I give RAVE reviews to Creative Beginnings Preschool, which is just around the block from the Pat Shepherd center. Their website is www.cbpreschool.com Give them a call to schedule a visit and observe them in action. I think they just opened enrollment for next fall. Currently my third child is attending there. My older children were incredibly well prepared for kindergarten and had a wonderful experience. The curriculum is thought through so very well, and all of the crafts, snacks, and toys out for play are integrated into their themes. They have fun field trips and visitors who come in to help the children learn more about their themes (such as a veterinarion who visits during the animal unit, a trip to the orthodontist during the dental unit, etc.). You will have the same teachers both years, so continuity is guaranteed. These are very experienced teachers who are committed to and absolutely love the children. Once when my daughter was very ill, they actually made us meals, called every day to check up on us, brought over presents, etc. They truly go above and beyond in my opinion. I will say up front that they are definitely more expensive than the park district. I have found the additional investment to be very worthwhile.