The Best Daycare Centers in Harristown, IL
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Harristown. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Harristown
The Goddard School of Springfield
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Springfield offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that focuses on academic readiness, social development, and creative expression. Their highly qualified teachers hold degrees in early childhood education and maintain low student-to-teacher ratios. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. Their comprehensive curriculum includes STEAM learning, language development, and character education, with regular parent communication through daily reports and an exclusive mobile app.
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Kiddie Academy of Springfield
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Springfield provides educational child care with their Life Essentials® curriculum that promotes social, emotional, physical, and intellectual development. The academy features secure facilities with coded entry systems, modern classrooms with natural lighting, and age-appropriate learning centers. Their degreed teachers implement developmentally appropriate practices and maintain detailed progress reports for each child. The program includes character education, technology integration, and nutritious meals prepared on-site. Parents appreciate the strong communication through daily updates and regular parent-teacher conferences.
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Bright Horizons at Springfield
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Springfield offers a research-based curriculum called The World at Their Fingertips that emphasizes literacy, mathematics, science, and social studies through hands-on learning. The center features state-of-the-art security systems, dedicated age-specific playgrounds, and well-equipped classrooms with learning centers. Their teachers hold early childhood credentials and participate in ongoing professional development. The program includes emergent curriculum approaches, individualized learning plans, and enrichment activities in music, movement, and art. Families benefit from regular developmental assessments and strong parent partnership programs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Harristown, IL
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Harristown, Illinois, and how can I verify a facility's license?
In Harristown, as in all of Illinois, daycare providers must be licensed by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). This includes family child care homes (serving up to 8 children) and day care centers. DCFS conducts background checks, inspects for health and safety standards, and ensures staff meet training requirements in areas like first aid, CPR, and mandated reporter training. To verify a facility's license status, you can use the DCFS "Child Care License Lookup" tool on their official website. You can also contact the DCFS Springfield regional office for the most current information. It's highly recommended to only consider licensed providers to ensure your child's safety and a regulated standard of care.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Harristown, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Harristown and the surrounding Logan County area, the average cost for full-time infant care typically ranges from $175 to $250 per week. For toddlers, the cost is slightly lower, averaging $150 to $225 per week. These rates can vary based on the type of facility (center vs. home-based), the specific programs offered, and the provider's hours. For financial assistance, Illinois offers the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), which helps eligible low-income families pay for care. Applications are processed through the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS). Additionally, some local employers or community organizations may offer subsidies or flexible spending account (FSA) options. It's best to inquire directly with providers about any sliding scale fees they might offer.
Are daycare waitlists common in Harristown, and how far in advance should I start looking for care?
Yes, waitlists for quality daycare, especially for infants, are quite common in Harristown due to limited slots and high demand for reliable care. For popular centers and highly recommended home-based providers, waitlists can be several months long. It is strongly advised to begin your search during your pregnancy or at least 6-9 months before you need care to secure a spot. When touring facilities, always ask about their current waitlist length and policy. Some may require a deposit to hold a spot. Being proactive and getting on multiple lists can significantly increase your chances of finding care when you need it.
What are the typical operating hours for daycare centers in Harristown, and is there flexibility for parents with non-standard work schedules?
Most licensed daycare centers in Harristown operate on a standard schedule, typically from around 6:30 AM to 5:30 PM, Monday through Friday. However, options for extended hours, early drop-off, or late pick-up are limited. For parents with shift work, overnight hours, or weekend needs, your best bet is to seek out licensed family child care homes, as they may offer more flexible, individualized schedules. It's crucial to discuss your specific hours during your initial inquiry. Some providers may accommodate for an additional fee. There are very few 24-hour facilities in the area, so planning ahead for alternative care during off-hours is often necessary.
What local resources in Harristown can help me find and evaluate quality childcare options?
A key local resource is the **Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency for your region**, which is often the first stop for parents. While Harristown itself is small, you can contact the CCR&R serving Central Illinois (such as the one based in Springfield or Bloomington) for free referrals and guidance. They maintain databases of licensed providers. Additionally, you can: * Check with the **Harristown Community Building** or local churches, as some may host preschool programs or have information on home-based providers. * Ask for personal recommendations from your pediatrician's office in nearby Decatur or Springfield, other parents at the **Harristown Park**, or through local Facebook community groups. * Review inspection reports and any quality ratings (like Illinois' ExceleRate Gold Circle of Quality) through the DCFS and ExceleRate Illinois websites.