The Best Daycare Centers in Cicero, IL
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Cicero. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Cicero
KinderCare Learning Center at Cicero
KinderCare Education
This KinderCare center offers a comprehensive educational program with research-based curriculum including phonics, math, science, and social skills development. Features secure entry systems, certified teachers with early childhood education credentials, and age-appropriate learning environments. The center provides nutritious meals and snacks, regular parent-teacher conferences, and developmental progress reports. Their Playground to the 5th Power outdoor learning environment encourages physical development and exploration.
Daycare Services:
Bright Horizons at Oak Park
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Located just minutes from Cicero, this NAEYC-accredited center offers the World at Their Fingertips curriculum emphasizing literacy, mathematics, science, and creative arts. Features highly qualified teachers with bachelor's degrees in early childhood education, low student-teacher ratios, and secure facility with keypad entry. The program includes organic meals, regular communication through parent apps, and emphasis on social-emotional development. Serves many families from the Cicero area with flexible scheduling options.
Daycare Services:
The Goddard School of Berwyn
Goddard Systems, Inc.
This Goddard School location serves the Cicero community with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with play-based activities. Features state-licensed teachers, STEAM curriculum integration, and secure facilities with observation windows. The school emphasizes character development, offers enrichment programs including yoga and foreign language exposure, and maintains strict health and safety protocols. Parents receive daily activity reports and photos through the proprietary communication system.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Cicero, IL
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Cicero, IL, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Cicero, all childcare facilities must be licensed by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). This includes meeting strict standards for staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants, 1:10 for 4-year-olds), background checks for all employees, health and safety inspections, and staff qualifications including ongoing training. To verify a provider's license and compliance history, you can use the DCFS "Child Care Lookup" tool on their official website. It's highly recommended to check this for any center or home daycare you're considering, as it will show the license status, any recent violations, and the facility's capacity.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Cicero, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
The cost of daycare in Cicero is generally lower than in downtown Chicago but can vary significantly. On average, full-time infant care at a licensed center ranges from $1,000 to $1,400 per month. For toddlers, it's typically between $900 and $1,200 per month. Home-based daycares may be slightly less expensive. For financial assistance, Illinois' Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) is the primary resource for eligible low-income families. Additionally, the Cicero community has organizations like the Cicero Youth Task Force that may offer resources or referrals. It's crucial to apply for CCAP directly through the Illinois Department of Human Services and to ask individual providers if they accept CCAP subsidies.
Are there bilingual (English/Spanish) daycare options in Cicero, and why might this be important?
Yes, bilingual daycare is a significant feature of the Cicero childcare landscape, reflecting the community's large Spanish-speaking population. Many licensed home providers and several centers offer care in both English and Spanish. This can be important for cultural connection, easing a child's transition into care, and supporting early dual-language development. For monolingual Spanish-speaking parents, it ensures clear communication about their child's needs, meals, and daily activities. When touring facilities, ask specifically about the languages spoken by lead teachers and how language integration is handled in daily routines.
How long are typical waitlists for reputable daycare centers in Cicero, and when should I start my search?
For the most sought-after centers in Cicero, especially those with high DCFS ratings or unique educational philosophies, waitlists can be 6 to 12 months long, particularly for infant rooms which have the strictest ratios. It is advisable to begin your search and get on waitlists as early as possible—ideally during pregnancy or at least 4-6 months before your needed start date. Don't be discouraged; also consider licensed group home daycares, which often have shorter wait times. Be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist fee (typically $25-$100) and to follow up periodically to express your continued interest.
What are some key factors to consider when choosing between a daycare center and a licensed home daycare in Cicero?
This choice depends on your family's priorities. **Daycare Centers** in Cicero (like those affiliated with local schools or chains) often offer structured curricula, multiple classrooms by age, and larger facilities with dedicated outdoor spaces. They may have more staff, providing coverage if a teacher is absent. **Licensed Home Daycares** (caring for up to 12 children) often provide a more intimate, family-like setting with mixed-age interactions, potentially more flexible hours, and a homier environment. They are frequently run by a single provider, so ask about backup care plans. For both, verify their DCFS license, inspect for safety and cleanliness, and observe how caregivers interact with children. Consider your commute, as Cicero's residential streets and proximity to major highways (I-290, I-55) can affect travel time to either option.