The 7 Best Preschools in Chicago

Choosing the right preschool for your child is a crucial decision that can set the foundation for their future learning experiences. Chicago is home to a diverse range of preschools, each offering unique programs and environments. In this guide, we explore the 7 best preschools in Chicago, providing insights into what makes them stand out.

When selecting a preschool, there are several key services and aspects to consider:

Curriculum and Learning Approach: Look for programs that focus on play-based learning, Montessori, or other educational philosophies that suit your child’s needs.
Teacher Qualifications: Ensure that teachers are certified and experienced in early childhood education.
Class Size and Teacher-to-Child Ratio: Smaller class sizes often mean more personalized attention for your child.
Facilities and Safety: Check for clean, safe, and well-equipped environments that encourage exploration and learning.
Extended Care Options: Many preschools offer before and after-school care for working parents.
Enrichment Programs: Look for additional activities such as art, music, and language classes that support holistic development.
Nutrition and Meals: Some preschools provide healthy meal plans or snacks as part of their offerings.
Cost: Tuition can vary widely, so consider your budget and any available financial assistance or scholarships.
Location and Accessibility: Proximity to home or work and ease of drop-off and pick-up can be important factors.

With these considerations in mind, delve into our detailed guide to discover which preschools in Chicago might be the perfect fit for your little one.

1. Kids' Work Chicago Riverview
2. Mother's Nature Childcare Inc
3. St. Eugene School

4. Wee Care Preschool
5. The Learning Experience
6. Calmeca Academy
7. Heavenly Paradise Preschool/Daycare

Number of companies

409

Verified reviews

4,64

Average rating

(773)2074220

1. Kids' Work Chicago Riverview

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,8/5

3429 N California Ave, 60618.0, Chicago

Day care center
Learning center
Preschool

Why we chose them

Kids’ Work Chicago Riverview is a distinguished day care center located in Chicago, Illinois, offering a range of services including daycare, a learning center, and preschool. This nurturing environment is dedicated to fostering children’s social skills, self-confidence, and understanding of the world. With programs tailored for infants, toddlers, preschool, and junior kindergarten, they emphasize experiential, hands-on learning. Their curriculum is designed by skilled teachers to suit each child’s unique style, ensuring a personalized educational experience that encourages creativity and exploration.

Known for its inclusive and welcoming atmosphere, the center prioritizes safety with features like video monitoring and a ProCare Keyless Entry System. The facility boasts an onsite secure playground and offers enriching activities such as yoga, music, and language lessons, which are included in the tuition. Moreover, the center emphasizes well-rounded development with nutritious meals and a variety of enrichment programs. Celebrated for its commitment to positivity, support, and balance, Kids’ Work Chicago Riverview stands out as a top-rated preschool and daycare option for families in the Chicago area.

(872)2204991

2. Mother's Nature Childcare Inc

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,9/5

1927 N Harlem Ave, 60707.0, Chicago

Day care center
Education center
Preschool

Why we chose them

Mother’s Nature Childcare Inc. is a standout in the childcare industry, recognized as Chicago’s premiere daycare center. It offers a unique blend of services, including a day care center, education center, and preschool, all crafted to nurture children’s growth into their intended selves. The facility prides itself on being a safe, dependable, and convenient choice for parents seeking consistent and reliable childcare. Their program is designed to build trust with parents, ensuring peace of mind while providing a warm, family-like environment for children.

The center is acclaimed for its qualified staff and a strong emphasis on diversity and cleanliness. Parents have praised the attentiveness and dedication of the staff, highlighting experiences where teachers like Ms. Amber and administrators such as Ms. Nadia have gone above and beyond to reassure and care for children. The use of the Kindertales app allows parents to stay connected and informed about their child’s daily progress, enhancing the sense of trust and transparency. This commitment to quality childcare and education makes the company a valued addition to our directory.

(773)7632235

3. St. Eugene School

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,9/5

7930 W Foster Ave, 60656.0, Chicago

Preschool
Catholic school
Kindergarten
Middle school
Elementary school

Why we chose them

Saint Eugene School offers a comprehensive educational experience from preschool through eighth grade, emphasizing a nurturing, faith-based environment. As a Catholic school, it integrates spiritual development with academic excellence, fostering a community where students grow intellectually and morally. The school provides a variety of services including preschool, kindergarten, elementary, and middle school education. With a focus on child-centered learning, the school is dedicated to creating a welcoming atmosphere for both students and families.

In addition to its core academic programs, the school features a wide array of extracurricular activities such as athletics, art club, band, and children’s choir, promoting well-rounded development. The institution also offers specialized services like inclusion support and a multi-tiered system of support to cater to diverse learning needs. Prospective families are encouraged to explore the vibrant community through personal tours, with registration open for the current and upcoming school years. The school stands out for its commitment to faith formation and its mission to cultivate a supportive educational environment.

(773)7290772

4. Wee Care Preschool

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,5/5

2816 N Pine Grove Ave, 60657.0, Chicago

Child care agency
Day care center
Preschool
School

Why we chose them

Wee Care Preschool offers a comprehensive early childhood program that caters to children from ages 3 months to 6 years, blending academics, creative play, and physical activities in a nurturing environment. As a child care agency, day care center, preschool, and school, the institution provides a flexible schedule from 7:30 am to 5:30 pm, Monday through Friday, ensuring convenience for families. The school emphasizes the importance of a rewarding preschool experience and includes enrichment classes such as music, yoga, dance, soccer, and art, alongside seasonal field trips and parent/child events.

