The Best Daycare Centers in Westmont, IL
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Westmont. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Westmont
Bright Horizons at Westmont
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Westmont offers a comprehensive early education curriculum focused on school readiness and whole-child development. The center features the World at Their Fingers curriculum that emphasizes literacy, math, science, and social skills through hands-on learning. Teachers hold early childhood education degrees and maintain low teacher-to-child ratios. The facility includes age-appropriate classrooms, secure entry systems, and outdoor playgrounds designed for different age groups. Bright Horizons is known for its strong emphasis on safety protocols, nutritious meal programs, and regular parent communication through daily reports and digital updates.
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The Goddard School of Downers Grove
Goddard Systems, Inc.
Located just minutes from Westmont, The Goddard School of Downers Grove provides a play-based learning environment with the F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic preparation with social-emotional development. The school features STEAM-focused classrooms, dedicated art and music areas, and secure outdoor play spaces. All lead teachers hold four-year degrees in education or related fields, and the center maintains enhanced safety protocols including secured entry systems and comprehensive background checks. The program emphasizes character development, problem-solving skills, and individualized learning plans with regular progress assessments shared with parents.
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Kiddie Academy of Westmont
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Westmont implements the Life Essentials® curriculum that integrates character education with academic readiness through project-based learning and daily enrichment activities. The center features technology-enhanced classrooms, a dedicated STEM lab, and multiple outdoor learning environments. Staff members receive ongoing professional development in early childhood education and CPR/first aid certification. The academy emphasizes health and safety with rigorous cleaning protocols, secure check-in systems, and nutritionally balanced meals prepared on-site. Parent engagement is supported through the proprietary mobile app that provides real-time updates, photos, and developmental milestone tracking.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Westmont, IL
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Westmont, IL?
In Westmont, the average cost for full-time infant care (children under 2 years old) typically ranges from $1,400 to $1,800 per month. For toddlers (ages 2-3), you can expect to pay between $1,200 and $1,600 per month. These rates are influenced by factors such as the type of facility (corporate chain vs. in-home licensed daycare), staff-to-child ratios, and included amenities like meals or educational curricula. Costs in Westmont are generally on par with or slightly below the DuPage County average, but it's important to budget for potential annual increases. Many centers also require a one-time registration fee, which can be $75-$200.
How do I verify that a daycare or preschool in Westmont is properly licensed and what should I look for during a tour?
All licensed daycare providers in Illinois are regulated by the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). You can verify a Westmont facility's license status, view any licensing history, and check for complaints or violations by using the DCFS "Child Care License Lookup" tool online. During an in-person tour in Westmont, specifically ask to see their current license, check for visible emergency evacuation plans, and observe staff-child interactions. Inquire about staff qualifications, including required background checks and ongoing training in topics like Pediatric First Aid/CPR and Illinois' "Recognizing and Reporting Child Abuse" (DCFS Mandated Reporter training). Also, note the cleanliness and safety of both indoor and outdoor play areas.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Westmont, and when should I start looking?
Yes, waitlists are common for many of the more sought-after daycare centers and preschools in Westmont, especially for infant rooms which have the strictest staff-to-child ratios. It is highly recommended that expecting parents or families planning a move start researching and contacting facilities during the second trimester of pregnancy or at least 6-9 months before their desired start date. Some premier centers in the area may have waitlists exceeding a year for infants. For toddler and preschool-age openings, a 3-6 month lead time is more typical. Be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist fee (often $50-$100) and to follow up periodically to express continued interest.
What are the options for part-time or flexible childcare schedules in Westmont?
Westmont offers several options for parents not needing full-time, five-day-a-week care. Many local daycare centers offer part-time schedules, such as 2, 3, or 4 days per week, though these spots can be limited and may not be available for infants. Several preschools in the area (often affiliated with churches or community organizations) offer half-day programs, typically 2-3 hours in the morning or afternoon, for children ages 3-5. For more flexible or occasional care, you can explore licensed family/group home daycares, which may offer more schedule adaptability, or utilize local nanny-share networks facilitated through community groups on social media platforms like Facebook.
Does the Village of Westmont or local organizations offer any resources or assistance for finding and affording childcare?
While the Village of Westmont itself does not directly operate childcare facilities, it provides resources through its community services department and website. A key resource is the DuPage County Child Care Resource and Referral service, which helps parents find licensed options. For financial assistance, Illinois' Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) provides subsidies to eligible families based on income, family size, and need. The application is processed through the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS). Additionally, local organizations like the Westmont Park District offer preschool and enrichment programs that can complement childcare arrangements, and some employers in the area may offer Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs).
Childcare Insights for Westmont
Finding quality childcare with current openings can feel like a pressing challenge for any parent. If you're searching for "daycares near me with openings" in Westmont, Illinois, you're likely navigating a mix of hope and urgency. The good news is that Westmont and its surrounding DuPage County communities offer a variety of excellent childcare options, and with a strategic approach, you can find a wonderful place for your child to learn and grow. The key is knowing where to look and what to prioritize in your local search.
Start by broadening your geographic scope just slightly. While focusing on Westmont proper, also consider the immediate neighboring towns like Downers Grove, Clarendon Hills, and Willowbrook. Many families in our area find that a short commute is well worth it for the right program that meets their child’s needs and their family’s schedule. When contacting centers, be direct and ask about their current enrollment status for your child's specific age group. Availability can change daily, and sometimes a center may have an opening in a toddler room but not for infants, so precise communication is essential. Don't hesitate to ask if they maintain a waitlist and what their typical timeline looks like; a proactive call can sometimes move you up the list faster than you think.
In Westmont, you'll encounter a mix of larger, established childcare centers, often part of respected local chains or faith-based organizations, and smaller, licensed home daycares. Each offers distinct advantages. The larger centers typically provide structured curricula, multiple classrooms, and greater resources, while home-based providers can offer a cozy, family-like atmosphere with mixed-age interactions and often more flexible hours. Consider what environment would best suit your child's temperament. As you evaluate options, pay close attention to logistics specific to our area. Ask about their policies for late pick-up, especially if your commute involves the I-88 or Route 83 corridors, which can be unpredictable. Inquire about how they handle seasonal weather, from snowy day closures to where children play on rainy days. A visit is non-negotiable; use your time to observe how caregivers interact with the children, check for cleanliness and safety, and feel the general atmosphere of the space.
Finally, tap into the local parent networks that make Westmont such a supportive community. Beyond online searches, ask for recommendations in local Facebook groups like those for Westmont families or at community hubs like the Westmont Park District, which often has insights into local childcare. Sometimes the best leads for unexpected openings come through word-of-mouth from other parents. Remember, finding an opening is one part of the equation; ensuring the program's philosophy on learning, discipline, and communication aligns with your family's values is what leads to a truly successful partnership. With patience and thorough research, you can find a nurturing and engaging childcare solution right here in our community.
Nearby Cities
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