FAQs
What You Need to Know
Who can attend your center?
All families are welcome to attend IPELC which offers licensed, multicultural programs for infants, toddlers, non-potty trained twos, and preschoolers.
Do you offer part-time care and what are the options?
Part-time care is offered. Parents can either choose two full days or three full days a week based on availability. Once the days are chosen, they remain set for the child’s entire enrollment in the program.
What’s next after my child’s been accepted and I’ve completed the pre-registration form and placed a deposit?
We’re excited you’ve chosen IPELC for the care of your precious little one. Once the pre-registration form and deposit are received, you’ll be contacted by one of our administrators to confirm your admittance. One month prior to your child’s enrollment, our staff will contact you to provide an enrollment package and schedule a parent orientation meeting. During orientation you’ll have an opportunity to ask questions and meet our staff. Prior to starting enrollment, your child is also eligible for a free program trial of 2 half days.
What is your discipline and behavior management policy?
Our discipline guidelines at IPELC are to foster and teach children to be independent self-monitors of their behavior. This is achieved through behavior guidance by teachers and staff with positive reinforcement and redirecting. Corporal or emotional punishment is prohibited.
Are meals provided at the center?
We offer breakfast, lunch, and two afternoon snacks, one at 3:00pm and one at 5:00pm.
What if I’d like to enroll my child but the center doesn’t have space available?
We suggest you fill out an online application and you’ll then be placed on a waitlist. As soon as space becomes available, you will be contacted. Our goal is to accommodate families as soon as space allows. During the entire process, we’ll keep in touch regarding your status.
Is all staff trained in CPR and First Aid?
All IPELC staff members are trained and certified in CPR and First Aid.
How can I obtain information about tuition rates?
For more information about tuition rates, please contact the center either by phone: 773-539-7422 or email: [email protected].
Where is the center located?
We have two locations: 3023 W. Montrose, Chicago, IL 60618 and 3000 W. Montrose, Chicago, IL 60618
Can I visit my child’s classroom any time I’d like?
Irving Park Early Learning Center has an open-door policy for parents and extended family members. That means parents can visit the center any time during our hours of operation. Open communication between IPELC and our parents is essential to your child’s success and development.
Parents should give consent for extended family members to visit their child/children’s program.
What is IPELC’s procedure for background checks of employees?
IPELC conducts background checks through DCFS for all prospective candidates.
Do children go outside and is there a playground on-site?
Children go outside everyday if the temperature is over 25°F or under 90°F. We have a large, fenced-in, private playground with age-appropriate equipment. The playground’s flooring is made from Bounce Back Safety Surfacing tiles which offer a safer, cleaner play space with softer landing areas in case a child takes a tumble.
What are the center’s operating hours?
The center is open from 6:30am to 6:00pm Monday through Friday. The Infant/Toddler Program is open 7:00am to 6:00pm.
What is the Sick Policy at the center?
In order to maintain a healthy environment, IPELC has adopted exclusion criteria in accordance with the Illinois Department of Health and DCFS standards. All exclusion criteria are provided to families with the Center handbook upon enrollment.
How can I communicate with my child’s teacher and the center’s administration?
We value our relationship and communication with parents as we serve as partners in the care of your children. Teachers will share information with you about your child’s day on a regular basis through our Tadpoles App.
You can reach our administrators by phone or email:
Phone: 773-539-7422
Email: [email protected] or [email protected]
How can I contact the center for more information or to schedule a tour?
You can contact us by phone or email:
Phone: 773-539-7422 or 773-478-0305
Email: [email protected] or [email protected]