What sets this preschool apart is its inclusive offerings, which feature ongoing enrollment and the inclusion of diapers, three nutritious snacks, and a full catered hot lunch. Potty training is not a requirement, which eases the transition for many families. The school is closed only for six major holidays, reflecting its commitment to accommodating diverse family needs. The focus on both academic and personal growth within a supportive community makes this preschool a standout choice for parents seeking a well-rounded early education for their children.

(773)7547984

5. The Learning Experience

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,5/5

4110 W Peterson Ave, 60646.0, Chicago

Day care center
Children's camp
Child care agency
Education center
Learning center
Nursery school
Preschool
Private educational institution
Summer camp
Youth care service

Why we chose them

The Learning Experience – Sauganash stands out as a pioneering institution in early childhood education, offering a joyful and engaging learning environment for children aged six weeks to six years. Since its inception in 2002, the center has made a significant impact by implementing innovative childcare and educational programs. The proprietary L.E.A.P.® (Learning Experience Academic Program) curriculum is designed to meet or exceed nationwide standards, encouraging children to learn through exploration and hands-on activities. With a focus on nurturing the whole child, the curriculum includes enrichment programs such as music, engineering, and fitness at no additional charge, ensuring a comprehensive educational experience.

The center provides a wide array of services, including daycare, preschool, and various educational programs tailored for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. The nurturing staff is dedicated to creating a safe and welcoming environment where children can thrive. The facility is well-equipped with clean, secure, and child-friendly spaces, including separate play areas for different age groups. The center’s unique approach to learning, which incorporates beloved characters to teach values and activities, has garnered positive reviews from parents who appreciate the caring and communicative staff. Families also benefit from features like a user-friendly app for daily updates and photos, fostering a strong connection between the center and parents.

(773)5357000

6. Calmeca Academy

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,6/5

3456 W 38th St, 60632.0, Chicago

Middle school
Elementary school
Kindergarten
Preschool

Why we chose them

Calmeca Academy stands out for its commitment to cultivating bilingual, bicultural, and biliterate students through an immersive fine arts and dual language curriculum. Offering educational services from preschool to middle school, the academy emphasizes the importance of cultural celebration, language diversity, and community building. The school’s innovative approach prepares students to meet both academic and social demands, fostering a sense of responsibility and solidarity. By integrating state standards with specialized programs and extracurricular activities, the academy ensures a well-rounded educational experience.

With a vibrant history and a focus on continuous improvement, Calmeca Academy places great importance on professional development and data-driven instruction. The school hosts various community events, such as book fairs and high school fairs, to engage students and families actively. Its dedication to academic excellence and community service is reflected in the achievements of its students and staff. The academy’s welcoming environment encourages students to climb to the peaks of greatness, making it a valuable addition to our directory.

(773)2726220

7. Heavenly Paradise Preschool/Daycare

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,3/5

6256 N Hoyne Ave C, 60659.0, Chicago

Day care center
Preschool

Why we chose them

Heavenly Paradise Preschool/DayCare is a standout childcare provider in Chicago, known for its commitment to creating a nurturing and educational environment for children from infancy to pre-kindergarten. This family-owned and operated center offers a multicultural and multilingual setup, ensuring that children from diverse backgrounds feel welcomed and supported. With services ranging from infant care to after-school programs, the center provides a comprehensive approach to early childhood education. Their caregivers are highly qualified, emphasizing the development of cognitive, motor, and social skills through organized play and activities.

Parents can rely on this center for its flexible hours and around-the-clock availability, which is particularly beneficial for those facing emergency situations or non-traditional work schedules. The center prioritizes safety and provides freshly cooked, nutritious meals to keep children energized throughout their day. The preschool’s Links to Learning curriculum is designed to prepare children for elementary school by developing essential academic and emotional skills. With a focus on fostering creativity and independence, the center ensures that every child is ready to take their next steps confidently.

FAQs

What types of curriculums are commonly offered in Chicago preschools?

Chicago preschools typically offer a variety of curriculums, including play-based, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, and traditional academic approaches. Each focuses on different aspects of early childhood development, so it's important to choose one that aligns with your child's learning style and needs.

How much does preschool typically cost in Chicago?

Preschool tuition in Chicago can vary widely, typically ranging from €6,000 to €15,000 per year. This cost can depend on factors such as the type of program, location, and additional services offered.

What qualifications should I look for in preschool teachers?

Look for teachers who have degrees in early childhood education and relevant certifications. Experience in the field and a passion for working with young children are also important factors to consider.

What is the typical teacher-to-child ratio in Chicago preschools?

In Chicago, the typical teacher-to-child ratio in preschools ranges from 1:8 to 1:12, depending on the age group and the specific preschool's policies. Smaller ratios often allow for more personalized attention.

What factors should I consider when choosing a preschool for my child?

Consider the curriculum, teacher qualifications, class size, facilities, safety measures, location, cost, and additional programs such as art or music. It's also important to visit the preschool to get a feel for the environment and meet the staff.

Are there preschools in Chicago that offer extended care options?

Yes, many preschools in Chicago offer extended care options, including before and after-school programs, to accommodate working parents. Be sure to inquire about the hours and additional costs associated with these services.

Do Chicago preschools provide meal plans or snacks for children?

Some Chicago preschools include healthy meal plans or snacks as part of their offerings, while others may require parents to pack meals for their children. It's important to ask about food policies when selecting a preschool.

How can I assess the safety and facilities of a preschool?

Visit the preschool to observe the cleanliness and maintenance of the facilities. Check for secure entrances, safe play areas, and emergency preparedness plans. It's also helpful to ask about safety protocols and staff training.