The Best Preschools in La Grange, IL
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in La Grange. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
The Goddard School of La Grange
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in La Grange is a highly-rated early childhood education center offering a comprehensive play-based learning curriculum. The facility features modern classrooms, secure entry systems, and outdoor play areas. Their F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) focuses on academic, social, and emotional development through structured play and STEAM activities. Teachers hold degrees in early childhood education, and the school maintains low student-teacher ratios with daily communication to parents about their child's progress and activities.
Programs Offered:
Bright Horizons at La Grange
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at La Grange provides a research-based curriculum called The World at Their Fingertips, which emphasizes language, literacy, mathematics, science, and social-emotional development. The center features age-appropriate learning environments with dedicated spaces for different developmental stages. Safety protocols include secured entrances, comprehensive background checks for staff, and rigorous cleanliness standards. The facility offers enrichment programs in music, movement, and Spanish, along with nutritious meals and regular parent-teacher conferences.
Programs Offered:
The Children's Learning Place
Independent
The Children's Learning Place is a locally-owned preschool and learning center serving La Grange families for nearly two decades. Their balanced approach combines structured academic preparation with creative play and social development. The curriculum includes phonics-based reading readiness, early math concepts, science exploration, and character education. The center features secure facilities with camera monitoring, experienced teachers with early childhood credentials, and a low student-teacher ratio. They emphasize individualized learning plans and maintain strong communication with parents through daily reports and regular conferences.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in La Grange, IL:
What is the typical cost of preschool in La Grange, IL, and are there any financial assistance options?
Tuition for preschools in La Grange typically ranges from $200 to $400+ per week, depending on the program's schedule, philosophy, and whether it's a private center or a park district offering. For financial assistance, check if you qualify for the Illinois Department of Human Services' Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP). Additionally, many local preschools offer sibling discounts or limited scholarship opportunities, so it's always worth inquiring directly.
How do I find a licensed and high-quality preschool program in La Grange?
Start by using the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) license lookup tool to verify a school's standing. For quality, look for programs accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) or those recognized as a Gold Circle of Quality by ExceleRate Illinois, the state's quality rating system. The La Grange Park District's preschool is a well-regarded, licensed option that many local families choose.
What are the main types of preschool programs available in La Grange?
La Grange offers a mix of private preschool centers, faith-based programs (often affiliated with local churches), and community-based options through the La Grange Park District. You'll find a variety of educational philosophies, including play-based, Montessori, and more traditional academic approaches. The park district programs are popular for their part-time schedules, which are ideal for first-time preschool students.
When should I start applying for preschools in La Grange, and what is the typical enrollment process?
For the fall semester, many popular La Grange preschools begin their registration processes in January or February, with some filling up quickly. The Park District often opens registration to residents first. The process usually involves submitting an application, possibly a registration fee, and providing proof of your child's age and immunizations as required by Illinois state law.
Are there specific considerations for preschool safety and licensing in Illinois that I should ask about?
Yes, all licensed Illinois preschools must meet strict DCFS standards for staff-to-child ratios, background checks, and facility safety. Specifically ask about their emergency procedures, secure entry protocols, and staff training in CPR/first aid. In La Grange, you can also inquire about their outdoor play space safety and their policies for managing allergies, which is a common concern for young children.
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