The Best Daycare Centers in Worden, IL
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Worden. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Worden
KinderCare Learning Center - Edwardsville
KinderCare Education LLC
KinderCare in Edwardsville is a highly-regarded childcare center known for its balanced educational approach that blends play-based learning with structured academic preparation. The center employs a proprietary curriculum aligned with Illinois early learning standards, focusing on literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development. All lead teachers hold early childhood education credentials, with many possessing bachelor's degrees and ongoing professional development. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate indoor and outdoor play areas, and nutritious meal programs. Standout features include low student-teacher ratios, regular developmental assessments, and strong parent communication through daily reports and family engagement events. It serves families from Worden and surrounding communities with flexible full-time and part-time scheduling options.
Daycare Services:
The Goddard School - Glen Carbon
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Glen Carbon offers a premier early childhood education experience with its F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) program that emphasizes play-based learning, STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics) activities, and character development. The center boasts state-licensed teachers with specialized training in child development and low child-to-teacher ratios for personalized attention. Safety is prioritized with keypad entry, secure playgrounds, and comprehensive background checks. The modern facility includes dedicated learning centers, interactive technology, and outdoor exploration areas. Parents praise the school's robust communication system, inclusive environment, and focus on preparing children for kindergarten through hands-on, developmental activities. It actively serves Worden residents with extended hours and enrichment programs.
Daycare Services:
Little Angels Learning Center
Independent Ownership
Little Angels Learning Center is a locally-owned childcare facility renowned for its nurturing, family-oriented atmosphere and strong educational foundation. The center implements a blended curriculum incorporating Creative Curriculum elements with Montessori-inspired activities to foster independence, creativity, and cognitive skills. Staff members are CPR and First Aid certified, with lead teachers holding associate or bachelor's degrees in early childhood education. The center features a secure, clean environment with age-specific classrooms, a fenced outdoor play area, and a focus on health and nutrition with homemade meals. It stands out for its small class sizes, individualized learning plans, and active parent involvement through regular conferences and community events. Serving Worden and adjacent areas, it offers flexible care options and a commitment to holistic child development.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Worden, IL
What are the main types of licensed childcare options available for families in Worden, IL?
In Worden, Illinois, parents primarily have access to licensed home daycares and center-based programs. Given Worden's smaller, rural community size, licensed family child care homes are a common and popular option, often offering a more home-like environment with flexible hours. There are also a few licensed child care centers within a short driving distance in nearby towns like Edwardsville or Highland. All providers must be licensed by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS), which sets standards for safety, staff-to-child ratios, and curriculum. For school-age children, the Worden Elementary School district may offer before-and-after-school care programs, which are a key local resource.
How much does full-time daycare typically cost in Worden, and are there any financial assistance programs for local residents?
In the Worden area, full-time daycare costs can vary. For a licensed family home daycare, you might expect to pay between $125 to $175 per week for an infant or toddler. Center-based care in nearby larger towns tends to be higher, often ranging from $180 to $250 per week. Several financial assistance options are available for qualifying families. The Illinois Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) is the primary resource, which uses a sliding fee scale based on income, family size, and need. Additionally, local organizations like the Madison County Community Development office can provide guidance and referrals. It's also worth checking with individual providers, as some may offer sibling discounts.
Are daycare waitlists common in Worden, and how far in advance should I start looking for infant care?
While Worden itself has a limited number of providers, creating high demand for the available spots, waitlists are very common, especially for infant care. Licensed home daycares often have small capacities (e.g., 8 children total), so a single opening can fill quickly. It is strongly recommended that parents begin their search during pregnancy, ideally by the second trimester. For infant care (children under 2 years old), contacting providers 6 to 9 months before your needed start date is advisable. Be proactive: visit potential providers, get on multiple waitlists, and check back periodically. Expanding your search to include providers in neighboring communities like Hamel or Grantfork can increase your options.
What are the state licensing requirements I should verify when choosing a daycare provider in Worden?
Every licensed childcare provider in Worden must comply with Illinois DCFS regulations. Key requirements parents should verify include: a valid license posted visibly, background checks for all staff and household members (in home daycares), ongoing training in health/safety and early childhood education, mandated reporter training for child abuse prevention, and compliance with staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants). Providers must also have emergency plans, safe sleep policies for infants, and nutrition guidelines. You can check a provider's licensing status and any history of violations through the Illinois DCFS "Child Care Facility and Foster Home Search" website. Don't hesitate to ask a provider to see their license and inspection reports.
What resources are available in Worden to help me find and evaluate local daycare providers?
The most valuable local resource is the Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency serving Madison County, which is the **Illinois Action for Children** network. They maintain a database of all licensed providers in and around Worden, offer referrals based on your specific needs, and can provide guidance on quality indicators and the CCAP application process. You can contact them online or by phone. Additionally, connecting with other parents through local Facebook groups (e.g., "Worden, IL Community") or talking to staff at Worden Elementary School can yield personal recommendations. The Madison County Health Department is also a resource for ensuring health and safety standards are met.