The Best Daycare Centers in Franklin, IL
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Franklin. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Franklin
Franklin Child Care Center
Independent
Franklin Child Care Center is a locally-owned facility serving the Franklin community with comprehensive early childhood education programs. The center features a play-based learning curriculum that incorporates literacy development, math readiness, and social-emotional learning. Their qualified teaching staff maintains low teacher-to-child ratios and holds certifications in CPR, First Aid, and early childhood development. The facility includes secure indoor classrooms with age-appropriate learning centers and a fenced outdoor playground. They provide nutritious meals and snacks following USDA guidelines and offer flexible scheduling to accommodate working families. The center stands out for its strong community connections and individualized attention to each child's developmental needs.
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Little Learners Academy
Independent
Located in nearby Benton and serving Franklin families, Little Learners Academy offers a structured educational program focusing on school readiness. Their curriculum includes Montessori-inspired activities, STEM exploration, and literacy development. The center features certified early childhood educators with bachelor's degrees in education or related fields. Safety measures include secure entry systems, comprehensive background checks, and regular safety drills. The facility includes dedicated infant rooms, toddler learning centers, preschool classrooms with interactive technology, and a nature-based outdoor learning environment. Parents appreciate the detailed daily communication and regular developmental assessments that track each child's progress.
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Kiddie Kampus Learning Center
Independent
Kiddie Kampus Learning Center in West Frankfort serves the broader Franklin County area with a comprehensive early childhood education program. Their research-based curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning through centers including art, dramatic play, blocks, and literacy. The center maintains state-exceeded staff-to-child ratios and employs teachers with specialized training in early childhood development. The facility features age-separated playgrounds, modern security systems, and clean, well-organized classrooms with natural lighting. Their program includes enrichment activities such as music, movement, and Spanish language exposure. The center is noted for its strong parent-teacher partnerships and transparent communication through daily reports and parent portals.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Franklin, IL
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Franklin, Illinois, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Franklin, Illinois, all daycare centers and licensed home daycares must be licensed by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). DCFS sets strict standards for staff-to-child ratios, staff qualifications (including background checks and ongoing training), facility safety, health and sanitation, and programming. To verify a provider's license and compliance history, you can use the DCFS Child Care Facility Search tool online. It's highly recommended to check this for any provider you're considering, as it will show the license status, capacity, and any recent licensing violations or investigations. You can also contact the DCFS licensing representative for our region for additional confirmation.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Franklin, IL, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Franklin and the surrounding Morgan County area, the average cost for full-time, center-based infant care typically ranges from $150 to $225 per week. For toddlers, it's often slightly lower, around $130 to $200 per week. Home-based daycare may be less expensive. These costs can vary based on the facility's amenities, hours, and curriculum. For financial assistance, Illinois' Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) helps eligible low-income families pay for care. You apply through the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS). Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's always worth asking directly.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Franklin, and what can I do to secure a spot for my child?
Waitlists in Franklin can vary significantly. For popular centers and especially for infant care (which has the strictest staff-to-child ratios), waitlists of 3 to 9 months are not uncommon. Some smaller home-based providers may have immediate openings or shorter waits. To secure a spot, start your search early—ideally during pregnancy or several months before you need care. Contact multiple providers to get on their lists, and be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist fee, which is common. Follow up politely every few months to express continued interest. Also, consider expanding your search to neighboring towns like Jacksonville or Waverly for more options.
Are there any daycare centers or preschools in Franklin that offer specialized programs or cater to specific needs, such as early learning curricula or care for children with disabilities?
While Franklin is a smaller community, several providers incorporate structured early learning. Some centers use play-based or faith-based curricula to prepare children for kindergarten. For specialized needs, such as care for children with disabilities, you should inquire directly with providers about their experience, staff training, and facility accessibility. The primary resource for specialized support is the Illinois Early Intervention program for children under 3, which can provide services within a daycare setting. For children 3-5, the Franklin School District may provide preschool services for children with identified needs. It's crucial to have open conversations with potential providers about your child's specific requirements to ensure they can offer appropriate care.
What are the options for part-time, drop-in, or after-school childcare in Franklin, IL?
Full-time care is more common, but part-time and after-school options do exist in Franklin. Some licensed home daycares may offer more flexible part-time schedules. For after-school care, the Franklin Elementary School may offer a program or have information on local providers who transport from the school. For true drop-in or occasional care, options are extremely limited in Franklin itself. Parents often need to look to larger nearby communities like Jacksonville, which may have drop-in centers. For reliable part-time care, your best bet is to network with other local parents and contact home-based providers directly to discuss flexible arrangements, as they may have more ability to accommodate non-standard schedules than larger centers.