The Best Daycare Centers in North Chicago, IL
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in North Chicago. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in North Chicago
Bright Horizons at North Chicago
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at North Chicago offers a comprehensive early education program with a research-based curriculum that emphasizes STEAM learning, literacy development, and social-emotional growth. The center features highly qualified teachers with early childhood education degrees and maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios. Facilities include secure, age-appropriate classrooms, outdoor playgrounds, and dedicated learning centers. The center serves primarily Abbott Laboratories employees and community families, offering flexible scheduling and nutritious meal programs. Safety protocols include secure entry systems, comprehensive background checks, and regular safety drills.
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The Goddard School of Gurnee
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Gurnee serves families throughout Lake County including North Chicago with its F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic readiness with play-based learning. The center features state-certified teachers, low student-teacher ratios, and modern security systems including keypad entry and surveillance. Curriculum focuses on literacy, mathematics, science, and social studies through hands-on activities. The facility includes age-specific playgrounds, indoor gymnasium, and technology-enhanced classrooms. Parent communication includes daily reports and regular progress updates through a proprietary app.
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Sunshine & Rainbows Learning Center
Independent
Sunshine & Rainbows Learning Center provides comprehensive childcare services to families throughout Lake County, including North Chicago residents. The center offers a balanced curriculum that combines Montessori-inspired activities with structured academic preparation. Features include certified early childhood educators, small class sizes, and individualized learning plans. The facility maintains rigorous safety standards with secured entrances, comprehensive background checks, and regular health inspections. Programs emphasize character development, bilingual exposure, and community involvement. The center provides nutritious meals and offers flexible scheduling options for working families.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in North Chicago, IL
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in North Chicago, IL, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In North Chicago, the cost of full-time daycare or preschool can vary significantly based on the type of facility and the child's age. On average, parents can expect to pay between $800 to $1,400 per month for an infant or toddler at a licensed center. Home-based daycare options may be slightly less, ranging from $600 to $1,000 monthly. For preschool-age children, costs often align with the lower end of that range. It's important to note that North Chicago is part of Lake County, and several financial assistance options are available. The Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) is the primary resource for eligible families. Additionally, local organizations like the Lake County Community Action Project may offer support. Some centers also offer sliding scale fees based on income. We recommend contacting providers directly for precise rates and inquiring about their process for CCAP acceptance.
How can I verify the licensing and inspection history of a daycare provider in North Chicago?
All licensed daycare providers in Illinois, including those in North Chicago, are regulated by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). To verify a provider's license and review their compliance history, you should use the DCFS "Child Care Facility Search" tool available on their official website. This public database allows you to search by facility name, city, or zip code (60064, 60085 for North Chicago). The report will show the license status, capacity, ages served, and any recent licensing violations or substantiated complaints. You can also call the DCFS Day Care Information Line at 1-877-746-0829. We strongly recommend conducting this check for any center or home-based provider you are considering, as it is the most reliable way to ensure they meet state health, safety, and staffing standards.
Are there any daycare centers in North Chicago that offer extended hours or weekend care to accommodate shift workers at the local industrial and healthcare employers?
Yes, recognizing the significant number of parents working at the Great Lakes Naval Station, the AbbVie campus, and other local healthcare facilities with non-traditional hours, several daycare providers in North Chicago offer extended or flexible hours. Some licensed centers and many licensed home daycares may offer care as early as 6:00 AM and as late as 6:30 PM or later. While weekend care is less common, a few home-based providers specifically advertise weekend availability. Your best strategy is to use the DCFS search tool and filter for facilities that list "Non-Traditional Hours" as a service option. Additionally, contacting the North Chicago Chamber of Commerce or local parent groups on social media can yield recommendations for providers known to accommodate shift workers.
What is the current waitlist situation for infant daycare spots in North Chicago, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Due to high demand and strict infant-to-caregiver ratios mandated by Illinois law, waitlists for infant daycare (children under 2 years old) in North Chicago can be lengthy. It is not uncommon for popular centers, especially those affiliated with major employers or offering high-quality ratings, to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months or more. For home-based daycares, waitlists may be shorter but can still be several months. We strongly advise parents to begin their search and get on waitlists as soon as possible, ideally during the second trimester of pregnancy or even earlier. When touring facilities, be sure to ask about their specific waitlist process, any associated fees to hold a spot, and how often they update families on their position.
Beyond state licensing, are there quality indicators or local resources I should use to evaluate daycare options in North Chicago?
Absolutely. While DCFS licensing ensures basic health and safety, several other indicators can help you assess quality. First, look for providers accredited by national organizations like the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) or rated through Illinois' voluntary Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS), known as ExceleRate Illinois. A Silver, Gold, or Platinum circle of quality rating is a strong sign. Locally, consider the provider's proximity and relationship with resources like the North Chicago Public Library's early literacy programs or the Green Bay Early Childhood Center. You can also contact the Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency for Lake County, which is YWCA Metropolitan Chicago. They offer free referrals, quality information, and guidance to parents. Finally, always schedule an in-person tour, observe caregiver-child interactions, and ask for references from current parents.
Nearby Cities
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