The Best Daycare Centers in Morton, IL
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Morton. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Morton
Morton Community Child Care Center
Independent Non-Profit Organization
Morton Community Child Care Center is a highly-regarded local non-profit facility known for its nurturing environment and play-based educational approach. The center emphasizes social-emotional development through structured activities and free play, with a low teacher-to-child ratio ensuring personalized attention. Staff members are CPR and First Aid certified, with many holding early childhood education degrees. The facility features secure access, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. Parents praise its strong community ties, transparent communication, and focus on preparing children for kindergarten through a balanced curriculum that includes literacy, math, and creative arts.
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KinderCare Learning Center
KinderCare Education LLC
This KinderCare location in nearby Peoria serves the Morton area with a research-based curriculum that focuses on whole-child development. The center offers programs like Phonics Adventures and STEM learning, tailored to different age groups. Teachers are trained in early childhood education and participate in ongoing professional development. Safety is prioritized with secured entrances, daily health checks, and adherence to strict licensing standards. The facility includes interactive learning centers, spacious playgrounds, and nutritious meal options. Parents highlight the center's engaging activities, experienced staff, and effective progress tracking through regular updates.
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The Goddard School
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Peoria is a top-rated franchise known for its FLEX Learning Program, which blends play-based and academic approaches to foster curiosity and independence. The curriculum includes language arts, science, and social skills, delivered by qualified teachers with background checks and ongoing training. The facility boasts secure, clean environments with age-specific classrooms, outdoor play spaces, and enrichment programs like yoga and music. Safety protocols include electronic entry systems and emergency preparedness drills. Parents appreciate the school's focus on individualized learning, strong parent-teacher communication, and inclusive atmosphere that supports diverse needs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Morton, IL
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Morton, IL?
In Morton, IL, the cost for full-time daycare varies based on the child's age and the type of facility. For center-based care, you can expect to pay approximately $180 to $250 per week for an infant or toddler. In-home daycare providers often range from $140 to $200 per week. These rates are generally lower than those in larger metropolitan areas like Chicago or Peoria but are consistent with the Tazewell County average. It's important to ask what is included in the weekly rate, such as meals, snacks, diapers, and curriculum materials. Additionally, some providers in Morton may offer sibling discounts. We recommend contacting several licensed providers directly for their most current pricing.
How can I verify if a daycare or preschool in Morton is properly licensed and check its compliance history?
All licensed daycare providers in Morton, IL, are regulated by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). You can verify a provider's license and review their official compliance history, including any violations, by using the DCFS "Child Care Facility Search" tool online. Simply visit the DCFS website and search by the facility name, city (Morton), or zip code. This public record will show the license status, capacity, ages served, and details of any licensing visits or complaints. For an added layer of local insight, you can also contact the Tazewell County Health Department or ask other Morton parents in community groups for their experiences with specific providers.
Are there any daycare centers in Morton that offer flexible or non-traditional hours for parents working shifts?
Finding childcare for non-traditional hours can be a challenge in Morton, as most licensed daycare centers operate on a standard schedule, typically from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. However, some in-home licensed daycare providers may offer more flexible hours, including early mornings, evenings, or occasional overnight care. Your best approach is to specifically inquire about shift coverage when calling providers. Additionally, you might explore regional options in nearby Peoria, which has a larger pool of providers, or consider forming a nanny share with other Morton families who have similar scheduling needs. Networking through local Facebook groups like "Morton, IL Community" can be a valuable way to find recommendations for flexible care.
What is the current waitlist situation for daycare centers in Morton, and how far in advance should I apply?
Due to high demand for quality childcare, many licensed daycare centers in Morton have waitlists, especially for infant rooms. It is not uncommon for popular centers to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months. We strongly recommend that expectant parents begin researching and touring facilities during their second trimester and get on waitlists as soon as possible. For toddler or preschool openings, wait times may be shorter, around 3-6 months. When you join a waitlist, ask specific questions: Is there a fee to join? How often is the list updated? What is the typical turnover rate? Keeping in touch with the center every few months can demonstrate your continued interest.
What local resources or programs in Morton, IL, can help me pay for childcare?
Several state and federal programs can assist eligible Morton families with childcare costs. The primary resource is the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), which provides subsidies based on family income, size, and need (such as employment or attending school). You can apply through the IDHS website or the local office in Peoria. Additionally, some Morton-area employers may offer Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs). For tax purposes, you may also qualify for the federal Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit. For direct local guidance, you can contact the Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency for our region, which is administered through Illinois Action for Children, for help navigating these options.