUDM46
8 days ago, Felice Hybert
black history  month
Today at Algonquin Pre-K, while visiting classrooms, I observed students self-selecting activities, building 60+ minutes of play stamina, and using their voices to share "fun facts." These foundational skills are setting them up for a lifetime of success. So proud of our students and staff! 🌟 #FutureLeaders #AlgonquinLearns
15 days ago, Felice Hybert
centers
We’re excited to invite you to our upcoming Black History program, “Showtime at Algonquin: Celebrating Black History,” on February 20, 2026! Please save the date and come celebrate with us!

Join us for two exciting shows at 9:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.

We’re also thrilled to welcome back the Algonquin Family Choir this year! If you’re interested in volunteering to sing with us, please contact Mrs. Lacy at 708-668-9202 or email clacy@sd163.com
20 days ago, Carenda Lacy
Save The Date  02. 20. 26
Looking for Volunteers. Join Algonquin Family Choir
When we think about our children’s health, we often focus on physical milestones like growth and nutrition, but mental health is just as important. In young children, mental health is deeply connected to their social and emotional development—it’s about how they feel, how they cope, and how they relate to the world.


Check out these key takeaways from the Illinois Early Learning Project tip sheet to help your little ones thrive!
21 days ago, Felice Hybert
tip sheet for mental health
Picture Retake Day January 9th.
If your student was absent on picture day or you were not satisfied with your previous picture order.
about 1 month ago, Carenda Lacy
Picture Retake Day
Santa has left the building !! We are so grateful to Toys for Toys, the Girl Scout troop, and Judgement Farm for collecting toys!! Winter break packets are also included to keep learning happening !!

I will post a link to the story as well!

One more day tomorrow- 1/2 day 10:45 dismissal !!!

We wish you and your family a safe and enjoyable break and look forward to welcoming students back on Monday, January 5, 2026.
about 1 month ago, Felice Hybert
felice and Santa
sanata toys
teacher
Shopping with a Kappa !! A huge thank you to Gwen, Mariah, Britney, Tinish, and the Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity for shopping with Santa for 18 of our Algonquin Families!! Also, thanks to Cori for making a house call to drop off a gift card!!
about 2 months ago, Felice Hybert
shopping with a Kappa
SHOUTOUT to our AMAZING staff who spend so much time INTENTIONALLY preparing and planning learning activities for our littles to get them academically and emotionally ready for the world!!

Our staff consistently implements effective learning strategies across various centers. Teachers are incorporating rhyming activities through songs, poems, and stories to develop phonological awareness.


Mathematics concepts are being reinforced through number and counting exercises integrated into center activities.

Documentation practices are strong, with staff recording student language during drawing activities to support vocabulary development.

Classrooms and Hallways feature three-dimensional projects using diverse open-ended materials that encourage creativity and fine motor development.

Pre-reading instruction continues during center time, with teachers providing individual and small group literacy support.
Staff demonstrate skill in helping students navigate emotional regulation and provide appropriate guidance during challenging moments.

Geometric and color recognition activities are naturally embedded in play-based learning experiences, allowing students to explore these concepts in meaningful contexts.

These observations reflect the dedicated work our team puts into creating rich learning environments that meet each child's developmental needs and make ALGONQUIN PREK CENTER AMAZING!!
about 2 months ago, Felice Hybert
writing
math buttons
playing and counting
clothing pictures with words
christmas list written by child
writing
Hello Algonquin Families,
We hope you have a wonderful thanksgiving break! Please click the link for information regarding an upcoming event.
https://aptg.co/T4dKsd
2 months ago, Carenda Lacy
Save The Date

📢 Attention Algonquin Pre-K Families! 📢

Get ready for our upcoming Family Conferences! To help you prepare and get the most out of this important meeting, I have a special message for you.

Watch this video to learn: ✨ What to expect during your conference. ✨ How your input on your child's goals is crucial. ✨ A quick overview of understanding TSG GOLD "in the band" development.

This is a fantastic opportunity to partner with us in your child's learning journey!

🔗 https://share.vidyard.com/watch/EDz8EMRgrj9MEyy1AVQKN7

#AlgonquinPreK #FamilyConferences #EarlyLearning #ParentPartnership #PreschoolLife

2 months ago, Felice Hybert
family conferences
Guess who visited our amazing teachers today? 🐾 Bella the Therapy Dog brought smiles and cuddles right before our workshop! Nothing like some puppy love to refill those teacher cups after pouring so much into our littles every day. Teachers deserve all the tail wags and doggy kisses! 🐶❤️ Even our educators need a moment to pause and paws! #TeacherAppreciation #TherapyDogMagic
2 months ago, Felice Hybert
teachers with therapy dog

Hey Amazing Algonquin Families!
Tomorrow is an early dismissal at 10:45 AM

Next week, Nov 24–28, there's no school for our little learners.

We can't wait to see you for family conferences on Nov 24 and 25—a wonderful chance to celebrate your child's growth together!

Our goal is 100% participation!!!

Wishing you joy and gratitude this season! 🍂🦃

2 months ago, Felice Hybert
looking ahead sign
🤩 Say "Cheese!" Algonquin Pre-K! 🤩

Picture Day is TOMORROW, November 13th!

Please send your Pre-K little ready to smile for the camera! This is a great chance to capture their growth this year.

Looking forward to seeing all our beautiful littles!

#AlgonquinPreKSchool #PictureDayFun
3 months ago, Felice Hybert
Gemini_Generated_Image_6dhl8b6dhl8b6dhl
We're taking a moment to thank all the brave men and women who have served our country. Whether you're a veteran yourself or have family members who have served, we salute you and your sacrifice! 🎖️

Enjoy the long weekend with your little ones! See everyone back on Tuesday. 😊
3 months ago, Felice Hybert
veterans

🍂 November News is Here! 🍁 Hey Algonquin Pre-K Families! 📚✨ We've got exciting updates to share — from classroom highlights to upcoming events and seasonal fun! 🎨🦃 📌 Be sure to read all about what's happening this month at school. Stay connected, stay informed, and celebrate learning with us! 💛 👉 https://secure.smore.com/n/46tsw #AlgonquinPreK #NovemberUpdates #FamilyConnection #EarlyLearning #PreKPower

3 months ago, Felice Hybert
Get ready for Character Day tomorrow! 🎭 Our little ones will be showing off their non-scary costumes during our all-school parades at 9:30 AM and 1:30 PM. 🕒 Come join the fun and you might even catch some teachers in costume too! 👩‍🏫👨‍🏫 We're counting down the hours for this magical day of imagination and smiles! 😊 Can't wait to see everyone there! ✨
3 months ago, Felice Hybert
oct 31
🎉 Exciting News for Algonquin Families! 🎉
We’re proud to announce that Algonquin continues to earn the GOLD Circle of Quality from ExceleRate Illinois for the 2025–2026 school year! 🏅

This is the 8th year in a row!!

This prestigious recognition reflects our commitment to excellence in early childhood education — ensuring high standards in learning environments, instructional quality, and program administration.
💛 Thank you to our dedicated crew and supportive families for helping us reach this milestone!

📽️ Learn more about what this means for your child’s learning journey: https://youtu.be/I3nu68ZcUls?si=sWy5vXJNxdQq4Y8S


#AlgonquinPride #ExceleRateIllinois #GoldCircleOfQuality #EarlyLearningExcellence
3 months ago, Felice Hybert
ExceleRate GOLD
Algonquin Families, A reminder that tomorrow's dismissal will be at 10:45 AM. There will be no PM classes . Have a wonderful evening!
3 months ago, Felice Hybert