The Best Preschools in Waukegan, IL
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Waukegan. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
Bright Horizons at Waukegan
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Waukegan is part of the nationally recognized Bright Horizons network, offering a comprehensive early education curriculum focused on school readiness. The facility features experienced educators with degrees in early childhood education, secure entry systems, and developmentally appropriate learning environments. Their World at Their Fingers curriculum emphasizes literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development through hands-on learning experiences. The center maintains excellent state licensing compliance and offers flexible scheduling options for working families.
Programs Offered:
The Goddard School of Gurnee
Goddard Systems, Inc.
Located just minutes from Waukegan in neighboring Gurnee, The Goddard School serves families throughout Lake County with their F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience). The school features state-certified teachers, low student-teacher ratios, and security systems including keypad entry. Their play-based learning approach incorporates STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics) concepts and promotes social, emotional, and academic development. The facility includes multiple playgrounds, enrichment classrooms, and regularly receives high marks in state inspections and parent satisfaction surveys.
Programs Offered:
Kiddie Academy of Gurnee
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Gurnee provides educational child care services to Waukegan-area families through their Life Essentials® curriculum that focuses on character development, literacy, and school readiness skills. The academy features dedicated classrooms for each age group, secure facilities with surveillance systems, and highly qualified teaching staff. Their program emphasizes hands-on learning, technology integration, and community awareness. The center maintains excellent health and safety records with regular state compliance checks and offers comprehensive communication systems to keep parents informed about their child's daily activities and progress.
Programs Offered:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Waukegan, IL:
What is the average cost of preschool in Waukegan, IL, and are there financial assistance programs available?
The average cost for a full-time preschool program in Waukegan ranges from $800 to $1,200 per month. Financial assistance is available through the Illinois Department of Human Services' Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), and many local centers offer sliding scale fees. Additionally, Waukegan School District 60 provides state-funded Preschool for All programs for qualifying families at no cost.
How can I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in Waukegan?
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. For programs within Waukegan School District 60, you can also review their Early Childhood program ratings and curriculum through the district's parent portal.
What are the typical enrollment timelines and requirements for preschools in Waukegan?
Enrollment for most private preschools in Waukegan is rolling, but popular programs often have waitlists, so applying 6-12 months in advance is advisable. For the district's Preschool for All program, enrollment typically opens in the spring for the following fall semester and requires proof of residency, income verification, and the child's birth certificate and medical records.
Are there specific preschool programs in Waukegan that support bilingual or dual-language learners?
Yes, Waukegan has a significant Spanish-speaking population, and several programs offer bilingual support. Waukegan School District 60's Early Childhood programs incorporate English Language Learner (ELL) services. Additionally, some private and faith-based preschools in the city offer dual-language immersion or structured ESL support to help children prepare for kindergarten.
What should I look for regarding safety and facilities when touring preschools in Waukegan?
Prioritize centers with secure entry systems, fenced outdoor play areas, and visible cleanliness. Inquire about their emergency preparedness plans for Illinois weather, including tornado drills. Also, verify that all staff are certified in Pediatric First Aid and CPR, which is a DCFS requirement, and ask about their child-to-staff ratios to ensure adequate supervision.
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