The Best Daycare Centers in Evanston, IL
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Evanston. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Evanston
McGaw YMCA Children's Center
McGaw YMCA
The McGaw YMCA Children's Center has been a trusted childcare institution in Evanston for over four decades, operating with a play-based, developmental approach that emphasizes social-emotional learning and whole-child development. The center features highly qualified early childhood educators with bachelor's and master's degrees, maintaining excellent teacher-to-child ratios that exceed state requirements. Their curriculum incorporates literacy, math, science, and creative arts through hands-on learning experiences in spacious, well-equipped classrooms and outdoor play areas. The facility emphasizes safety with secure entry systems, comprehensive background checks for all staff, and rigorous health protocols. Parents consistently praise the center's nurturing environment, strong community connections, and the YMCA's commitment to character development and inclusion.
Daycare Services:
Chiaravalle Montessori School
Chiaravalle Montessori
Chiaravalle Montessori offers an authentic Montessori education with AMI (Association Montessori Internationale) certified teachers and carefully prepared learning environments designed to foster independence, concentration, and natural curiosity. The school serves children from infancy through middle school, with specially trained guides who observe and support each child's individual developmental trajectory. Classrooms feature beautiful Montessori materials that encourage hands-on exploration in practical life, sensorial development, language, mathematics, and cultural studies. The infant and toddler programs emphasize movement, language acquisition, and care of self in thoughtfully designed spaces that promote security and exploration. Parents consistently report exceptional academic preparation, strong social-emotional development, and a genuine love of learning cultivated in their children. The school maintains small class sizes and emphasizes peaceful conflict resolution and global citizenship.
Daycare Services:
The Goddard School of Wilmette
Goddard Systems, Inc.
Located just minutes from Evanston in neighboring Wilmette, The Goddard School serves many Evanston families with its F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic readiness with social development and citizenship. The school features state-certified teachers with degrees in early childhood education who implement a play-based curriculum incorporating literacy, STEM, art, and music in purpose-built classrooms. Safety is paramount with secured entry systems, comprehensive staff training, and strict health protocols. The facility includes age-appropriate playgrounds, indoor gyms, and dedicated learning centers for different developmental stages. Parents consistently praise the school's excellent communication through daily activity reports and photos, the professionalism of the staff, and the well-rounded preparation children receive for elementary school. The Goddard School's national accreditation and consistent high ratings make it a top choice for Evanston-area families.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Evanston, IL
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Evanston, IL?
In Evanston, full-time daycare costs are generally higher than the Illinois state average due to the city's proximity to Chicago and higher cost of living. For infants (under 2 years), parents can expect to pay between $1,800 and $2,400 per month at a licensed center. For toddlers (2-3 years), monthly fees typically range from $1,500 to $2,100. Home-based daycare (licensed family childcare) is often more affordable, ranging from $1,200 to $1,800 monthly for full-time care. These costs can vary based on the facility's amenities, curriculum (e.g., Montessori, Reggio Emilia), and staff-to-child ratios. It's important to ask what is included in tuition, such as meals, diapers, and enrichment programs. Financial assistance may be available through the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) for eligible families.
How do I verify a daycare is properly licensed and what specific regulations should I be aware of in Evanston?
All daycare centers and group/family homes in Evanston must be licensed by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). You can verify a provider's license status and view any history of violations through the DCFS "Child Care Facility and Foster Home Search" tool on their website. Key Illinois regulations include staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants, 1:5 for toddlers), mandatory background checks for all staff, and annual health and safety training. Evanston providers must also comply with local health department ordinances. When touring a facility, don't hesitate to ask for their current license and their most recent DCFS monitoring report. Many high-quality centers in Evanston also pursue voluntary accreditation from organizations like the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), which indicates higher standards.
Are waitlists common for daycare centers in Evanston, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, waitlists are very common for daycare centers in Evanston, especially for infant rooms which have the strictest staff-to-child ratios. For popular centers affiliated with Northwestern University, major employers, or those with renowned educational philosophies, waitlists can be 6 to 12 months long or more. It is strongly recommended that expecting parents begin researching and touring facilities during their second trimester, and get on waitlists as soon as possible. For toddler or preschool spots, starting your search 4-6 months in advance is advisable. When getting on a waitlist, ask about the policy: Is there a fee? Is it a rolling list or by anticipated start date? How often should you check in? Also explore smaller family childcare homes, which may have more immediate availability.
What resources are available in Evanston to help me find and compare local childcare options?
Evanston parents have several excellent local resources. The primary hub is the **Evanston Early Childhood Council (EECC)**, which provides referrals, resources, and support. The **City of Evanston's Parks, Recreation & Community Services Department** also offers preschool and childcare programs and may have guidance. For a comprehensive search, use the **Illinois Network of Child Care Resource & Referral Agencies (INCCRRA)** website or call their referral line; they maintain a database of all licensed providers. Additionally, **Northwestern University's Work-Life Resources** offers childcare referral services for its faculty, staff, and students. Many Evanston parents also rely on community Facebook groups (e.g., "Evanston Moms & Dads") and neighborhood listservs for personal recommendations and insights into local daycare experiences.
Beyond traditional daycare centers, what are some unique or alternative childcare programs available in Evanston?
Evanston offers a variety of alternative childcare options. The **Evanston Public Library** hosts regular storytimes and early learning programs that can supplement care. Several **cooperative preschools** exist, where parents assist in the classroom in exchange for reduced tuition and a hands-on role. Many **community centers**, like the McGaw YMCA and the Levy Senior Center, offer preschool and after-school programs. For flexible or part-time care, you can find **licensed family childcare homes** in residential neighborhoods, which often provide a home-like setting. **Nature-based preschools** are growing in popularity, utilizing local parks and the lakefront. Additionally, **Evanston/Skokie School District 65** offers state-funded Preschool for All programs for eligible 3- and 4-year-olds, and tuition-based early childhood programs at locations like the Joseph E. Hill Early Childhood Center.