The Best Daycare Centers in Clarendon Hills, IL
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Clarendon Hills. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Clarendon Hills
The Goddard School of Hinsdale
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in nearby Hinsdale serves Clarendon Hills families with a comprehensive F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) program that balances academic preparation with social development. Their curriculum focuses on STEAM learning, literacy development, and character education. Features include state-certified teachers, low student-to-teacher ratios, secure entry systems, and daily communication with parents through a proprietary app. The facility includes age-appropriate classrooms, outdoor playgrounds, and dedicated spaces for art, music, and movement activities.
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Bright Horizons at Hinsdale
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Hinsdale provides premium early education serving Clarendon Hills and surrounding communities with their World at Their Fingertips curriculum. The program emphasizes emergent literacy, mathematics, science, and social studies through hands-on learning. Features include degreed teachers, comprehensive safety protocols including secured facilities and health screening procedures, nutritious meal programs, and regular developmental assessments. The center offers flexible scheduling and maintains NAEYC accreditation standards with emphasis on individualized learning plans and family partnership.
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KLA Schools of Hinsdale
KLA Schools
KLA Schools of Hinsdale implements the Reggio Emilia inspired approach, serving Clarendon Hills families with a project-based curriculum that fosters creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration. The center features natural light-filled classrooms, ateliers (art studios), and extensive documentation of children's learning journeys. Their program includes Spanish language immersion, organic meal options, and comprehensive safety measures including secure access and emergency preparedness protocols. Teachers hold early childhood credentials and receive ongoing professional development in child-led learning methodologies.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Clarendon Hills, IL
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Clarendon Hills, and are there any local resources to help with affordability?
In Clarendon Hills, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $1,600 to $2,200 per month, while preschool for a 3-5 year old generally costs between $1,200 and $1,800 per month. These costs reflect the village's high-quality programs, lower child-to-staff ratios, and facility standards. For financial assistance, Illinois' Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) is available for eligible families, and some local centers may offer sibling discounts or flexible payment plans. Additionally, the Clarendon Hills Park District offers preschool and early childhood programs that can be a more affordable option than private centers, though they often have shorter daily hours.
How long are waitlists for infant care at popular daycare centers in Clarendon Hills, and when should I start looking?
Waitlists for infant rooms (children under 15 months) at sought-after centers in Clarendon Hills can be notoriously long, often ranging from 6 to 12 months, and sometimes longer. Due to strict Illinois licensing ratios (1 staff to 4 infants), spots are very limited. It is highly recommended that expecting parents begin touring facilities and getting on waitlists during the first or early second trimester of pregnancy. Be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist fee (typically $50-$150) and to follow up periodically to express continued interest.
What are the main differences between a licensed daycare center and a licensed home daycare in Clarendon Hills, and how do I verify their licensing?
Licensed centers in Clarendon Hills are commercial facilities with multiple classrooms and staff, often following a specific educational curriculum (like Montessori or Reggio Emilia). Licensed family child care homes operate out of a provider's residence, offering a smaller, home-like setting with mixed-age groups. Both are regulated by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). You can verify the license status, view inspection reports, and check for any violations of any provider for free through the DCFS "Child Care License Lookup" tool online. This is a critical step for vetting any option.
Are there part-time or flexible childcare options available in Clarendon Hills for parents who don't need full-time care?
Yes, several options exist for part-time care. Many local daycare centers and preschools offer 2, 3, or 5 half-day or full-day programs per week. The Clarendon Hills Park District is a key resource for flexible, part-time preschool and enrichment programs. Additionally, you may find licensed home daycares that are more willing to accommodate non-standard schedules. For occasional or backup care, services like Care.com or local nanny shares organized through community Facebook groups (e.g., Clarendon Hills Moms) can be useful. It's important to inquire directly about part-time availability, as it is more limited than full-time.
What should I look for during a tour of a daycare facility in Clarendon Hills, and what local-specific questions should I ask?
During a tour, observe cleanliness, child engagement, and staff-child interactions. Check for secure entrances and fenced outdoor play areas. Specifically for Clarendon Hills, ask: 1) "What is your severe weather and safe room policy?" (given Illinois' tornado risk). 2) "How do you handle communication with parents, and are staff trained in the specific emergency protocols for our village?" 3) "What is your policy on outdoor play during colder months, and do children go outside daily at Walker Park or other local spots?" 4) "Can you describe your partnership with the Clarendon Hills Library for story times or other community resources?" 5) "What is your sick policy, and how does it align with common illness trends in our local schools (District 181)?" Also, ask for references from current Clarendon Hills families.
Nearby Cities
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