Empowering children to be leaders, innovators, thinkers, creators, philosophers & poets!
Logan Square
Lincoln Square
Portage Park
explore
Stepping Stones Nursery School has three early childhood centers in Chicago with an emphasis on play-based preschool and high quality infant care. Located in Logan Square, Lincoln Square and Portage Park.
discover
We believe in giving children space to learn independently and connecting children with the magic of nature — even our littlest ones! We have taken the philosophy of an outdoor preschool and created early childhood education programs that are accessible to all.
grow
Our teachers are dedicated early childhood educators that develop authentic relationships with each child and meaningfully guide your child’s development. They are experts at crafting curriculum that is developmentally appropriate and that places your child at the center of their learning.
the latest from our blog
Lights and Levels: Illuminating and Elevating our Offerings to Young Children
Towards the end of winter in the midwest, everyone could use a little bit of inspiration. This year I was fortunate enough to visit one of my favorite sources of play-based inspiration, Boulder Journey School. Touring the classrooms at Boulder Journey, I noticed all...
Happy New Year!
As an educator, I love opportunities for reflection. What I love about New Year’s reflection, is not the pressure of total reinvention of self, but rather the idea that there are tiny shifts I can be making mid school year to lean into the educator, parent, and school...
Exploring the holiday season with a sense of WONDER
The holiday season is upon us, and it is often a time of joy and wonder in early childhood. Gathering with family and friends, engaging in traditions and rituals, the practice of gift-giving and gratitude, cooking and feasts, and the magical transformation of our...
Pumpkin Play
Many play-based approaches, most prominently the Reggio Emilia inspired approach, honor the environment as a major player in children’s early learning and development. Often referred to as the child’s “third teacher” (after their parents and classroom educators),...
Curating environments for early childhood
Many play-based approaches, most prominently the Reggio Emilia inspired approach, honor the environment as a major player in children’s early learning and development. Often referred to as the child’s “third teacher” (after their parents and classroom educators),...
The benefits of outdoor play on childhood stress
Childhood stress and trauma is a big topic of reflection for caregivers and parents alike as we live through waves of pandemic life, and adjust to the changes and challenges it brings. Being a part of a nature-based nursery school is a source of pride for me because I...