The Best Daycare Centers in Hickory Hills, IL
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Hickory Hills. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Hickory Hills
KinderCare Learning Center at Hickory Hills
KinderCare Education LLC
KinderCare at Hickory Hills is a highly-regarded early childhood education center offering a comprehensive curriculum focused on literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development. The center features state-licensed teachers with degrees in early childhood education, low student-to-teacher ratios, and secure facilities with keypad entry systems. Their approach includes hands-on learning activities, age-appropriate play spaces, and a nutrition program that provides healthy meals and snacks. Parents praise the center's consistent communication, engaging learning environments, and strong focus on safety and developmental milestones.
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The Goddard School of Palos Hills
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in nearby Palos Hills serves Hickory Hills families with a play-based learning curriculum that emphasizes creativity, critical thinking, and social skills. Their F.L.EX.® Learning Program is developed by early childhood experts and includes STEAM activities, language arts, and physical development. The school boasts highly qualified teachers with ongoing professional development, secure classrooms with observation windows, and a fenced outdoor playground. Parents highlight the school's warm environment, excellent teacher-child interactions, and robust parent communication portal for daily updates.
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Primrose School of Orland Park
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Orland Park offers a Balanced Learning® approach that blends teacher-directed and child-initiated activities to foster independence, curiosity, and academic readiness. Their curriculum includes character development, literacy, math, and arts, delivered by degreed educators in safe, nurturing classrooms. The facility features secure access, indoor and outdoor play areas, and a dedicated music and art room. Families appreciate the school's focus on whole-child development, nutritious meal plans, and strong community involvement, with many noting the attentive staff and well-maintained environment.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Hickory Hills, IL
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Hickory Hills, IL?
In Hickory Hills, the cost for full-time daycare varies based on the child's age and the type of center. For infants (under 2 years), you can expect to pay between $1,200 to $1,600 per month at a licensed daycare center. For toddlers (ages 2-3), costs typically range from $1,000 to $1,400 per month. Home-based daycare providers in the area may offer slightly lower rates, often between $800 to $1,200 monthly. These costs are influenced by factors like staff-to-child ratios, curriculum, and facility amenities. It's important to note that Illinois does not have a statewide price cap, so rates are set by individual providers. Many centers in Hickory Hills include meals and basic supplies in their tuition, but always confirm what is covered.
How do I verify that a daycare in Hickory Hills is properly licensed and has a good safety record?
All licensed daycare providers in Hickory Hills are regulated by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). You can verify a provider's license status and review their official compliance history by using the "Child Care Facility Search" tool on the DCFS website. This public database shows the license type, capacity, and any serious licensing violations or complaints. For a more local perspective, you can also contact the Hickory Hills City Hall or the local DCFS licensing office for the south suburban region. We recommend visiting any potential daycare in person to observe safety measures like secured entrances, clean facilities, and emergency plans. Asking for references from current parents in the community can also provide insight into the daycare's daily operations and reputation.
Are there any daycare centers in Hickory Hills that offer flexible or part-time schedules for parents with non-traditional work hours?
Yes, several daycare providers in Hickory Hills recognize the need for flexible childcare. While most traditional centers operate on a standard Monday-Friday, 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM schedule, some home-based daycares and specific centers may offer extended hours, evening care, or part-time options (e.g., 2-3 days a week). A few providers may also accommodate shift workers. Your best approach is to call centers directly and inquire about their flexibility. Additionally, using the Illinois DCFS search tool, you can filter for providers who list "non-traditional hours" as a service. Due to higher demand for standard hours, flexible spots can be limited, so it's advisable to start your search early and join waitlists if necessary.
What resources are available in Hickory Hills to help low-income families afford quality childcare?
Low-income families in Hickory Hills have several key resources. The primary program is the Illinois Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), which provides subsidies to eligible families. You can apply through the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS). The subsidy is paid directly to licensed providers who accept CCAP, and many daycares and home providers in Hickory Hills participate. Additionally, local organizations like the Community and Economic Development Association (CEDA) of Cook County, which serves the area, can provide application assistance and information. Some local churches and community centers may also offer sliding-scale tuition or scholarship programs. We recommend contacting the IDHS Family Community Resource Center for Cook County to determine your eligibility and get a list of CCAP-approved providers in Hickory Hills.
How long are waitlists for popular daycare centers in Hickory Hills, and when should I start looking for infant care?
Waitlists for infant care at highly-rated daycare centers in Hickory Hills can be significant, often ranging from 6 to 12 months, and sometimes longer. Due to strict state-mandated staff-to-infant ratios (1:4), infant spots are the most limited. We strongly recommend starting your search and getting on waitlists as early as possible—ideally during your second trimester of pregnancy, if not sooner. For toddler or preschool-age openings, waitlists may be shorter, typically 3 to 6 months. When contacting a center, ask specific questions about their waitlist process: Is there a fee? How often should you check in? Is the list prioritized for siblings? Exploring a mix of both daycare centers and licensed home providers can increase your chances of securing a spot in a timely manner.
Nearby Cities
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