Early Learning Center
Early Learning & Growth
On This Page: Students' With Children | Explore the ELC | About the Program | Enroll Your Child | Questions & Tours | Family Resources
The Kishwaukee College Early Learning Center (ELC) supports students, employees and community families with quality early childhood care in a nurturing and engaging setting. Explore our programs, learn about enrollment and connect with our team.
A safe, welcoming environment where children learn, grow and thrive through play-based and guided learning experiences.
Free Childcare for Eligible Students
Students enrolled in three or more credit hours during the academic year may qualify for free childcare at Kish’s Early Learning Center.
- Be enrolled in 3+ credit hours
- Complete the Early Learning Center and Student Childcare Assistance applications
For any questions, please contact Maria Lombardo by email at mlombardo@kish.edu or by phone 815-825-9781.
Explore Life at the Early Learning Center
Explore classroom activities, hands-on learning experiences and the caring environment that helps children learn, grow and build confidence every day.
Smiles, Laughs and Learning
Children build friendships, explore new activities and enjoy a welcoming environment filled with fun and discovery.
Storytime With Kish Students
Kishwaukee College students visit the Early Learning Center to read stories and connect with young learners.
Learning Together
Children build confidence and early literacy skills through shared reading, curiosity and guided learning experiences.
Learning Through Creativity
Children explore arts, crafts and hands-on activities that support creativity, confidence and early learning skills.
Exploring Campus Together
ELC students enjoy engaging experiences across campus, including visits to the Kish greenhouse and other learning spaces.
A Visit From Kody the Kougar
Children had fun meeting Kody the Kougar during a special visit filled with smiles, play and school spirit.
Outdoor Play and Exploration
Our playground provides space for children to play, explore and enjoy outdoor activities in a safe environment.
About Our Program
We provide care for children ages 1–5. Our program is open to Kish students, staff, and community families, with both part-time and full-time options available.
Children engage in a balance of structured and play-based activities that support intellectual, social, emotional, and physical development.
- Fall & Spring: Monday–Friday, 7:15 am – 5:15 pm
- Summer: Monday–Thursday, 7:15 am – 5:15 pm
We stay connected with families through daily conversations, a parent app, and regular updates via email and letters.
Full-Day (5 days/week)
- 1 Year: $74/day
- 2–3 Years: $62/day
- 4–5 Years: $56/day
Full-Day (1–4 days/week)
- 1 Year: $79/day
- 2–3 Years: $67/day
- 4–5 Years: $61/day
Hourly (3–4.75 hours/day)
- 1 Year: $17.50/hour
- 2–3 Years: $15.50/hour
- 4–5 Years: $13.50/hour
Registration Fee:
A registration fee is required upon enrollment, with an annual renewal fee charged each fall.
Tuition is billed based on the scheduled enrollment times, not actual attendance. Rates are not adjusted for absences, vacations, or closures.
4-C: Community Coordinated Child Care is a nonprofit child care resource and referral agency that helps families access affordable, quality child care and early childhood services.
Families who believe they may qualify should contact Community Coordinated Child Care (4-C) at 815-758-8149 or visit www.four-c.org to apply.
request info or Schedule a tour
Schedule a visit, request information or connect with our team to learn more about the Early Learning Center.
Request Information or Schedule Tours
Enroll Your Child
Enrollment is open year-round, with children able to start at the beginning of a semester or mid-semester if space is available.
These enrollment steps apply to community members and faculty/staff. Kish students seeking free childcare should follow the student application process above.
Resources for Families
Explore helpful resources to support your family, including community services, educational tools, health information, and fun activities for children.
- Healthy & Fit Families (NAEYC)
- Common Food Allergies (Healthyfamilies.org)
- Choosing Healthy Snacks for Children (Healthyfamilies.org)