The Best Daycare Centers in Lebanon, IL
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Lebanon. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Lebanon
Bright Horizons at O'Fallon
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at O'Fallon is a highly-regarded early education center located just 10 minutes from Lebanon. They implement the World at Their Fingertips curriculum, which emphasizes hands-on learning, literacy development, and STEM activities. The center features state-of-the-art security systems including keypad entry and comprehensive background checks for all staff. Teachers hold early childhood education degrees and receive ongoing professional development. The facility includes age-appropriate outdoor playgrounds, dedicated art studios, and technology-enhanced classrooms. Parents consistently praise the center's communication through daily reports and the nurturing environment that supports social-emotional development.
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The Goddard School of O'Fallon
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of O'Fallon serves the Lebanon community with its F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic preparation with play-based learning. The school maintains low student-teacher ratios and employs degreed early childhood educators. Safety features include secured entry systems, comprehensive video monitoring, and strict health protocols. The curriculum incorporates language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies through thematic units. The facility features multiple playgrounds, a dedicated music room, and modern classroom technology. Parents highlight the school's excellent communication, nutritious meal program, and strong focus on kindergarten readiness skills.
Daycare Services:
Little Saints Learning Center
Little Saints Education Group
Little Saints Learning Center in nearby Belleville serves families throughout the Lebanon area with a comprehensive early childhood program rooted in developmental appropriate practices. The center utilizes Creative Curriculum alongside faith-based values, focusing on whole-child development. Safety is prioritized with secure entry systems, comprehensive staff training, and regular safety drills. The teaching staff includes certified early childhood educators with specialized training in literacy development and social-emotional learning. The facility features modern classrooms, age-appropriate learning centers, and secure outdoor play areas. Parents consistently praise the center's family-like atmosphere, experienced leadership, and strong emphasis on character development alongside academic preparation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Lebanon, IL
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Lebanon, Illinois, and how can I verify a facility's license?
In Lebanon, Illinois, all daycare centers and home daycare providers caring for more than three children must be licensed by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). DCFS sets strict standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, staff qualifications (including background checks and training), and facility safety. To verify a provider's license status, you can use the DCFS "Child Care Facility Look-Up" tool on their official website. You can also call the DCFS licensing representative for the Metro-East region. It's highly recommended to physically visit any potential daycare and ask to see their current license, which should be posted. Lebanon also has several licensed-exempt providers, typically religious institutions, but they must still meet certain health and safety standards.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Lebanon, IL, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Lebanon and the surrounding St. Clair 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 facility's amenities, curriculum, and whether it's a center or a licensed home daycare. 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 providers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's always worth asking directly.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Lebanon, and what can I do to secure a spot for my child?
Waitlists for daycare centers in Lebanon, especially for infants, can be significant, often ranging from 3 to 9 months. High-quality centers with strong reputations may have even longer waits. To secure a spot, it's advisable to begin your search and get on lists as early as possible during pregnancy. Contact multiple centers to inquire about their specific waitlist procedures—some require a non-refundable deposit to hold a spot, while others simply add you to a list. Don't overlook licensed family child care homes, which often have more immediate availability and can provide excellent care. Being flexible with your start date can also improve your chances.
Are there any unique childcare options or programs in Lebanon that cater to parents with non-traditional work hours?
Finding childcare for evenings, overnight, or weekend shifts can be challenging in a smaller community like Lebanon. While most traditional centers operate Monday-Friday from approximately 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM, there are limited options for non-traditional hours. Your best bet is to seek out licensed family child care providers who may offer more flexible or customized hours. Some providers in the area may accommodate shift workers from nearby employers like the distribution centers in the region or healthcare workers from surrounding hospitals. It requires diligent searching, networking through local parent groups on social media, and direct inquiries. The "Child Care Resource and Referral" service for Southern Illinois (CCR&R) can also help identify providers with flexible schedules.
What resources are available in Lebanon to help me evaluate and choose a quality daycare, beyond just checking the license?
Beyond licensing, parents in Lebanon have several resources. First, utilize Illinois' **Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS)**, called **ExceleRate Illinois**. Programs that participate receive a rating (Circle of Quality) from "Licensed" to "Gold," helping you identify programs committed to higher standards. Second, schedule in-person tours and ask for references from current parents. Third, connect with local networks like the **Lebanon Community Unit School District #9** or the **Lebanon Public Library** for recommendations. Finally, the **Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) Agency for Southern Illinois** offers free counseling to parents, providing lists of licensed providers, tips on what to look for during a visit, and questions to ask about curriculum, safety, and communication.
Nearby Cities
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