The Best Daycare Centers in Ashland, IL
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Ashland. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Ashland
Ashland United Methodist Church Preschool
Ashland United Methodist Church
A well-established church-based preschool offering comprehensive early childhood education with a play-based learning approach. The program focuses on social, emotional, and academic development through structured activities and creative play. Features small class sizes with experienced educators, Christian values integration, and a nurturing environment. Parents consistently praise the dedicated teaching staff, safe facility, and strong community atmosphere. The curriculum includes literacy development, basic math concepts, art, music, and physical activities tailored to young learners' developmental needs.
Daycare Services:
The Goddard School of Jacksonville
Goddard Systems, Inc.
A highly-regarded franchise childcare center serving the Ashland area with comprehensive educational programs from infancy through pre-K. Features the proprietary F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic preparation with social development. The facility includes secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. Staff includes degreed teachers with ongoing professional development. Parents appreciate the structured curriculum, daily communication through the proprietary app, and focus on STEAM learning. The center maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios and follows rigorous safety protocols.
Daycare Services:
Kiddie Academy of Jacksonville
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
An educational childcare center part of a respected national franchise, serving families in Ashland and surrounding communities. Implements the Life Essentials® curriculum focusing on character development, literacy, and school readiness. Features purpose-built classrooms, secure facilities with electronic entry systems, and nutritionally balanced meals. The academy employs qualified educators with background checks and continuous training. Highlights include technology-integrated learning, regular progress assessments, and strong parent partnerships through daily updates and portfolio documentation. The program emphasizes social-emotional learning alongside academic preparation in a safe, stimulating environment.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Ashland, IL
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Ashland, IL, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Ashland, IL, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $150 to $225 per week, while toddler and preschool care generally costs between $125 and $185 per week. These rates are often lower than in larger Illinois cities like Springfield or Chicago. For financial assistance, parents can apply for the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), which provides subsidies based on income, family size, and need. Locally, you can apply through the Cass County Health Department or the DHS office serving the region. Additionally, some local providers may offer sibling discounts or sliding scale fees, so it's always worth asking directly.
How do I verify that a daycare or home childcare provider in Ashland is properly licensed and what should I look for during a visit?
All licensed daycare centers and home providers in Ashland must be licensed by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). You can verify a provider's license status, view inspection reports, and check for any violations by using the DCFS "Child Care Facility and Day Care Home Search" tool online. During a visit to a local provider, look for the DCFS license visibly posted, ask about caregiver-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants, 1:8 for 2-year-olds), observe the cleanliness and safety of the environment, and inquire about staff qualifications and ongoing training. In a small community like Ashland, also ask for references from other local families.
Are there long waitlists for daycare in Ashland, and when should I start looking for a spot?
Due to the limited number of providers in a small town like Ashland, waitlists can be common, especially for infant care and highly-regarded local preschool programs. It is strongly recommended to begin your search and get on waitlists at least 6 to 9 months before you need care, and if you are expecting, ideally during your second trimester. Popular local options, such as the Ashland Head Start program or the daycare associated with the local school district, often have the longest lists. Be proactive by contacting multiple providers, including licensed home daycares in the area, to increase your chances of securing a spot.
What are the main types of childcare options available specifically in Ashland, IL?
Parents in Ashland have several options, though the selection is more limited than in urban areas. The primary types include: 1) **Licensed Daycare Centers**: Such as the program offered through the Ashland CUSD #212 district for preschool-age children. 2) **Licensed Family Child Care Homes**: These are smaller, home-based operations that can offer a more family-like setting; several operate in and around Ashland. 3) **Head Start/Early Head Start**: A federally-funded preschool program for income-eligible families, which focuses on school readiness and is often hosted locally. 4) **Part-Day Preschools**: Often run by churches or community organizations. For school-age children, the Ashland school district may offer before/after-school care.
What resources are available in Ashland to help me find and compare local childcare providers?
The best centralized resource for Ashland parents is the **Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency** for the region, which is Illinois Action for Children. They maintain a database of all licensed providers, can help you search based on your specific needs (hours, age, location), and offer guidance on choosing quality care. You can contact them online or by phone. Locally, you can also check with the **Ashland Public Library**, the **Cass County Health Department**, and community bulletin boards (both physical and online, like the Ashland community Facebook page) for postings and recommendations from other parents. Networking with other families in the school district is also a valuable way to get firsthand reviews.