The Best Daycare Centers in Highland, IL
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Highland. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Highland
The Goddard School of Highland
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Highland offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic readiness with social-emotional development. Their play-based curriculum includes STEAM learning, language arts, and character development. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. All teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields and receive ongoing professional development. The school emphasizes individualized learning plans and maintains low student-teacher ratios for personalized attention.
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Kiddie Academy of Highland
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Highland provides comprehensive educational childcare with their Life Essentials® curriculum that focuses on character development, STEM education, and literacy. The academy features modern security systems including electronic entry and surveillance cameras. Their program includes nutritious meal plans, regular parent communication through mobile apps, and developmentally appropriate learning centers. Certified teachers implement project-based learning and maintain detailed progress reports. The facility includes dedicated infant rooms, interactive playgrounds, and technology-enhanced learning spaces for older children.
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Highland Early Learning Center
Independent Community Center
Highland Early Learning Center is a locally-owned childcare facility serving the Highland community with a balanced approach to early education. Their curriculum combines structured academic preparation with creative play and social development. The center features secure facilities with coded entry systems, age-separated playgrounds, and bright, engaging classrooms. Experienced educators focus on school readiness skills while maintaining warm, nurturing environments. The program includes regular developmental assessments, parent-teacher conferences, and enrichment activities like music and movement. Their long-standing reputation in the community reflects consistent quality care and strong family partnerships.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Highland, IL
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Highland, IL?
In Highland, IL, the cost of full-time daycare varies based on the child's age and the type of facility. For center-based care, you can expect to pay between $225 to $300 per week for an infant, and slightly less, around $200 to $275 per week, for a toddler. In-home daycare providers often charge $150 to $225 per week. These rates are generally in line with the Madison County average but can be lower than those in the St. Louis metro area. It's important to ask what is included in the weekly rate, such as meals, snacks, diapers, and curriculum materials. Financial assistance may be available through the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) for eligible families.
How do I verify that a daycare or preschool in Highland is properly licensed and what are the key state regulations I should know?
All licensed daycare centers and home providers in Illinois are regulated by the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). You can verify a provider's license status, view inspection reports, and check for any violations by using the "Child Care Facility Search" tool on the Illinois DCFS website. Key regulations for Highland providers 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. Licensed facilities in Highland must also meet specific standards for safe sleep practices (especially for infants), outdoor play space, and nutrition. Always look for the DCFS license displayed at the facility.
Are waitlists common for daycare centers in Highland, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, waitlists are common, especially for infant care slots at highly-regarded centers and preschools in Highland. Due to limited capacity and high demand, it is strongly recommended that parents begin their search and tour facilities at least 6 to 9 months before their needed start date. For popular programs or if you need care for an infant, starting a year in advance is not unusual. When touring, ask specifically about the current waitlist length, any non-refundable deposit to hold a spot, and how often the list is updated. Some in-home providers may have shorter wait times, but it's still wise to plan ahead.
What are some of the main options for childcare in Highland besides traditional daycare centers?
Highland offers several alternatives to large daycare centers. Many families utilize licensed family child care homes, which provide a smaller, home-like setting often with mixed-age groups. The Highland area also has church-affiliated preschools and daycare programs (like those at St. Paul Catholic Church or Evangelical United Church of Christ) that may offer part-day preschool options for ages 3-5. For more flexible or occasional care, you can explore networks like Care.com or local Facebook groups (e.g., "Highland, IL Community Board") to find registered sitters or nanny shares. Additionally, the Highland School District offers early childhood programs for which some families may qualify.
What resources are available in Highland to help me find and compare local childcare options?
The primary local resource is the Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency for the region, which is **Bond County Child Care Connection**. They serve Madison County (which includes Highland) and provide free referrals, information on licensing, and guidance on financial assistance. You can contact them via phone or their website. Additionally, the **Highland Public Library** may have community bulletin boards with provider flyers. For direct comparisons, online platforms like Winnie.com or Yelp can have parent reviews for local centers. Finally, don't underestimate word-of-mouth; asking for recommendations in local parent groups on social media or at community hubs like the Splash City Water Park or the library can yield valuable, firsthand insights.