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- Overview
- Programs
- Our Team
- Reviews
About Lily Pad Montessori School in Chicago, IL
At Lily Pad Nursery & Preschool we are Montessori-inspired and developmentally-focused. Surrounding children with a variety of enrichment, stimulating the senses, and supporting a passion for discovery. Our Lily Pad Leap™ Curriculum mindfully infuses structured lessons into a child-led, Montessori-inspired environment. Children flourish in an environment that is language-rich, dynamic but accessible, warm and loving. Teachers encourage children to challenge their skill set each day as they transition from novice to master again and again.
Our Programs
Little Duckies (ages 6 weeks – 15 months): We promote fine motor, gross motor, auditory discrimination, self-expression, and practical life skills through Montessori lessons and materials within our Little Duckies prepared environment – which we refer to as “the pond.”
Tadpoles (ages 15 months – 23 months): At this age, your child will be introduced to the order and function of a classroom. Our Montessori lessons include the importance of caring for yourself and caring for the environment. We also guide Tadpoles in their understanding of cleaning up their work centers throughout the day.
Dragonflies (2 year old program): Daily lessons are designed by LilyPad’s primary program lead, a Montessori certified teacher, to prepare toddlers for entry into our Bullfrogs Pre-K program.
Bullfrogs (ages 3 years – 5 years): Our Bullfrogs classroom has a low child-to-teacher ratio of 1:10. Each child in our program has a personalized Independent Work Plan (IWP) – something unique to Lily Pad. We foster Montessori’s “uninterrupted work period,” in which children in our Bullfrogs program have nearly 2 hours of time to select, focus on, and complete activities on their own.
Contact Us Today!
Come visit Lily Pad Montessori School and discover how we nurture creativity, independence, and a love for learning in young children. Our Montessori approach fosters a supportive and engaging environment where every child can thrive. Stop by for a tour or give us a call to learn more about our programs and enrollment options. We look forward to welcoming you!
Programs Offered
Our Team
Alejandra Barajas
School Director
I have been here for 7 years and became the Director in 2020. I have had the opportunity to work with every age group and have grown very fond of the infant classroom. My favorite thing about working at Lily Pad is being able to create bonds with all the families. As well as being able to see every child’s journey and milestones throughout Lily Pad, and seeing them graduate. I am always up for trying new restaurants, as I am a big foodie! I love to travel any chance I get.
Kaitlan Lopez
Assistant Director
I’m a proud mom of two, fueled daily by a good iced coffee! I’m a big believer in the magic of childhood and the power of early learning. Whether we’re singing songs, exploring letters, or learning through play, I’m all about making learning fun, meaningful, and full of heart. I love the amazing sense of community at Lily Pad and the joy of watching each child blossom in their quirky way! When I’m not in the classroom, you can find me chasing giggles with my kiddos!
Joanna Zaragoza
Admin Assistant
I have been at Lily Pad for about 4 years now, and I value the connections that I can build with my students and their families. I believe this is an important factor because I can create a safe, trusting learning environment for my students. I love the color pink and my favorite flower is a daisy. I enjoy going to Disney when I get the chance.
Reviews from Parents
Lily Pad Montessori School
Chicago, IL
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