The Best Preschools in Joliet, IL
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Joliet. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
The Goddard School of Joliet
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Joliet is a highly-rated early childhood education center offering play-based learning with a structured academic foundation. The facility features state-of-the-art security systems, keypad entry, and comprehensive safety protocols. Their F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) focuses on literacy, STEM, and social-emotional development. Teachers hold degrees in early childhood education, and the school maintains low student-teacher ratios. Parents consistently praise the engaging curriculum, clean facilities, and professional staff.
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Kiddie Academy of Joliet
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Joliet provides comprehensive educational programming through their Life Essentials® curriculum, which balances academic preparation with character development. The facility features secure entry systems, certified teachers with early childhood credentials, and developmentally appropriate learning environments. Their program emphasizes literacy, mathematics, science, and social studies while incorporating technology and creative arts. The academy maintains excellent health and safety standards with regular sanitation protocols and emergency preparedness training.
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Chesterbrook Academy Preschool
Spring Education Group
Located just minutes from Joliet in Channahon, Chesterbrook Academy serves families throughout the Joliet metropolitan area with their advanced early learning program. The school features a comprehensive curriculum that includes phonics-based reading instruction, hands-on mathematics, and inquiry-based science. Their secure campus includes monitored entry systems and fenced playgrounds. The academy employs degreed teachers who receive ongoing professional development and maintains small class sizes for individualized attention. Parents consistently report high satisfaction with the school's academic preparation and nurturing environment.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Joliet, IL:
What is the average cost of preschool in Joliet, IL, and are there any financial assistance programs available?
The average cost for a full-time preschool program in Joliet ranges from $800 to $1,200 per month. Financial assistance is available through the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) for eligible families, and many local centers also offer sliding scale fees or scholarships. It's also worth checking with the Joliet Park District, which offers affordable preschool options.
How can I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in Joliet?
All licensed preschools in Illinois are regulated by the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). You can check a specific facility's licensing status and any history of violations through the DCFS website. Additionally, looking for programs accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) or holding a Gold Circle of Quality rating from Illinois' ExceleRate system is a strong indicator of quality.
What are the main types of preschool programs available in Joliet?
Joliet offers a variety of preschool settings, including faith-based programs at local churches, Montessori schools, private daycare centers with preschool curricula, and public Pre-K programs through Joliet Public Schools District 86 for eligible 3- and 4-year-olds. The Joliet Park District also operates popular recreational-based preschools that incorporate play and movement.
When should I start looking and applying for preschools in Joliet, as waitlists can be long?
For the most sought-after programs, especially public Pre-K and popular private centers, you should begin your search and inquiries at least 12-18 months before your desired start date. Many programs in Joliet begin their enrollment periods in January or February for the following fall semester, so starting your research the prior summer or fall is highly recommended.
Are there preschools in Joliet that offer flexible schedules or extended hours for working parents?
Yes, many private daycare centers in Joliet offer full-day, year-round preschool programs with extended hours, often from 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM, to accommodate working parents. Traditional preschools often offer half-day sessions, but some may provide optional "wrap-around" care. It's crucial to ask about specific hours and early drop-off/late pick-up policies during your tours.
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