The Best Daycare Centers in Great Lakes, IL
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Great Lakes. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Great Lakes
The Goddard School of Gurnee
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Gurnee offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that focuses on academic, social, and emotional development. Their play-based curriculum is enhanced by STEAM learning (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) and promotes literacy development. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and bright, modern classrooms. All teachers are highly qualified with early childhood education backgrounds and receive ongoing professional development. The school maintains low student-to-teacher ratios and provides regular parent communication through daily reports and an exclusive mobile app.
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Kiddie Academy of Libertyville
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Libertyville provides comprehensive educational childcare with their Life Essentials® curriculum that balances academic preparation with character development. The program emphasizes STEM education, literacy development, and social skills through hands-on learning activities. The facility features secure keypad entry, dedicated age-appropriate learning environments, and outdoor play spaces. All lead teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields, and the academy maintains stringent health and safety protocols including regular sanitation and security monitoring. Parents receive daily activity reports and photos through the proprietary mobile app.
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The Learning Experience - Gurnee
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Gurnee offers a proprietary L.E.A.P.® (Learning Experience Academic Program) curriculum that incorporates early literacy, mathematics, science, and social studies through interactive learning. The center features specialized programs including philanthropy curriculum, music and movement classes, and foreign language exposure. The facility includes secure entry systems, monitored classrooms, and age-appropriate playgrounds with safety surfaces. All teachers are CPR and First Aid certified with ongoing professional development requirements. The center provides nutritious meals and snacks, regular developmental assessments, and maintains excellent staff-to-child ratios for personalized attention.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Great Lakes, IL
What are the typical costs for daycare in Great Lakes, IL, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Great Lakes, IL, daycare costs vary significantly based on the child's age and the type of care. For infants, full-time center-based care typically ranges from $1,200 to $1,600 per month, while toddler care is slightly lower, around $1,000 to $1,400 per month. Home-based family daycare is often more affordable, averaging $800 to $1,200 monthly. These costs are influenced by the proximity to Naval Station Great Lakes, which can increase demand. For financial assistance, Illinois offers the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), which helps eligible low-income families, including military families stationed at the base. Additionally, the Great Lakes community may have specific resources through military family support programs. It's crucial to apply early, as funding can be limited.
How do I verify if a daycare provider in Great Lakes is properly licensed and what are Illinois' key regulations?
All licensed daycare providers in Illinois, including those in Great Lakes, must be registered with the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). You can verify a provider's license status and review any history of violations by using the DCFS "Child Care Facility Search" tool online. Key regulations for Illinois include staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants, 1:8 for toddlers), background checks for all employees, and mandatory health and safety training. In Great Lakes, due to the military presence, some providers may also adhere to additional standards for working with military families. Always visit the facility in person to assess cleanliness, safety, and the overall environment beyond the license.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers near Naval Station Great Lakes, and how can I secure a spot?
Yes, due to high demand from military and civilian families in the Great Lakes area, especially near Naval Station Great Lakes, many reputable daycare centers have significant waitlists, often ranging from 3 to 12 months, particularly for infant care. To secure a spot, start your search as early as possible—ideally during pregnancy or several months before you need care. Contact multiple centers to get on their lists, and consider both on-base options (like the Child Development Center) and off-base licensed centers or home providers in surrounding areas like North Chicago or Gurnee. Be proactive by following up regularly and having backup plans, such as a nanny share or family daycare.
What types of childcare options are available in Great Lakes for parents with non-traditional or shift work schedules?
Great Lakes offers several options for parents with irregular hours, common among military personnel and healthcare workers in the area. Some licensed home daycare providers offer flexible or extended hours to accommodate shift work. The Child Development Center (CDC) at Naval Station Great Lakes may have limited extended care options for eligible families. Additionally, you can explore drop-in care centers in nearby Gurnee or Waukegan, or utilize registered babysitting networks through local community boards or military spouse groups. It's essential to discuss your specific schedule needs upfront with providers, as not all centers offer evening, overnight, or weekend care.
What resources are available in Great Lakes to help me evaluate and choose a quality daycare?
Parents in Great Lakes can utilize several local resources to assess daycare quality. First, check the Illinois DCFS licensing and violation reports online. Second, the Great Lakes Naval Station Family Support Center offers referrals and can provide insights on providers familiar with military family needs. Third, use platforms like Illinois' "ExceleRate Illinois" quality rating system, which evaluates programs on a scale from "Licensed" to "Gold Circle of Quality." Additionally, join local parent groups on social media (e.g., Great Lakes Area Parents Facebook groups) for firsthand reviews and recommendations. Always schedule visits, ask about curriculum, staff turnover, and safety protocols, and trust your observations during tours.
Nearby Cities
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