The Best Daycare Centers in Manteno, IL
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Manteno. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Manteno
Kiddie Academy of Bourbonnais
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Bourbonnais provides comprehensive educational childcare with their proprietary Life Essentials® curriculum that focuses on character development, literacy, STEM, and social-emotional learning. The center features highly qualified teachers with early childhood education credentials, secure keypad entry systems, and age-appropriate learning environments. Their program includes nutritious meals, regular parent communication through an app, and developmentally appropriate play spaces. Serving the Manteno area with a strong reputation for academic preparation and quality care.
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The Goddard School of Frankfort
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Frankfort offers a play-based learning approach through their F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) program that balances academic readiness with social development. Features include state-certified teachers, low student-teacher ratios, secure facilities with surveillance systems, and modern classrooms with interactive technology. The curriculum emphasizes literacy, mathematics, science, and creative arts while promoting independence and problem-solving skills. Many families from Manteno commute to this highly-regarded facility for its comprehensive early childhood education programs.
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Primrose School of Frankfort
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Frankfort operates with the exclusive Balanced Learning® approach that combines purposeful play with nurturing guidance from degreed teachers. The curriculum focuses on whole-child development through literacy-rich environments, hands-on STEM activities, character development programs, and foreign language exposure. The facility features secure entry systems, commercial-grade kitchens providing balanced meals, age-appropriate playgrounds, and dedicated music and art spaces. Serves Manteno families seeking a structured yet nurturing environment with strong academic foundations and exceptional safety protocols.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Manteno, IL
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Manteno, IL?
In Manteno, the cost for full-time daycare varies based on the child's age and the type of facility. For infants (under 2 years), you can expect to pay between $225 and $300 per week at a licensed daycare center. For toddlers (ages 2-3), weekly rates typically range from $200 to $275. In-home licensed daycare providers in the area often charge slightly less, approximately $175 to $250 per week. These costs are generally lower than those in larger Chicago metro suburbs but have been rising. It's important to ask what is included in the tuition, such as meals, snacks, and curriculum materials. Some centers may offer sibling discounts.
How can I verify the licensing and inspection history of a daycare provider in Manteno?
All licensed daycare providers in Manteno are regulated by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). You can verify a provider's license and view their official compliance history by using the "Child Care Facility Search" tool on the DCFS website. Simply enter the provider's name or location. This report will show the license status, capacity, any serious licensing violations, and the dates of recent inspections. You can also contact the DCFS Licensing Representative for the Kankakee County region for additional information. Always ask the provider directly for their license number and their most recent inspection report.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Manteno, and how should I plan ahead?
Yes, waitlists are common for infant and toddler spots at many of the popular licensed daycare centers in Manteno, especially for children under 2. It is not unusual for waitlists to be 3 to 9 months long. To plan ahead, begin your search and schedule tours during your second trimester of pregnancy. When touring, ask specifically about the current waitlist length, the deposit policy to hold a spot (which is often non-refundable), and how often they update families on their position. Also consider exploring licensed home daycares, which may have more immediate availability and offer a smaller setting.
What are some of the local resources for finding and comparing childcare options in Manteno?
A key local resource is the Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency for the region, which is **Illinois Action for Children**. They maintain a database of licensed providers in Kankakee County, including Manteno, and offer free referral services to help parents find care that matches their needs. You can search their online database or speak with a referral specialist. Additionally, the **Manteno Community Bulletin Board** on Facebook and other local parent groups are often used by families to share personal recommendations and experiences with specific providers, which can provide valuable, real-world insights.
What are the options for part-time or non-traditional hour childcare in Manteno for shift workers?
Finding part-time or evening/weekend care in Manteno can be challenging, as most traditional centers operate on a standard Monday-Friday, 6:30 am to 6:00 pm schedule. Your best options are to inquire with licensed home daycare providers, as they may offer more flexible hours or part-time slots based on their own availability. Some centers may offer part-time preschool programs for children 3+, but infant and toddler part-time care is rare. For true non-traditional hours (e.g., overnight or weekend shifts), you may need to look into hiring a private nanny or babysitter. Networking through local community groups can help you connect with other shift-working parents who may share recommendations or resources.