The Best Daycare Centers in Round Lake, IL
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Round Lake. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Round Lake
The Goddard School of Round Lake
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Round Lake offers a comprehensive F.L.E.X. (Fun Learning Experience) curriculum that balances academic preparation with social-emotional development. Their play-based learning approach is enhanced by STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) activities tailored to each age group. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor playgrounds. All lead teachers hold bachelor's degrees in education or related fields, and the center maintains low student-to-teacher ratios. Parents consistently praise the school's communication through daily reports and the engaging, developmentally appropriate activities.
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Sunshine Early Learning Center
Independent
Sunshine Early Learning Center provides a nurturing environment with a strong focus on early literacy and social development. Their curriculum incorporates Creative Curriculum elements with hands-on learning centers and structured play. The center features secure facilities with coded entry, multiple age-appropriate playgrounds, and dedicated infant rooms with separate sleeping areas. Staff members are CPR and First Aid certified, with many holding Child Development Associate credentials. Parents highlight the center's family-like atmosphere, consistent staff retention, and excellent preparation for kindergarten transition.
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Kiddie Academy of Grayslake
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Located in nearby Grayslake and serving the Round Lake area, Kiddie Academy offers their proprietary Life Essentials curriculum that emphasizes character development alongside academic readiness. The program includes Spanish language exposure, technology integration, and community awareness activities. The modern facility features security cameras, keypad entry, and spacious classrooms with natural lighting. Teachers receive ongoing professional development in early childhood education best practices. Parents consistently commend the academy's structured yet flexible approach, healthy meal program, and strong emphasis on building independence and social skills.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Round Lake, IL
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Round Lake, Illinois?
In Round Lake, Illinois, the cost of full-time daycare varies based on the type of facility and the child's age. For a licensed daycare center, you can expect to pay between $1,200 to $1,600 per month for infant care, and slightly less, around $1,000 to $1,400 per month, for toddler care. Licensed home-based daycares in the area often offer more affordable rates, typically ranging from $800 to $1,200 per month. These costs are generally in line with the Lake County average. It's important to note that prices can be higher for centers with specialized curricula or extended hours. Many facilities include meals and snacks in their tuition, but always confirm what is covered. We recommend contacting several providers directly for their most current rates and inquiring about any available sibling discounts.
How can I verify the licensing and inspection history of a daycare provider in Round Lake?
All licensed daycare providers in Illinois, including those in Round Lake, are regulated by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). To verify a provider's license and view their official compliance history, you can use the DCFS "Child Care Facility Search" tool available on their website. This public database allows you to search by facility name, city, or zip code (60073 for Round Lake) and view the license status, capacity, and any recent licensing violations or complaint investigations. For an even more thorough check, you can contact the DCFS Licensing Representative for Lake County directly. Always ask the provider for their license number and cross-reference it. This step is crucial for ensuring your child will be in a safe, state-approved environment.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Round Lake, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, waitlists are common for many daycare centers in Round Lake, especially for infant rooms which have stricter staff-to-child ratios. Popular centers and those affiliated with employers or institutions can have waitlists of 6 to 12 months or more. To secure a spot, it is highly advisable to begin your search and get on waitlists as early as possible—ideally during your second trimester of pregnancy if you are expecting. For toddler or preschool-age openings, starting your search 3-6 months in advance is recommended. When contacting centers, ask specific questions about their waitlist process: Is there a fee to join? How often is the list updated? Do they offer guaranteed enrollment for siblings of current students? Also consider expanding your search to include licensed home daycares in the Round Lake area, as they may have more immediate availability.
What local resources or programs in Round Lake can help me find and evaluate childcare options?
Round Lake area parents have several excellent local resources. The primary resource is the **Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency for Lake County**, which is administered by the YWCA Lake County. Their referral specialists can provide free, personalized lists of licensed providers in Round Lake based on your specific needs (hours, location, budget). They also offer guidance on what to look for during a visit and how to understand quality indicators. Additionally, the **Round Lake Area Public Library** often hosts community resource fairs and may have information on local preschools and daycare providers. For school-age care, check directly with **Round Lake Area Schools (District 116)** for their before-and-after-school program offerings. Online, local parent groups on Facebook (e.g., "Round Lake, IL Community") can be valuable for personal recommendations and experiences.
What are the options for part-time or drop-in childcare in Round Lake for occasional needs?
While less common than full-time care, there are some options for flexible childcare in Round Lake. Traditional daycare centers rarely offer true drop-in care due to licensing and staffing constraints, but some may offer part-time schedules (e.g., 2 or 3 days a week). Your best bet for occasional care is often a licensed home daycare, as some providers have more flexibility with their schedules. For evening or weekend occasional care, services like Care.com or Sittercity can help you find local, background-checked babysitters. Additionally, some local fitness centers, like the **Round Lake Beach Cultural & Civic Center**, may offer parent's night out events or supervised play hours for members. It's always essential to ensure any occasional caregiver is properly vetted and that the care setting is safe, even for short-term use.