The Best Daycare Centers in Lockport, IL
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Lockport. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Lockport
The Goddard School of Lockport
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Lockport offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic readiness with social development. Their play-based curriculum includes STEAM learning, language arts, and character development. Features state-certified teachers with bachelor's or master's degrees, secure keypad entry, live streaming for parents, and age-appropriate playgrounds. The center emphasizes individualized learning plans and maintains low student-to-teacher ratios.
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Kiddie Academy of Lockport
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Lockport provides comprehensive educational childcare with their Life Essentials® curriculum that focuses on character development, STEM activities, and literacy. The academy features secure entry systems, daily health screenings, and sanitization protocols. Their programs include music and movement, technology integration, and hands-on learning experiences. Teachers receive ongoing professional development and the center maintains NAEYC-aligned standards with structured daily schedules that balance learning and play.
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Bright Horizons at New Lenox
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at New Lenox serves the Lockport area with their World at Their Fingertips curriculum that emphasizes emergent learning and developmentally appropriate practices. The center features accredited early childhood educators, enhanced safety protocols including secured facilities, and comprehensive health and wellness programs. Their approach includes literacy-rich environments, STEAM learning labs, and outdoor classrooms. The center offers flexible scheduling and maintains strong parent partnerships through regular communication and developmental progress reports.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Lockport, IL
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Lockport, IL?
In Lockport, the cost of full-time daycare varies based on the type of facility and the child's age. For center-based care, infant care (6 weeks to 15 months) typically ranges from $1,400 to $1,800 per month, while toddler care (15 months to 3 years) often costs between $1,200 and $1,600 per month. Licensed home-based daycare in the area can be slightly more affordable, averaging $900 to $1,300 monthly. These rates are influenced by factors like staff-to-child ratios, curriculum offerings, and facility amenities. It's important to note that costs in Will County are generally lower than in nearby Chicago but have been rising. Many facilities offer sibling discounts, and 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 in Lockport is properly licensed and what are the key state regulations I should know?
All licensed daycare providers in Lockport must be registered with the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). You can verify a provider's license and review any history of violations by using the DCFS "Child Care Facility Look-Up" tool online. Key Illinois regulations include staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants, 1:5 for toddlers), mandatory background checks for all staff, and annual health and safety training. Licensed providers must also meet specific standards for safe sleep practices (especially for infants), nutrition, and facility safety. The Lockport Fire Department and local health department conduct regular inspections. Always ask to see a provider's current license and feel free to inquire about their latest inspection report.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Lockport, and when should I start looking for a spot?
Yes, waitlists are common for many of the more sought-after daycare centers and preschools in Lockport, especially for infant rooms which have the strictest staff-to-child ratios. It is strongly recommended that expecting parents begin researching and touring facilities during their second trimester, and ideally get on a waitlist 6 to 12 months before their needed start date. For toddler or preschool openings, a 3-6 month lead time is often necessary. Some popular centers affiliated with local schools or churches may have even longer lists. When contacting providers, ask specific questions about their waitlist process, any associated fees, and how often they update families on their position.
What types of childcare options are most commonly available in Lockport beyond traditional daycare centers?
Lockport offers a variety of childcare options to suit different family needs. Beyond licensed daycare centers, families can consider: - **Licensed Family Child Care Homes:** Smaller, home-based settings often offering more flexible hours and mixed-age groups. - **Preschools:** Many local churches, community organizations, and private schools offer part-day or full-day preschool programs for children ages 3-5, which may focus on school readiness. - **Nanny Shares or In-Home Care:** Some families in Lockport's residential neighborhoods opt to share a nanny or hire an individual caregiver. - **Before & After-School Care:** Offered by Lockport School District 91 and District 205, as well as local park districts (like the Lockport Township Park District) and some daycare centers for school-age children. Exploring the Lockport Area Parents Facebook group or local community boards can be a good way to learn about smaller, licensed home providers.
Does the Lockport area offer any specialized childcare programs, such as for children with special needs or extended-hour care for shift workers?
While specialized resources are more concentrated in larger nearby cities like Joliet or Naperville, some options exist in and around Lockport. A few daycare centers in the area have staff trained in inclusive practices and may accommodate children with mild to moderate special needs, though it's crucial to discuss your child's Individualized Education Program (IEP) or needs directly with the director. For extended-hour or non-traditional schedule care, your best bet is licensed family child care homes, as they often provide more flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, to accommodate healthcare, manufacturing, or shift workers common in the Will County area. Additionally, the **Lockport Township Park District** offers school's-out day camps and some evening programming. For more comprehensive special needs support, families often connect with the **Will County Child and Family Connections** office, which can provide referrals and information about early intervention services.
Childcare Insights for Lockport
As the school year winds down, many parents in Lockport begin the important search for reliable summer childcare. Finding the right "summer childcare near me" is about more than just filling the hours; it’s about securing a safe, engaging, and enriching environment for your children while you work or manage other responsibilities. In our community, you have several wonderful options to consider, each with its own unique benefits for families right here in Lockport, Illinois.
One of the first places many local parents look is to the Lockport Township Park District. They offer fantastic summer day camps that are a staple of the community. These programs often combine recreational activities, sports, arts and crafts, and even field trips, providing a structured yet fun summer experience. The advantage here is the familiarity of local parks and facilities, and the chance for your child to make friends with others from the same schools and neighborhoods. It’s wise to register early, as these popular camps can fill up quickly once the spring season arrives. Another excellent local resource is the Lockport Public Library, which hosts a robust summer reading program and various weekly events. While not full-day care, these free activities can be a perfect complement to other arrangements, keeping young minds active and engaged.
For more traditional daycare settings, Lockport has a number of licensed childcare centers and home-based providers that offer summer programs. These can be ideal for parents who need consistent, full-day care. When exploring these options, consider visiting in person. This allows you to get a feel for the environment, meet the staff who will be caring for your child, and ask specific questions about their summer curriculum. Do they incorporate outdoor play at a local park? Do they plan any special themed weeks or local excursions? Given our warm Illinois summers, inquire about water play policies and sun safety. A short drive around Lockport can often reveal smaller, home-based daycares that provide a cozy, family-like atmosphere, which some children prefer.
Don’t overlook the possibility of a summer nanny or babysitter, perhaps a responsible high school or college student from the area. This option provides maximum flexibility and one-on-one care in your own home. You might find a great candidate by asking for referrals within local parent networks on social media or through connections at your child’s school. This arrangement can be particularly helpful for families with irregular schedules or multiple children of different ages.
Ultimately, the best summer childcare in Lockport is one that aligns with your child’s personality and your family’s logistical needs. Start your search now to ensure you have the widest selection. Talk to other parents at Heritage Falls or while watching a game at Dellwood Park; personal recommendations are invaluable. By choosing a local provider, you give your child the opportunity to enjoy their summer within the community they know, creating seasonal memories right here in Lockport while giving you the peace of mind you deserve.