Project CHILD can help you in your search for child care. Parents may call to speak to a trained Child Care Specialist who can provide child care options tailored for their family, as well as other information and resources to help as they choose a child care provider.
Referral lines are open from 8:00am to 4:00pm Monday through Friday. Call (618) 244-2210 or (800) 362-7257.
Training, education, experience and credentials prepare a child care provider to meet your child’s developmental needs. A quality child care provider should have written policies and procedures regarding their program. Request a provider’s qualifications, references, and written policies/procedures to learn more about their child care experience and program attributes.
All licensed child care programs are part of the ExceleRate Illinois Quality Recognition and Improvement System (QRIS). Programs can earn a Bronze, Silver or Gold Circle of Quality or a national accreditation award by meeting voluntary standards for quality child care that are higher than the state licensing requirements. Ask the provider if their program has an ExceleRate Illinois Circle of Quality or is accredited.
Quality child care offers many opportunities for all children to play each day. Play gives children the opportunity to develop their language, social, emotional, physical, and thinking skills. Early math, problem solving, and reading readiness skills, are just a few things learned through play. Look for a provider who focuses on all aspects of your child’s development.
A quality child care provider guides children, helping them to get along with others in caring, positive ways, and encourages you to be involved as well. Open communication practices allow families to feel connected and informed about their child’s day. Look for a provider who is enthusiastic, attentive, encouraging, and who communicates openly with you.
A quality child care environment is safe, clean and provides children with many learning opportunities. Look for a setting where the children are supervised at all times, nutritious meals and snacks are served, toys and learning activities are based on the age of the child and where children’s development and learning are regularly assessed.