The Best Daycare Centers in Earlville, IL
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Earlville. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Earlville
Little Angels Daycare
Independent
Little Angels Daycare is Earlville's premier local childcare provider offering comprehensive early childhood education programs. They feature a play-based learning curriculum that incorporates STEAM activities, literacy development, and social-emotional learning. The center maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios with all staff being CPR/First Aid certified and having early childhood education credentials. Their facility includes secure indoor learning environments and a large outdoor playground with age-appropriate equipment. Parents consistently praise their transparent communication, nutritious meal program, and the nurturing environment that helps children develop confidence and essential skills.
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Bright Horizons at Sandwich
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
As part of the nationally recognized Bright Horizons network, this Sandwich location serves families throughout the Earlville area with their evidence-based World at Their Fingers curriculum. The center features state-of-the-art security systems, dedicated age-specific classrooms, and highly qualified teachers with bachelor's degrees in early childhood education. Their emergent curriculum focuses on project-based learning, literacy development, and social skills. The facility includes multiple outdoor play spaces, an indoor gym for active play, and technology-enhanced learning areas. Parents appreciate the comprehensive developmental assessments and strong parent-teacher partnerships.
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The Goddard School of Aurora
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Aurora provides premium early childhood education serving families from Earlville and surrounding communities. Their F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) balances academic preparation with social development and creative expression. The school features secure facilities with keypad entry, live streaming for parents, and comprehensive safety protocols. All lead teachers hold four-year degrees in education or related fields, and the curriculum includes foreign language exposure, technology integration, and character development. The campus includes multiple playgrounds, dedicated art and music rooms, and spacious classrooms designed to stimulate learning through play and exploration.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Earlville, IL
What are the main types of licensed childcare options available in Earlville, IL, and how do I find them?
In Earlville, parents primarily have access to licensed daycare centers and licensed home daycares (also known as family child care homes). Given Earlville's smaller, rural community in LaSalle County, home daycares are a common and often more flexible option. To find licensed providers, you should use the official Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) Child Care Search tool online. This database allows you to search by zip code (60518) and filter by type, hours, and ages accepted. Additionally, checking with the local school district (Earlville CUSD #9) or community boards can sometimes reveal smaller, reputable home providers. Always verify a provider's license status directly with DCFS before enrolling.
What is the average cost for full-time infant or toddler daycare in Earlville, and are there financial assistance programs?
In Earlville and the surrounding LaSalle County area, full-time daycare costs are generally lower than in major Illinois metro areas but can still be a significant expense. For an infant, you might expect to pay between $150 to $225 per week at a home daycare, and slightly more at a center if one is available nearby. Toddler care typically ranges from $130 to $200 weekly. Financial assistance is available through the Illinois Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), which helps eligible low-income families pay for care. Eligibility is based on family size, income, and reason for care (e.g., employment, education). You can apply through the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS). Local providers can often guide you on whether they accept CCAP subsidies.
Are waitlists common for daycare in Earlville, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Due to the limited number of providers in a small town like Earlville, waitlists for infant care, in particular, are very common and can be lengthy. Popular home daycares with good reputations may only have a few slots and fill them quickly. It is strongly recommended that parents begin their search during pregnancy, ideally 6 to 9 months before their needed start date. For toddler or preschool-age care, the timeline might be shorter (3-6 months), but starting early is still crucial. When contacting providers, ask directly about their current waitlist policy, estimated timeline, and if a deposit is required to hold a spot.
What specific state licensing requirements and safety standards should I ask about when touring a daycare in Earlville?
All licensed providers in Illinois must meet DCFS standards. When touring in Earlville, you should specifically ask to see their current license and their most recent licensing inspection report (Form CFS 690), which details any compliance issues. Key safety standards include: staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants, 1:8 for toddlers), background checks for all adults in the home or center, safe sleep practices for infants (ABCs - Alone, on their Back, in a Crib), emergency evacuation plans, and proof of immunization and training for providers. Given the rural setting, also inquire about policies for outdoor play areas and drop-off/pick-up safety, especially if the provider is on a busier road like Route 34.
For preschool-aged children in Earlville, what structured learning or pre-K programs are available within daycare settings?
While Earlville itself may not have large dedicated preschool centers, many licensed home daycares and any local daycare centers incorporate preschool curricula for children ages 3-5. Look for providers who follow structured, play-based learning models that prepare children for kindergarten at Earlville Elementary School. Ask about daily schedules that include activities for literacy (letter recognition, storytime), basic math concepts, science exploration, and social-emotional learning. Some providers may partner with or follow guidelines from the state's Early Learning Standards. Additionally, Earlville CUSD #9 may offer a state-funded Preschool for All program, but availability is limited and income-based; a local daycare provider can often give you information on how to apply.