The Best Daycare Centers in Greenfield, IL
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Greenfield. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Greenfield
KinderCare at Jerseyville
KinderCare Learning Companies LLC
KinderCare at Jerseyville offers a comprehensive early childhood education program with a play-based learning approach that emphasizes literacy, math, and social skills development. The center features qualified teachers with backgrounds in early childhood education, low teacher-to-child ratios, and a safe, nurturing environment. Their curriculum includes hands-on activities, STEM exploration, and personalized learning plans. Facilities include age-appropriate classrooms, outdoor play areas, and secure entry systems. Parents praise the center's strong communication, nutritious meal programs, and focus on developmental milestones, making it a trusted choice for families in the Greenfield area.
Daycare Services:
The Goddard School of Edwardsville
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Edwardsville provides a high-quality early learning experience through its F.L.E.X.® (Fun Learning Experience) curriculum, which balances academic readiness with social-emotional development. Staffed by degreed teachers, the school emphasizes literacy, creativity, and problem-solving skills in a safe, technologically advanced environment. Key features include low student-teacher ratios, daily updates for parents, and enriched learning spaces with indoor and outdoor play areas. The school is renowned for its inclusive atmosphere, robust safety protocols, and strong parent satisfaction, serving as a reliable option for Greenfield residents seeking comprehensive childcare.
Daycare Services:
Childtime of Alton
Childtime Learning Centers
Childtime of Alton delivers an age-appropriate curriculum focused on school readiness through activities in literacy, math
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Greenfield, IL
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Greenfield, IL, and how can I verify a facility's license?
In Greenfield, Illinois, all daycare centers and group homes caring for more than three children must be licensed by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). This licensing ensures facilities meet state standards for safety, staff-to-child ratios, staff background checks, health and sanitation, and programming. Family child care homes caring for up to eight children can be either licensed or license-exempt (with DCFS approval). To verify a provider's license status, you can use the DCFS Child Care Facility Search tool online or contact the DCFS licensing representative for the region that includes Greenfield. It's highly recommended to only consider licensed providers for the assurance of regulated safety and quality standards.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Greenfield, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Greenfield and the surrounding rural areas of Greene County, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $150 to $225 per week, while toddler care may cost between $130 and $200 per week. These rates are generally lower than in larger Illinois cities but can vary based on the facility's amenities and program structure. For financial assistance, Illinois' Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) is the primary resource for eligible families based on income, family size, and need (such as employment or education). You can apply through the Greene County Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) office. Additionally, some local providers may offer sibling discounts or sliding scale fees, so it's always worth asking directly.
How common are daycare waitlists in Greenfield, and when should I start looking for care before I need it?
Due to the limited number of licensed daycare providers in a smaller community like Greenfield, waitlists are very common, especially for infant care slots which have the strictest staff-to-child ratios. It is not unusual for popular centers or highly-regarded home providers to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months. For parents in Greenfield, we strongly recommend beginning your search at least 9-12 months before your anticipated start date. For expecting parents, initiating visits and applications during the second trimester is a prudent strategy. Be sure to ask providers about their specific waitlist policies, including any deposit requirements to hold a spot.
What types of childcare settings are most available in Greenfield—centers, home-based daycares, or preschools?
Greenfield's childcare landscape is predominantly made up of licensed family child care homes and a smaller number of daycare centers. Given the town's size, home-based daycares are often the most numerous option, offering a smaller, home-like environment. There are also church-affiliated preschool programs that may offer part-day options for children ages 3-5. For full-time, all-day care for infants and young toddlers, licensed home providers are frequently the primary available choice. There are limited large corporate childcare centers. Exploring options in nearby communities like Carrollton or Jerseyville may provide additional center-based choices for commuting parents.
Are there any unique local resources or networks in Greenfield to help parents find and evaluate childcare options?
Yes, a key local resource is the Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency that serves Greene County, which includes Greenfield. While not based directly in Greenfield, agencies like "4-C: Community Coordinated Child Care" for Southern Illinois provide free referral services, helping parents find licensed providers that match their needs. You can contact them via phone or online. Additionally, connecting with other parents through local Facebook community groups (e.g., "Greenfield, IL Community") or asking for recommendations at the Greene County Health Department or the Greenfield Elementary School can provide valuable, word-of-mouth insights into provider reputations and availability that you won't find on a formal listing.