The Best Daycare Centers in University Park, IL
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in University Park. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in University Park
Bright Horizons at Matteson
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Matteston is a nationally accredited childcare center located just minutes from University Park. They follow the World at Their Fingers curriculum, which emphasizes hands-on learning and developmental milestones. The center features highly qualified teachers with early childhood education degrees, low teacher-to-child ratios, and secure facility access with coded entry systems. Their program includes STEM activities, literacy development, and outdoor learning in age-appropriate playgrounds. The center is known for its comprehensive parent communication system and nutritious meal program.
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Kiddie Academy of Frankfort
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Frankfort serves families throughout the University Park area with their Life Essentials curriculum that balances education and character development. The center features state-certified teachers, secure keypad entry, and comprehensive safety protocols including regular drills. Their program includes technology integration, music and movement, and hands-on science activities. The facility includes modern classrooms, age-appropriate learning centers, and outdoor play spaces. Parents consistently praise the center's communication, experienced staff, and the visible developmental progress in children.
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The Goddard School of Mokena
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Mokena provides high-quality early childhood education to University Park families through their F.L.EX. (Fun Learning Experience) program. The center employs degreed teachers and maintains low student-to-teacher ratios. Their curriculum focuses on academic readiness, social development, and creative expression through play-based learning. The facility features secure entry systems, modern classrooms with dedicated learning centers, and age-appropriate playgrounds. The school is recognized for its strong focus on safety, comprehensive learning assessments, and excellent parent-teacher communication through their proprietary mobile app.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in University Park, IL
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in University Park, IL?
In University Park and the surrounding south suburban Chicago area, full-time daycare costs can vary significantly based on the type of facility. For a licensed daycare center, parents can expect to pay between $1,200 to $1,600 per month for infant care. Toddler care typically ranges from $1,000 to $1,400 per month. Licensed home-based daycare providers in the area often offer slightly lower rates, generally between $800 to $1,200 per month. These costs are influenced by factors such as staff-to-child ratios, curriculum, facility amenities, and whether meals are included. It's important to note that Illinois offers the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) for eligible families, which can help subsidize these costs.
How do I verify that a daycare provider in University Park is properly licensed and has a good standing with the state?
All licensed daycare centers and home providers in Illinois are regulated by the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). To verify a provider's license and compliance history, you can use the "Child Care Facility and Day Care Home Search" tool on the Illinois DCFS website. This public database allows you to search by facility name, city (like University Park), or zip code. The report will show the license status, any recent licensing visits, and crucially, a history of any substantiated violations or complaints. You can also contact the DCFS Licensing Representative for the region directly. We recommend always choosing a DCFS-licensed provider to ensure minimum health, safety, and training standards are met.
Are there any daycare centers or preschools in University Park with specific educational philosophies or specialized programs?
While University Park is a smaller community, parents have access to a variety of programs in the immediate area and neighboring towns like Park Forest, Crete, and Matteson. You can find centers offering play-based learning, Montessori-inspired methods, and faith-based programs (often through local churches). For more structured academic preschools, many parents look to centers in nearby Flossmoor or Homewood. Additionally, the Governor's State University, located in University Park, may have resources or partnerships with early childhood education programs. The best approach is to search the DCFS database for licensed providers in the 60484 zip code and then visit their websites or call to inquire about their specific curriculum and educational approach.
What is the current waitlist situation for daycare in University Park, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Due to high demand and limited slots, especially for infants, waitlists are common at many preferred daycare centers in the south suburbs. In University Park and the surrounding communities, it is strongly advised to begin your search at least 6 to 9 months before you need care, and even earlier (12+ months) for an infant spot. Some highly sought-after centers may have waitlists over a year long. When contacting providers, always ask specifically about their waitlist process: Is there a fee to be placed on it? How often is it updated? What is the estimated current wait time for your child's age group? Exploring both centers and licensed home daycares can increase your options and potentially reduce wait times.
What resources are available locally to help me find and compare childcare options in University Park?
The primary local resource for finding licensed childcare is the **Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency for your region**, which is funded by the state of Illinois. For University Park (Cook County), this is the "Child Care Resource & Referral" service provided by the YWCA Metropolitan Chicago. They maintain a comprehensive, updated database of all licensed providers. You can contact them for a free, personalized referral list based on your location, child's age, hours needed, and budget. Additionally, local community hubs like the University Park Public Library or the Village Hall may have bulletin boards with information, and online community groups (e.g., Facebook groups for University Park/Park Forest parents) can be valuable for personal recommendations and insights.