Licensed Daycare in Illinois
Search 5,200 verified daycare and childcare centers across Illinois, sourced directly from Illinois Department of Children and Family Services — Day Care Licensing . Filter by age group, program type, and subsidy acceptance — no signup.
Illinois Childcare Licensing
In Illinois, all child care centers serving children outside the family home are required to be licensed by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services — Day Care Licensing. Licensed centers undergo background checks, capacity inspections, and routine compliance reviews.
Minimum staff-to-child ratios are 1:4 for infants under 12 months, 1:8 for toddlers (12–35 months), and 1:10 for preschool (3–5 years). NAEYC-accredited centers typically operate below the state minimum.
Verify a license at Illinois Department of Children and Family Services — Day Care LicensingQuick licensing facts
- Regulator
- Illinois Department of Children and Family Services — Day Care Licensing
- Infant ratio
- 1:4
- Toddler ratio
- 1:8
- Preschool ratio
- 1:10
- Avg infant cost
- $1,340/mo
- Avg preschool cost
- $960/mo
Illinois Childcare Subsidies & Tax Credits
Illinois families can apply for Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) via IDHS based on income and work/school status. Federal programs — the Child & Dependent Care Tax Credit, Dependent Care FSA ($5,000 cap), and Head Start — stack on top of state assistance.
Local intake line: (877) 202-4453
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Daycare in Illinois — Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know a daycare in Illinois is licensed?
What is the staff-to-child ratio in Illinois?
How much does daycare cost in Illinois?
Are subsidies available for childcare in Illinois?
How do I report unsafe conditions at a Illinois daycare?
Search 5,200 Licensed Illinois Centers
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