The Best Daycare Centers in Lexington, IL
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Lexington. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Lexington
The Goddard School of Normal
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Normal offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic readiness with social development. Their state-licensed teachers hold degrees in early childhood education and maintain low student-teacher ratios. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and modern classrooms with interactive technology. They emphasize STEAM learning, foreign language exposure, and character development through structured play and hands-on activities. The school maintains rigorous health and safety protocols with daily cleanliness checks and comprehensive staff training.
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Bright Horizons at State Farm Bloomington
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at State Farm Bloomington provides high-quality early education with their World at Their Fingertips curriculum that emphasizes literacy, mathematics, science, and creative arts. The center features secure access controls, dedicated age-based learning environments, and outdoor play spaces designed for different developmental stages. Their highly qualified teachers typically hold bachelor's degrees in education and receive ongoing professional development. The program focuses on school readiness through project-based learning and social-emotional development. They maintain excellent health and safety standards with comprehensive background checks, regular safety drills, and nutritious meal programs.
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Little Jewels Learning Center
Little Jewels Learning Center
Little Jewels Learning Center offers a comprehensive early childhood program with a balanced approach to education and care. Their curriculum focuses on developmental milestones through structured learning centers, creative play, and hands-on activities. The center maintains small class sizes with qualified teachers who implement age-appropriate lesson plans covering literacy, math, science, and social skills. The facility includes secure entry systems, monitored classrooms, and safe outdoor play areas. They emphasize individualized attention and regular communication with parents through daily reports and parent-teacher conferences. The center is known for its nurturing environment and strong focus on building foundational skills for school success.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Lexington, IL
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Lexington, IL, and how can I verify a facility is in good standing?
In Lexington, Illinois, all daycare centers and home-based providers caring for more than three children unrelated to them must be licensed by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). DCFS sets strict standards for staff-to-child ratios, staff qualifications (including background checks and training in CPR/First Aid), health and safety protocols, and facility requirements. To verify a provider's license and compliance history, you can use the DCFS "Child Care Facility Search" tool on their official website. This allows you to see the license status, any recent licensing violations, and the results of their last inspection. For very small, license-exempt home care (3 or fewer children), it's crucial to conduct your own thorough vetting, as they are not subject to the same state oversight.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Lexington, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Lexington and the surrounding McLean County area, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $175 to $250 per week. For toddlers, costs are slightly lower, averaging $150 to $225 per week. These rates are generally more affordable than in larger Illinois cities like Chicago or Peoria but can vary based on the type of facility (center-based vs. home-based) and the specific programs offered. For financial assistance, Illinois offers the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) for eligible families based on income, family size, and reason for care (work, school, etc.). Applications are processed through the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS). Additionally, local organizations like the McLean County United Way may have resources or connections to sliding-scale programs.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Lexington, and when should I start looking for care?
Due to the limited number of dedicated daycare centers in a smaller community like Lexington, waitlists can be significant, especially for infant care. It is not uncommon for popular centers to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months. For this reason, it is highly recommended that expecting parents or families planning a move begin their search as early as possible—ideally during the second trimester of pregnancy or at least 6-9 months before the desired start date. When contacting providers, be sure to ask about their specific waitlist process, any fees to join the list, and how often they update families on their position.
What are the main types of childcare options available specifically within the Lexington city limits?
Within Lexington, parents will primarily find two types of licensed childcare options. The first is licensed home daycares, which are private residences where a provider cares for a small group of children, often offering a more home-like environment. The second is center-based care, such as the Lexington Head Start program, which provides federally funded early childhood education for income-eligible families. For school-age children, the Lexington Elementary School may offer before/after-school programs. Due to the town's size, many families also look to neighboring communities like Bloomington-Normal for larger daycare centers or preschools, which involves a commute.
Are there any state or local programs in Illinois that offer free or low-cost preschool for 3- and 4-year-olds in the Lexington area?
Yes, the primary program is the state-funded Preschool for All program, administered through the local school district or a partner agency. In the Lexington area, this is often provided through the Lexington Head Start program or potentially through the Lexington Elementary School District. These programs are designed for 3- and 4-year-olds, with priority given to children who may be at risk of academic challenges or from families meeting certain income guidelines. They provide comprehensive early childhood education at little to no cost. Availability can be limited, so contacting Lexington CUSD #7 directly or the Head Start provider early is essential to learn about eligibility, application timelines, and any open slots for community peers who do not meet the at-risk criteria.