The Best Daycare Centers in Latham, IL
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Latham. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Latham
The Goddard School of Springfield
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Springfield offers a comprehensive early childhood education program serving families throughout central Illinois, including Latham residents. Their FLEX Learning Program combines academic learning with play-based activities, focusing on literacy, STEM, art, and social development. All teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields and receive ongoing professional development. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor playgrounds designed for different age groups. They maintain low student-to-teacher ratios and provide daily communication to parents about their child's progress and activities.
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Kiddie Academy of Springfield
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Springfield provides educational childcare services to families in the Latham area through their Life Essentials® curriculum that emphasizes character development, social skills, and academic readiness. The academy features state-licensed teachers with CPR and First Aid certification, secure electronic entry systems, and comprehensive safety protocols. Their program includes technology-enhanced learning, music and movement activities, and nutritious meal programs. The facility maintains clean, modern classrooms with age-appropriate learning centers and outdoor play spaces designed for physical development and exploration.
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Little Scholars Learning Academy
Little Scholars Learning Academy
Little Scholars Learning Academy serves central Illinois communities including Latham with a play-based learning approach that incorporates structured academic preparation. Their curriculum focuses on developing literacy, mathematics, science, and social skills through hands-on activities and creative expression. The center employs qualified early childhood educators who participate in continuous training and maintain current certifications. Facilities include secure access control, monitored classrooms, age-specific learning environments, and outdoor play areas. They emphasize individualized attention with small class sizes and regular progress reports to keep parents informed about their child's development.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Latham, IL
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool for an infant or toddler in Latham, IL?
In Latham and the surrounding Logan County area, full-time childcare costs are generally more affordable than in larger Illinois cities but can vary based on the type of provider. For a licensed daycare center, you can expect to pay approximately $150 to $225 per week for an infant or toddler. In-home licensed family daycare providers often range from $120 to $180 per week. Preschool programs for 3-5 year-olds may have slightly lower weekly rates or offer part-time options. It's important to note that these rates often do not include registration fees, supply fees, or the cost of meals. Given Latham's small size, options are limited, so some parents commute to nearby towns like Atlanta or Lincoln for care, which may have comparable or slightly higher pricing.
How can I verify if a daycare provider in Latham is licensed and compliant with Illinois state regulations?
All licensed daycare providers in Illinois, including those in Latham, are regulated by the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). You can verify a provider's license status and review their official monitoring history, including any violations, through the DCFS "Child Care License Lookup" tool on their website. For Latham specifically, you can also contact the DCFS Springfield Regional Office for assistance. It's highly recommended to visit any potential provider in person and ask to see their current license, which must be posted. In-home providers caring for more than three children (unrelated) must be licensed. Always check for compliance with key regulations like staff-to-child ratios, background checks, and safe sleep practices for infants.
Are there any state or local subsidy programs to help with childcare costs for families in Latham?
Yes, the primary program is the Illinois Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), which provides subsidies to eligible low-income families, those in education/training programs, or those seeking employment. Eligibility is based on family size, income, and reason for care. You apply through the Logan County Department of Human Services (DHS), which serves Latham residents. Given the rural nature of the area, it's crucial to apply early as processing can take time and approved providers may have limited slots. Some local churches or community organizations in the region may also offer limited scholarships or sliding-scale fees, but these are not guaranteed. Contacting the Logan County DHS office in Lincoln is the best first step.
What is the availability of daycare slots like in Latham, and should I expect to join a waitlist?
Due to Latham's small population (under 400 residents), there are very few dedicated daycare facilities within the village limits itself. Most childcare is provided by licensed in-home family daycares, which have very limited capacity (often 8-12 children total). As a result, availability is extremely tight, and waitlists are common, especially for infant care. Many families rely on providers in neighboring communities such as Atlanta, Elkhart, or Lincoln. It is strongly advised to begin your search at least 3-6 months before you need care. Contacting providers directly, networking through local community Facebook groups (e.g., "Logan County, IL Chatter"), and asking for referrals from other parents are essential strategies in this area.
What are some key questions to ask a potential in-home daycare provider in a rural community like Latham?
Beyond standard questions about curriculum and daily routines, parents in Latham should ask specific questions suited to a rural home-based setting. Essential questions include: "What is your backup plan if you are sick or have an emergency, given there are fewer substitute providers nearby?" "How do you handle transportation or outings, and what is your policy on farm or animal safety if your property has livestock?" "Is your home equipped with a generator or plan for power outages common in rural areas?" Also, ask about their communication plan for weather-related closures (like snow days) and their protocol for severe weather sheltering. Finally, verify their water source (well or city) and their plan for safe drinking water and sanitation.