The Best Daycare Centers in Glendale Heights, IL
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Glendale Heights. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Glendale Heights
KinderCare at Glendale Heights
KinderCare Learning Companies
KinderCare at Glendale Heights offers a comprehensive early childhood education program with research-based curriculum focusing on literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development. The center features highly qualified teachers with early childhood education credentials and maintains low student-to-teacher ratios. Facilities include age-appropriate classrooms, secure entry systems, and outdoor play areas. The center provides nutritious meals and snacks, regular parent communication through the KinderCare app, and developmental progress tracking. Their approach emphasizes hands-on learning, creative expression, and preparing children for kindergarten readiness.
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The Goddard School of Glen Ellyn
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in nearby Glen Ellyn serves the Glendale Heights area with a play-based learning approach that balances academic preparation with social development. Their F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) focuses on literacy, STEM, arts, and physical development. The center features state-certified teachers, secure facilities with keypad entry, and comprehensive safety protocols. Classrooms are equipped with modern learning materials and technology, while outdoor spaces include age-appropriate playgrounds. The school emphasizes character development, communication skills, and individualized learning plans with regular progress reports for parents.
Daycare Services:
Bright Horizons at Medinah
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Medinah provides high-quality early education with their World at Their Fingertips curriculum, which integrates literacy, mathematics, science, and social studies through hands-on exploration. The center employs degreed teachers with specialized early childhood training and maintains excellent staff-to-child ratios. Facilities feature secure environments with electronic check-in systems, dedicated age-group classrooms, and outdoor learning spaces. The program emphasizes emergent curriculum based on children's interests, daily communication with parents through the MyBrightDay app, and comprehensive health and safety protocols including rigorous cleaning procedures and emergency preparedness plans.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Glendale Heights, IL
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Glendale Heights, IL?
In Glendale Heights, the cost of full-time daycare varies based on the type of facility and the child's age. For licensed daycare centers, you can expect to pay between $1,200 to $1,600 per month for infant care (6 weeks to 15 months), and approximately $1,000 to $1,400 per month for toddler care (15 months to 3 years). In-home licensed daycare providers often offer slightly lower rates, typically ranging from $800 to $1,200 monthly. These costs are influenced by factors such as staff-to-child ratios, curriculum, facility amenities, and included services like meals. It's advisable to budget for potential annual increases and inquire about any registration or supply fees, which are common in the area.
How do I verify that a daycare in Glendale Heights is properly licensed and what should I look for in state inspections?
All licensed daycare providers in Illinois are regulated by the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). You can verify a facility's license and view its full compliance history by using the "Child Care Facility Search" tool on the Illinois DCFS website. When reviewing inspection reports for a Glendale Heights provider, pay close attention to any "Type A" violations, which are serious and could pose a risk to health or safety, such as improper supervision or unsafe environments. Also, look for consistent "Type B" violations (less serious) as patterns can indicate ongoing issues. You can contact the DCFS Licensing Representative for the DuPage County region for additional context. Many local providers also welcome parents to ask about their latest inspection during a tour.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Glendale Heights, and when should I start looking?
Yes, waitlists are common for many highly-rated daycare centers and preschools in Glendale Heights, especially for infant rooms which have the strictest staff-to-child ratios. For infant care, it is strongly recommended to begin your search and get on waitlists during your second trimester of pregnancy, or at least 6-9 months before your needed start date. For toddler and preschool openings, starting your search 3-6 months in advance is advisable. Popular local centers near the Glen Oak School district or along North Avenue often have the longest waits. When contacting providers, ask specific questions about their waitlist process, including any non-refundable deposit to hold a spot and how often they update families on their position.
What resources are available in Glendale Heights to help lower-income families afford quality childcare?
Glendale Heights families have access to state and federal assistance programs. The primary resource is the Illinois Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), which provides subsidies based on family income, size, and reason for care (employment, education, etc.). Eligibility and application are managed through the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS). Additionally, the DuPage County Community Services Department can offer guidance and local referrals. Some local daycare centers and faith-based preschools in Glendale Heights may also offer sliding scale fees or limited scholarships. It's crucial to apply for CCAP as early as possible, as processing times can be lengthy, and you must choose a CCAP-participating provider.
What are the options for drop-in or part-time childcare in Glendale Heights for occasional needs?
While traditional daycare centers typically require set weekly schedules, there are options for flexible care in Glendale Heights. Some local in-home daycare providers may offer part-time or drop-in slots based on availability. Additionally, several national franchise daycare centers in the area (often located in nearby towns like Bloomingdale or Carol Stream) offer reserved "backup care" for members. For occasional evening or weekend care, parents often use trusted babysitting networks or apps, vetting sitters through local community Facebook groups like "Glendale Heights Moms." The Glendale Heights Park District also offers seasonal parents' night out programs, preschool enrichment classes, and summer camps that can serve as part-time childcare solutions.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Glendale Heights: