The Best Daycare Centers in Hammond, IL
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Hammond. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Hammond
Little Angels Learning Center
Independent
Little Angels Learning Center is a highly-regarded local childcare facility serving the Hammond area with a comprehensive educational approach. They implement a play-based curriculum that emphasizes early literacy, math readiness, and social-emotional development. The center features state-certified teachers with specialized early childhood education training, maintaining excellent teacher-to-child ratios. Their facility includes secure indoor learning environments with age-appropriate classrooms and safe outdoor play areas. What makes Little Angels stand out is their strong focus on individualized learning plans, regular parent-teacher communication, and their commitment to creating a nurturing, family-like atmosphere. They provide nutritious meals and snacks and have robust security protocols including controlled access entry systems.
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Kiddie Academy of Orland Park
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Orland Park is a premier educational childcare center serving the broader Hammond region with their Life Essentials® curriculum that balances academic preparation with character development. Their program focuses on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) activities, literacy development, and social skills. The center employs degreed early childhood educators who receive ongoing professional development. Facilities include modern classrooms with interactive technology, dedicated playgrounds for different age groups, and secure entry systems. Kiddie Academy stands out for their comprehensive approach that includes health and fitness programming, technology integration, and strong parent communication through their proprietary mobile app. They maintain excellent safety records and high parent satisfaction ratings.
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The Goddard School of Mokena
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Mokena provides high-quality early childhood education to families in the Hammond service area with their F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) program. This play-based curriculum emphasizes academic readiness, social development, and creative expression through structured learning centers. The school features highly qualified teachers with bachelor's degrees in education or related fields, and maintains low student-teacher ratios. Their facility includes bright, well-equipped classrooms, multiple playgrounds designed for different developmental stages, and comprehensive security systems. The Goddard School stands out for their focus on individualized development tracking, enrichment programs including yoga and foreign language exposure, and their commitment to creating a stimulating learning environment that prepares children for kindergarten and beyond.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Hammond, IL
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Hammond, Illinois, and how can I verify a facility's license?
In Hammond, Illinois, all daycare centers and home-based daycare providers (caring for more than 3 children) must be licensed by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). DCFS sets strict standards for health, safety, staff qualifications, child-to-staff ratios, and program activities. To verify a facility's license and view any history of violations, you can use the DCFS "Child Care Facility and Foster Home Search" tool on their official website. You can also call the DCFS Day Care Information Line. It's highly recommended to check this status for any provider you are considering, as it ensures they meet the minimum state safety requirements.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Hammond, IL?
The cost of daycare in Hammond is generally more affordable than in larger metropolitan areas of Illinois, but it varies by type of care. For a licensed daycare center, you can expect to pay an average of $700 to $950 per month for full-time infant or toddler care. Licensed home-based daycares often range from $600 to $800 per month. Factors affecting cost include the facility's amenities, staff credentials, and included services like meals. It's important to ask what the weekly/monthly fee includes (diapers, wipes, formula, meals) to accurately compare options. Financial assistance may be available through the Illinois Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) for eligible families.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Hammond, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Due to the smaller number of providers in a town like Hammond compared to a major city, popular and highly-rated daycare centers often have waitlists, especially for infant care. It is strongly advised to begin your search at least 6 to 9 months before you need care, and if you are expecting, to get on lists during your second trimester. When contacting providers, ask directly about their current waitlist length and if they charge a fee to be placed on it. Exploring nearby home-based licensed providers or options in neighboring towns like Gibson City or Paxton can also provide more immediate availability.
What resources are available in Hammond to help me find and evaluate local childcare options?
The primary local resource for finding childcare is the **Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency for your region**, which is often the "Illinois Action for Children" network or a similar service. They maintain a database of all licensed providers in the Hammond area and can provide referrals based on your specific needs (hours, age, location). You can contact them online or by phone. Additionally, local community hubs like the Hammond Public Library or the Ford County Health Department may have bulletin boards or information. Talking to other parents at local parks or through community Facebook groups (e.g., "Hammond, IL Community") can provide invaluable firsthand reviews and recommendations.
What are some key questions to ask a potential daycare provider in Hammond during a tour or interview?
Beyond general questions, tailor your inquiries to the local context. Key questions include: "Are you licensed by Illinois DCFS, and may I see your current license?" "What is your staff turnover rate, and what are the qualifications of the caregivers?" "What is your plan for emergency situations, and how do you communicate with parents during severe weather common to Central Illinois?" "Do you follow the Illinois Early Learning and Development Standards for curriculum?" "What is your policy for sick children, especially given the proximity to agricultural areas where allergies or exposures might differ?" Also, ask for references from current Hammond-area parents. Observing how children interact with staff during your visit is crucial.