Elizabethtown, IL

Shawnee Development Council operates a comprehensive Head Start program in Hardin County focusing on school readiness and child development. The center provides evidence-based early childhood education with qualified teachers holding degrees in early childhood education. Their curriculum emphasizes literacy, numeracy, and social-emotional development through structured play and learning activities. The facility maintains low teacher-to-child ratios and follows strict safety protocols. Services include health screenings, nutritional meals, and family support services. As a federally-funded program, they serve income-eligible families with comprehensive early childhood services.

Located in nearby Harrisburg (serving the broader Southern Illinois region including Hardin County), Kiddie Kampus Learning Center provides high-quality childcare with a strong educational foundation. The center features a comprehensive curriculum that includes STEM activities, literacy development, and creative arts. All teachers are CPR and First Aid certified with ongoing professional development. The facility includes age-appropriate classrooms, secure entry systems, and outdoor play areas. They emphasize individualized learning plans and maintain open communication with parents through daily reports and regular conferences. Their nutrition program provides balanced meals meeting USDA guidelines.

Serving Southern Illinois families including Hardin County residents, Little Learners Academy offers a nurturing environment with a play-based learning approach. The center's curriculum is designed to promote cognitive, social, and physical development through hands-on activities and structured learning centers. Qualified early childhood educators implement developmentally appropriate practices with small class sizes. Safety features include secured entrances, comprehensive background checks for staff, and regular safety drills. The academy provides nutritious meals and snacks, and maintains strong parent partnerships through regular communication and family engagement events. Their program includes kindergarten readiness assessment and transition support.