Childcare & Daycare Centers in Chicago, IL
Looking for childcare & daycare centers near you in Chicago? This page lists 25 independent childcare & daycare centers in Chicago, Illinois, from Barnette Academy, Blossom Leaders Academy, Caterpillar Care and more. Each listing links to the business website and shows the address, phone number and opening hours when they are published. Featured businesses appear first.
More cities
25 childcare & daycare centers in Chicago
How to choose a childcare center in Chicago
- Confirm the center is licensed with your state's child care licensing agency, and review any posted inspection or violation records the agency makes public.
- Ask about staff-to-child ratios, caregiver training and background checks, staff turnover, and first aid and CPR certification for those caring for your child.
- Visit during the day, unannounced if allowed, and watch how caregivers talk to children, how the space looks, and how meals, naps, and outdoor time are handled.
- Ask about sick policies, security and pickup procedures, daily communication, tuition, late fees, and waitlists, since popular centers can have long waits.
Frequently asked questions
How many childcare & daycare centers are listed in Chicago?
Essential Biz Directory currently lists 25 independent childcare & daycare centers in Chicago, Illinois. New businesses are added regularly, and owners can add their own listing for a one-time fee of $9.99.
How do I choose between childcare & daycare centers in Chicago?
Start with location and opening hours, then visit each business website to compare services, credentials and pricing. Contact two or three options with the same questions so you can compare their answers side by side.
How do I find a good daycare near me?
Search your city, confirm licensing with your state, and visit several centers. Observe caregivers and the environment, ask about ratios and policies, and talk with other parents. Choose the place where you feel confident leaving your child. Ask other parents in your neighborhood, because personal recommendations often reveal how centers handle communication, discipline, and daily routines.
How much does daycare cost?
Costs vary by location, child's age, hours, and program type. Infant care generally costs more than care for older children. Ask for the tuition schedule and about fees, subsidies, and any tax benefits that may apply. Full-day, part-day, and school-year programs are often priced differently, so ask about each option, plus fees for registration, supplies, meals, and late pickup, and whether sibling discounts or financial assistance are offered.