The Best Preschools in Huntsville, IL
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Huntsville. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
The Goddard School of Mattoon
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Mattoon is a highly-rated early childhood education center serving the broader Coles County area, including Huntsville. They offer a comprehensive play-based learning curriculum focused on social, emotional, and academic development. The facility features modern classrooms, secure entry systems, and qualified teachers with early childhood education credentials. Their F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) emphasizes literacy, STEM, and creative arts while maintaining small class sizes for individualized attention.
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Little Blessings Daycare & Preschool
Independent
Little Blessings is a well-established Christian-based preschool serving Mattoon and surrounding communities including Huntsville. They provide a structured yet nurturing environment with a balanced curriculum that includes phonics, mathematics, science exploration, and Bible stories. The center maintains excellent staff-to-child ratios and employs experienced early childhood educators. Safety is prioritized with secure facilities, regular drills, and comprehensive background checks for all staff members.
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Charleston Community Day Care Center
Independent
Serving Coles County and surrounding areas including Huntsville, Charleston Community Day Care Center has been providing quality early childhood education for over two decades. They offer a developmental appropriate practice curriculum aligned with Illinois Early Learning Standards. The center features certified teachers, nutritious meal programs, and spacious indoor/outdoor play areas. Their program emphasizes social-emotional development, early literacy, and kindergarten readiness skills through hands-on learning experiences.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Huntsville, IL:
What is the typical cost of preschool in Huntsville, IL, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Huntsville and the broader Vermilion County area, preschool costs can range from approximately $150 to $250 per week, depending on the program's schedule and philosophy. For income-eligible families, the state-funded Preschool For All program is available through the local school district (like Georgetown-Ridge Farm CUSD #4 or others), offering free, high-quality early education. Additionally, many private centers accept state childcare subsidies to help reduce costs.
How can I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in Huntsville, IL?
All licensed preschools in Illinois are regulated by the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). You can search for a specific facility's licensing status and view any history of violations on the DCFS website. For programs within the public school system, you can also review their Early Childhood Block Grant performance reports. It's highly recommended to schedule in-person visits to observe the environment and ask about staff qualifications and curriculum.
What types of preschool programs are most common in the Huntsville, IL area?
Huntsville families typically have access to a few key options. These include state-funded Preschool For All programs, often housed within the local elementary school, which provide a part-day schedule. Private, home-based daycare preschool programs are also common in the area, offering more flexible hours. Given the rural setting, specialized programs like Montessori are less prevalent locally and may require travel to nearby larger towns like Danville.
When should I start looking and applying for preschools in Huntsville, given the enrollment timelines?
For the state-funded Preschool For All program, application and screening processes often begin in the early spring (March-April) for the following fall semester. Private preschools and daycares may have rolling enrollment but also fill their slots several months in advance. It is advisable to start your research and visits at least 6-9 months before your desired start date, especially since options in a smaller community like Huntsville can be limited.
Are there considerations for preschool transportation in Huntsville, IL?
Transportation is a key factor in rural Huntsville. Public school district preschool programs may provide bus transportation for enrolled students, which is a significant benefit. Most private, home-based preschools do not offer transportation, so parents must arrange drop-off and pick-up. When evaluating options, factor in your commute, especially during Illinois winters, as travel to a program in a neighboring town may be necessary.
Nearby Cities
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