The Best Daycare Centers in Montgomery, IL
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Montgomery. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Montgomery
The Goddard School of Aurora
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Aurora serves Montgomery families with a comprehensive F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic readiness with social-emotional development. Their play-based curriculum includes STEAM learning, language arts, and character development. Features state-certified teachers with early childhood education degrees, secure keypad entry systems, live streaming for parents, and age-appropriate playgrounds. Maintains low student-teacher ratios and offers enrichment programs including yoga, music, and Spanish. Accredited and known for strong parent communication through daily activity reports and regular conferences.
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Kiddie Academy of Oswego
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Oswego serves Montgomery area with their Life Essentials® curriculum that focuses on character development, STEM learning, and school readiness. Features dedicated learning centers for math, science, literacy, and dramatic play. Staff includes degreed teachers with ongoing professional development in early childhood education. Security includes electronic entry systems, comprehensive background checks, and regular safety drills. Offers nutritious meals and snacks through their included meal program. Parents receive real-time updates through the Academy Link® communication system with photos and daily reports of child's activities and developmental progress.
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Bright Horizons at Fox Valley
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Fox Valley serves Montgomery families with their World at Their Fingers® curriculum emphasizing emergent, project-based learning and development of 21st century skills. Features NAEYC-accredited programs with degreed teachers and low child-to-teacher ratios. Environment includes dedicated art studios, STEM labs, and literacy-rich classrooms. Security features include secured entry, comprehensive emergency preparedness, and health screening protocols. Offers enrichment programs in music, movement, and gardening. Known for strong parent partnerships through regular portfolio assessments, family conferences, and the MyBrightDay™ app for real-time updates on child's day.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Montgomery, IL
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Montgomery, IL, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Montgomery, IL, all daycare centers and licensed home daycares must be licensed by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). DCFS sets strict standards for staff-to-child ratios, staff background checks, health and safety protocols, staff training (including CPR and First Aid), and facility inspections. To verify a provider's license and compliance history, you can use the DCFS Child Care Facility Search tool online. It's highly recommended to check this database, as it will show the license status, any recent violations, and the results of mandatory annual unannounced inspections. You can also contact the DCFS Aurora Regional Office, which serves Kendall County, for additional information.
What is the average cost of full-time infant daycare in Montgomery, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Montgomery and the surrounding Fox Valley area, the average cost for full-time infant daycare typically ranges from $1,200 to $1,600 per month. Prices can vary based on the type of center (corporate chain vs. private), specific amenities offered, and the staff-to-child ratio. 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, some local centers may offer sibling discounts or scholarships. It's also worth checking with your employer, as some companies in the nearby Aurora/Naperville corridor offer Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) or partnership discounts with specific providers.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Montgomery, and when should I start looking for a spot?
Due to high demand in the growing Montgomery and greater Fox Valley region, waitlists for infant and toddler rooms at highly-rated centers can be significant, often ranging from 6 to 12 months. It is strongly advised to begin your search and get on waitlists as early as your second trimester of pregnancy. For preschool-age slots (3-5 years), waitlists may be shorter, around 3-6 months. When contacting centers, ask specific questions about their waitlist process: Is there a fee to join? How often do they update families on their position? Do they offer guaranteed enrollment for siblings of current students? Exploring options in neighboring communities like Oswego or Aurora may provide more immediate availability.
What are the options for drop-in or part-time childcare in Montgomery for parents with irregular schedules?
While traditional daycare centers in Montgomery often require set, full-time or part-time weekly schedules, there are a few alternatives for irregular care needs. Some licensed home daycares may offer more flexible, drop-in arrangements based on availability. Additionally, you can utilize reputable babysitting networks and apps that vet caregivers, though these are typically in-home services. For occasional or backup care, the nearest dedicated drop-in childcare centers are located in larger neighboring cities like Naperville or Aurora. Another option is to inquire at local churches or community centers in Montgomery, as some may host parent's day out programs or have partnerships with flexible caregivers. Planning ahead is crucial due to limited on-demand options within the city itself.
Are there any daycare centers in Montgomery that offer unique educational philosophies or specialized programs?
Yes, Montgomery offers a mix of traditional and specialized childcare approaches. You can find centers that incorporate elements of play-based learning, Montessori, or faith-based curricula (often at churches). Some centers have strong emphasis on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) activities or outdoor/nature-based learning, leveraging local parks and the Fox River environment. For more specialized programs like language immersion (e.g., Spanish), you would likely need to look at centers in nearby Aurora or Naperville. When touring facilities in Montgomery, ask specifically about their daily curriculum, how they incorporate Illinois Early Learning and Development Standards, and if they have any unique partnerships or focus areas, such as music, art, or physical fitness programs.
Childcare Insights for Montgomery
If you're a parent in Montgomery, Illinois, typing "daycare cost near me" into a search bar, you're likely navigating the important and often complex journey of finding quality childcare. Understanding the landscape of daycare costs in our specific community is the first step toward making a confident decision for your family. In Montgomery and the surrounding Fox Valley area, daycare costs can vary significantly based on several key factors, but having local insight can help you budget and plan effectively.
Generally, for center-based care in Montgomery, you can expect a range that often falls between $250 and $350 per week for a full-time infant spot. Toddler and preschool-age care typically becomes slightly more affordable, often ranging from $200 to $300 weekly. These figures are influenced by the program's amenities, curriculum, staff-to-child ratios, and whether they provide essentials like meals and diapers. It's important to note that home-based daycare providers, which are licensed and often offer a smaller, family-like setting, can sometimes provide a more cost-effective option, potentially ranging from $150 to $250 per week for full-time care. These providers are a vital part of Montgomery's childcare network and can offer wonderful, personalized environments.
When evaluating costs, look beyond the weekly tuition. Many facilities in our area have additional fees that impact the annual total. It's common to encounter registration or enrollment fees, which can be a one-time charge of $50 to $150. Some centers also have annual supply or activity fees. Always ask for a complete written breakdown of all potential costs during your tours. A practical tip for Montgomery parents is to inquire about the center's schedule regarding local school districts, like Oswego Community Unit School District 308. Many daycare centers follow a similar calendar, with closures for major holidays, teacher institute days, and possibly summer breaks for preschool programs, which may affect your need for backup care.
Navigating affordability is a common concern. Illinois offers several resources to assist families. The Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) provides financial support to eligible families, and applying through the Illinois Department of Human Services is a crucial step for many. Additionally, don't hesitate to ask daycare directors if they offer any sibling discounts or if they have a waitlist policy—sometimes getting on a list early for an infant room can secure a better rate. As you visit options, from centers near Montgomery's downtown to those in newer subdivisions, balance cost with your observations. Notice the cleanliness, the engagement of the staff, and the happiness of the children. The true value of care in Montgomery isn't just in the weekly rate, but in the peace of mind that comes from knowing your child is safe, nurtured, and thriving in a supportive environment right here in our community.