Oak-Leyden’s Children’s Services will begin using its new learning and play area for group programming on Wednesday, August 9.  The renovated space, located at 411 Chicago Avenue in Oak Park, offers equipment and activities accessible for all children, including those who experience disabilities and delays.   In this room, children are able to learn through positive hands-on interactions with caring therapists who help them grow cognitively and socially.

Activities for children from birth to five that will be held in the space include Music Together®  and public drop-in days.  Music Together® is a research-based education program that leads to the development of musical competence in young children while focusing on parent-child interactions.  Drop-in days allow children of all abilities to come together to build social skills in a comfortable environment with kid-friendly activities, including holiday celebrations, craft projects, library visits, and guest readers.

“We’re excited to introduce our newly remodeled learning and play space to families in the community,” says Rachel Wood, Oak-Leyden’s Director of Children’s Services.  “This space will provide a variety of opportunities for children to engage in different activities that will help them develop and grow.”

The renovation project was funded in part thanks to a generous grant from the Special Kids Foundation, a private independent foundation that supports organizations serving children, found or at risk to be found, with developmental disabilities.  On Wednesday, August 16, children will decorate squares for a quilt to be presented in honor of the Special Kids Foundation’s contribution.  This event, open to families in the public, will be held at 411 Chicago Avenue from 9:15am to 10:30am.

The total cost of updating the learning and play area has not been fully addressed.  Donations to this worthy project can be made at www.youcaring.com/oakleydenkids.