The Best Daycare Centers in Shelbyville, IL
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Shelbyville. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Shelbyville
Little Lambs Preschool and Daycare
Independent
Little Lambs Preschool and Daycare is a highly-regarded local facility known for its nurturing Christian-based environment and comprehensive early childhood education program. The center features age-appropriate classrooms with low student-to-teacher ratios, certified early childhood educators, and a play-based learning curriculum that incorporates literacy, mathematics, and social development. Safety is prioritized with secure entry systems, comprehensive background checks for staff, and regular safety drills. The facility includes both indoor and outdoor play areas, and offers nutritious meals and snacks. Parents consistently praise the center's warm, family-like atmosphere and strong communication between staff and families.
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The Goddard School
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in nearby Mattoon (serving the Shelbyville area) offers a premium early childhood education experience with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic preparation with social development. The school features state-licensed teachers with degrees in early childhood education, modern security systems including keypad entry and surveillance, and age-specific learning environments. Curriculum includes STEAM learning, language arts, and character development programs. The facility includes secure outdoor playgrounds, on-site kitchen providing healthy meals, and enrichment programs in music, art, and physical education. Parents appreciate the structured yet flexible approach and regular progress updates.
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Carle Auditory Oral School & Early Intervention Program
Carle Health
While located in Champaign (approximately 45 minutes from Shelbyville), Carle Auditory Oral School serves families throughout Central Illinois and is renowned for its exceptional early childhood programs. The facility specializes in auditory-oral education for children with hearing loss but also offers outstanding general early childhood education. Features include master's level teachers, speech-language pathologists, small class sizes (4:1 student-teacher ratio), and individualized learning plans. The curriculum emphasizes language development, literacy, and social skills through play-based learning. The center boasts state-of-the-art facilities including sound-treated classrooms, comprehensive safety protocols, and family support services. Highly recommended for its professional staff and exceptional educational outcomes.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Shelbyville, IL
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Shelbyville, Illinois, and how can I verify a facility's license?
In Illinois, all daycare centers and home-based providers caring for more than three children must be licensed by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). These licenses require providers to meet strict standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, staff background checks, and ongoing training. For Shelbyville specifically, you can verify a provider's license status and view any history of violations by using the DCFS "Child Care Facility Search" tool on their official website. It's also a good practice to ask the provider directly for their license number and to see their most recent inspection report, which they are required to post in a visible location. The Shelby County Health Department can also be a local resource for information.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Shelbyville, IL?
The cost of childcare in Shelbyville is generally lower than in major metropolitan areas of Illinois but can vary based on the type of care. For a licensed daycare center, full-time infant care typically ranges from $150 to $225 per week. For toddlers, the cost is slightly lower, often between $130 and $200 per week. Licensed home-based daycares may offer more affordable rates, sometimes $10-$30 less per week. Factors influencing cost include the facility's amenities, staff qualifications, and meal provisions. It's important to note that Illinois offers the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) for eligible families, which can significantly offset these costs. You can apply for CCAP through the Illinois Department of Human Services.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Shelbyville, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Due to the smaller number of providers in a rural community like Shelbyville, popular and highly-rated daycare centers often have limited capacity and can maintain waitlists, especially for infant rooms. It is strongly recommended that parents begin their search during pregnancy, ideally 6 to 9 months before their needed start date. For immediate or short-term needs, exploring licensed home daycares or family childcare providers in the area may yield more immediate openings. When contacting providers, always ask about their current availability and waitlist policy, including any deposit required to hold a spot.
What types of childcare options are most commonly available in Shelbyville beyond traditional daycare centers?
Shelbyville offers a mix of childcare options to suit different family needs. Beyond licensed daycare centers, you will find several licensed family child care homes, which offer a smaller, home-like environment. For preschool-aged children, part-day preschool programs are often available through local organizations like the Shelbyville Community Center or area churches. For before and after-school care, Shelbyville schools may offer programs or partner with local providers. Additionally, informal care networks and nanny shares are options some families pursue, though these are not state-regulated. Checking community boards at places like the Shelbyville Public Library or local Facebook groups can help you discover these alternatives.
What local resources in Shelbyville can help me find and evaluate quality childcare?
A key local resource is the Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency that serves Shelby County, which is often Illinois Action for Children. They maintain a database of licensed providers, offer referrals based on your specific needs, and can provide guidance on what to look for in a quality program. The Shelbyville Chamber of Commerce may also have listings of local businesses, including daycare centers. For hands-on evaluation, schedule tours and ask providers for references from current Shelbyville families. Don't overlook local parenting groups on social media, where you can get candid recommendations and experiences from other parents in the community. Finally, the "Illinois Early Learning Project" website offers checklists and questions to ask during your visits.