Illinois Child Care Information for Parents FAQs

• Q: Where Can I Find Child Care Providers In My Area?
  A: As part of the Quality Counts program, a toll-free number has been established that parents can call for more information. (877) 20-CHILD (877-202-4453) TTY: (800) … More
• Q: Does A Child Care License Indicate A Certain Level Of Quality Care?
  A: No. When a day care center is licensed, it means that a DCFS licensing representative has inspected the facility and the facility was found to meet the minimum … More
• Q: Is Financial Assistance Available To Help Pay For Child Care?
  A: Yes. When it is necessary to avoid the separation of children from their families state funds may cover day care costs, including the required physical exam prior to … More
• Q: Will My Kids Be Able To Play Outside While In Day Care?
  A: Yes. All day care providers are required to allow for outdoor play time. This should be either at the location itself or at a nearby public park.
• Q: Where Can I File A Complaint?
  A: You may file either an oral or written complaint regarding a child care provider to the DCFS licensing agent for your geographic area. For a Child Abuse complaint call … More
• Q: Can The Day Care Center Pick My Child Up?
  A: Yes. Providers are allowed to transport children to/from day care. Parents and the day care provider should have a written agreement delegating responsibility for … More
• Q: Who Is Allowed To Pick Up My Child From Day Care?
  A: Besides the child?s parents, parents must provide a written list as to who is allowed to pick their child up. Children will only be discharged to a person on the list, … More
• Q: Am I Able To Visit The Day Care Provider?
  A: Yes. Parents must be allowed to visit during the provider´s regular hours.
• Q: Does My Child Have To Have A Physical Exam?
  A: Yes. Within 6 months prior to entering care all children must undergo a physical exam and be cleared of any communicable disease. The provider must keep a record of … More
• Q: If My Child Is Sick Can I Still Take Him To Day Care?
  A: Maybe. If your child is suspected of having, or has been diagnosed with, a communicable disease that requires isolation, has diarrhea, or a rash accompanied by a fever … More

Click here to view general Child Care Information for Parents FAQs