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Lake County

Welcome to AAUW Preschool!

Lake County’s Nature-Focused, Play-Based, cooperative preschool for hands-on learning. 

Wonder…Explore…Discover!

Serving families throughout Lake County since 1953, AAUW Preschool is an award-winning Waukegan preschool tucked away in a quiet north-side neighborhood.

* Now enrolling students ages two to five *

We are an affordable, tuition-based preschool & welcome families interested in giving their child a nature-focused, play-based preschool experience!

AAUW Preschool, creates a nurturing, joyful environment where children wonder, explore and discover the joy of learning!  Nestled in a peaceful residential neighborhood, our preschool is dedicated to fostering curiosity and growth in every child through engaging, hands-on experiences and a strong partnership with families.

We offer a variety of programs designed to meet the unique needs of young learners, from toddlers to pre-kindergarten students. With a focus on nature-based learning, personalized attention and a well-established curriculum, we’re proud to provide a space where children can grow academically, socially and emotionally.

Whether you’re here to learn more about our programs, explore our unique LearnScape outdoor classroom, or find out how to get involved, we invite you to explore the resources we’ve created to support you and your child’s preschool journey.

Start exploring and see why AAUW Preschool is the perfect place for your child’s early education. We can’t wait to welcome your family to our community!

Learnscape

Upcoming Events:

Queen of Hearts
Next Queen of Hearts Drawing: Thursday, September 17!
September Restaurant Fundraiser
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Puma profile picture
Puma
November 4, 2025
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This school has been around a long time and it shows. Both of my children have attended this school with great results. This school thrives on family involvement and play based learning. I love that my kids could just be kids. No electronics, just hands on learning.
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Alexander Romero profile picture
Alexander Romero
November 4, 2025
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Best teachers ever. Past and present.
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Maria H profile picture
Maria H
October 31, 2025
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AAUW is such a hidden gem in Waukegan! We love the play based curriculum that allow the kids to learn through play and discovery and the wonderful staff who believe in meeting the children where they are at. Some of our favorite features of the school include the large fenced in outdoor play area, the child sized bathrooms to encourage independence, large classrooms, the fact that it is hidden in a quiet neighborhood and that the kids get the opportunity to play outside everyday!
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Kristen Cade
October 24, 2025
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AAUW Preschool is a wonderful school! You won't find any place else like it in the area. The large, bright classrooms and the huge outdoor learning area are features not found elsewhere. The caring staff brings developmentally appropriate learning - not forcing homework on 2-5 year old kids. And it's not often you find a preschool where generations of families have attended. AAUW Preschool, in my opinion, is simply the best!
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Jessica Elicea
October 23, 2025
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My daughter loves this school. The staff is amazing and as first time parents we appreciate the updates and support. I can’t say enough nice things about everyone at this school. Would 10/10 recommend!
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Veronica Watkins
October 20, 2025
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Our family has had such a wonderful experience with AAUW Preschool over the years. Claire attended when she was 5 (she’s now 12!), and I truly credit that time with giving her a strong foundation in reading and creativity. Killian has spent the last two years there, and it’s been just as special watching him thrive in the same nurturing environment. The teachers host wonderful family events and make great use of the school’s beautiful LearnScape — a large, nature-based play area that encourages exploration, curiosity, and imagination. Their half-day pre-K program is the perfect amount of time for a parent to run errands (or maybe even sneak in a nap!) knowing their child is in a safe, enriching environment and getting a little taste of the school years ahead. I also appreciate AAUW’s commitment to the community, including their partnerships like the one currently developing with The Place for Children with Autism. And as a parent cooperative, it’s clear that family voices truly matter here — you feel like an active part of your child’s education. AAUW Preschool has been such a gift to our family, and I can’t recommend it highly enough.
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Jessica Hoselton
October 16, 2025
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My 3 daughters have all attended this preschool. The two older girls have since “graduated” and my youngest is currently living her best life in their 2-year-old program. I have so many wonderful things to say about this school and what it has meant for our family over the past 7 years, but most of all, it is a place that has helped us find community, make friends, get involved and collaborate for the good of all. I met my core group of “mom friends” there, and my kids still have their besties from preschool. The grounds are incredible and unique, the play-based curriculum allows kids to be kids while exploring the world around them. This preschool is an incredibly special place and you won’t find anything just like it in our area.
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Leslie Nicol
September 27, 2025
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AAUW Preschool has become a home away from home for both my kids. The teachers and staff are wonderful, the education quality is topnotch, and it's truly a one of a kind community!
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Luz Mercado-Cole
May 30, 2025
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My son attended this school for two years & absolutely loved it. I also loved it. The staff is kind & friendly. His teachers were the best ! I would recommend this school to anyone looking for a preschool for their little one.
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Teresa Pajor
April 4, 2025
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This school is a gem! Great staff and my kids enjoy plenty of time outside. Love it here