The Best Daycare Centers in Washington, IL
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Washington. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Washington
Little Jewels Learning Center
Independent
Little Jewels Learning Center is a highly-regarded local childcare facility known for its nurturing environment and comprehensive educational programs. They employ experienced, qualified teachers who implement a play-based learning curriculum that focuses on social, emotional, and cognitive development. The center features secure facilities with age-appropriate classrooms, outdoor play areas, and structured learning activities. They maintain excellent teacher-to-child ratios and emphasize individualized attention. Parents consistently praise their communication, safety protocols, and the caring staff who create a warm, family-like atmosphere for children.
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Kiddie Academy of Peoria
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Peoria serves the greater Washington area with their nationally recognized Life Essentials® curriculum that balances academic preparation with character development. The facility features state-of-the-art security systems, modern classrooms, and dedicated play areas. Their highly qualified teachers hold early childhood education credentials and receive ongoing professional development. The academy emphasizes STEM learning, literacy development, and social skills through structured activities and creative play. Parents appreciate the transparent communication through their mobile app and the comprehensive approach to child development.
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The Goddard School of Peoria
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Peoria provides premium early childhood education serving Washington families with their F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) program that combines academic learning with play-based activities. The school features purpose-built classrooms, multiple playgrounds, and advanced security systems. All teachers are professionally trained in early childhood development and maintain ongoing certifications. The curriculum focuses on literacy, mathematics, science, and social studies while promoting creativity and critical thinking. The school is particularly noted for its low student-to-teacher ratios, daily progress reports, and strong emphasis on safety and cleanliness protocols.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Washington, IL
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Washington, IL, and how can I verify a facility's license?
In Washington, IL, all daycare centers and licensed home daycares must be licensed by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). DCFS sets strict standards for staff-to-child ratios, staff qualifications (including background checks and ongoing training), facility safety, nutrition, and program curriculum. To verify a provider's license and view any history of violations, you can use the DCFS "Child Care Facility and Foster Home Search" tool available on their official website. It's highly recommended to check this database as a first step, and you can also contact the DCFS licensing representative for the Central Illinois region for specific questions about a Washington provider's compliance history.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Washington, IL?
The cost of childcare in Washington, IL, is generally more affordable than in larger metropolitan areas like Chicago, but prices have been rising. For a licensed daycare center, you can expect to pay an average of $225 to $275 per week for infant care and $200 to $250 per week for toddler care. Licensed home-based daycares often offer slightly lower rates, typically ranging from $160 to $220 per week. These are estimates, and costs can vary based on the facility's amenities, curriculum, and hours of operation. It's important to ask what is included in the weekly rate (e.g., meals, diapers, formula).
Are there any local resources or programs in Washington, IL, that help parents find and pay for childcare?
Yes, there are several key local resources. The primary resource is the Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency for the region, which is **Sparks CCR&R** (serving Tazewell County, including Washington). They maintain a database of licensed providers, offer personalized referrals, and can guide you through the application process for the Illinois Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP). CCAP provides state-subsidized childcare for income-eligible families. Additionally, the **Tazewell County Health Department** and local community centers like the **Washington District Library** may have bulletin boards or information on local home-based providers and preschool programs.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Washington, IL, and when should I start looking?
Waitlists for the most sought-after daycare centers and preschools in Washington can be significant, especially for infant rooms which have the strictest staff-to-child ratios. It is not uncommon for popular centers to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months or more. To secure a spot, parents are advised to begin touring facilities and getting on waitlists as early as the first trimester of pregnancy. For toddler or preschool-age openings, starting your search 4-6 months in advance is a good rule of thumb. Be sure to ask about the waitlist policy, including any non-refundable deposit to hold a spot and how often you need to confirm your continued interest.
What are some of the key differences between daycare centers and licensed home daycares available in Washington?
Washington offers both types, each with distinct advantages. **Daycare Centers** (like those in commercial buildings) often have multiple classrooms, structured curricula, larger staff teams, and may offer extended hours. They are typically more regulated for physical facilities. **Licensed Group Home Daycares** (caring for 8-12 children in a provider's home) offer a more intimate, family-like setting with mixed-age groups, often providing more flexible hours and potentially lower costs. They may follow a less rigid daily schedule. A key consideration for Washington parents is location and environment: a home daycare may be in a residential neighborhood closer to your home, while a center might be more convenient for a commute along Route 24 or Route 8. Always ensure either option is DCFS-licensed.