Questions dads always ask always ask
Here we answer everything you need to know before enrolling your child. If you don't find your answer, write to us directly.
Categories
🛡️ Home security
Who lives in the house where the daycare operates?
This is the most important question a parent can ask, and we're glad they do. Our Illinois state license requires all household members over the age of 13 to pass a criminal background check. before the state.
Every person living in the home where the daycare operates is properly registered and verified. During the initial visit, we are happy to present documentation and answer any questions about the home environment.
💡 Transparency is part of our culture. You never have to hesitate to ask.
What does Silver Circle certification mean?
The Silver Circle is a certification that Illinois awards to child care providers who go above and beyond the minimum licensing requirements. It evaluates aspects such as:
- Ongoing staff training
- Safe and stimulating environments
- Quality of educational programs
- Communication with families
✅ Only a fraction of Illinois daycars achieve this distinction. It is a real guarantee of quality.
Is the space adapted and certified for children?
Yes. The home is periodically inspected by the State of Illinois as part of license maintenance. The inspections verify:
- Protections on stairs, sockets and windows
- Correct disposal of cleaning products and medicines
- Sufficient space per child according to state standards
- Emergency exits and evacuation plan
Do they have an emergency plan, and do staff have first aid certification?
Yes, we have a documented emergency plan and our staff is trained in the following areas first aid and CPR, We are also required by state licensing. In case of any medical emergency, we immediately contact parents and emergency services.
📋 You can ask to see the emergency plan at your daycare visit.
⏰ Schedules and availability
What are the opening hours of the daycare?
We offer flexible timetables designed for working parents. We handle full and part-time schedules according to the needs of each family. Contact us directly to confirm availability and current vacancies.
📞 Call or write us and we will find the schedule that best suits your routine.
Are they open every day, and what happens on holidays?
We operate from Monday to Friday. Federal and state holidays may vary - we always give families advance notice so they can plan ahead. At the time of registration we share the calendar for the year.
Do you offer transportation to take or bring the children?
Currently we do not offer transportation services. Parents are responsible for bringing and picking up their children at our address: 5522 W Newport Ave, Chicago, IL 60641. We are located in an accessible area on the northwest side of Chicago.
What if my child gets sick during the day?
If a child develops fever, vomiting or other symptoms during the day, we contact the parents immediately to come and pick him or her up. This protects both the sick child and others. To return to daycare after an illness, we apply Illinois state guidelines.
📚 Education and development
Does bilingualism really work as a baby?
Yes - and the neuroscience backs it up. The first 5 years are the period of increased brain plasticity for language. Children raised in bilingual environments from an early age develop both languages naturally, without confusion or delay.
At Choo Choo Train, English and Spanish are integrated into every moment of the day: songs, stories, routines, games. It's not a class - it's a lifestyle.
🌟 Bilingual children also develop greater attention span and higher cognitive skills.
What training do the personnel in charge have?
Our director and founder has university degree in education and child development, The firm has more than 25 years of practical experience, Silver Circle certification and continuing education required by the State of Illinois.
We believe that the quality of care depends directly on the quality of the caregiver - that's why we invest in ongoing training.
Do they follow any specific curriculum or educational program?
Yes, we follow a program of stimulation and early education. adapted to each stage of development, aligned with Illinois state guidelines. The program includes:
- Language development (bilingual)
- Fine and gross motor skills
- Emotional intelligence and coexistence
- Pre-math and pre-reading for preschoolers
- Art, music and creative expression
Am I kept informed about my child's progress?
Absolutely. We maintain constant communication with parents - especially with the youngest babies, where we coordinate sleep and feeding routines in detail. We are available to update parents on their child's day at any time.
💬 You'll never have to guess how your child spent the day - we'll tell you.
Do children have access to screens / television?
The use of screens in our daycare is very limited and always educational, following the recommendations of the American Academy of Pediatrics. We prioritize active play, social interaction and hands-on activities over screen time - especially for children under 2 years of age.
💰 Costs and payments
How much does the service cost?
Rates vary according to the age of the child, the chosen schedule and whether it is full or part-time. Contact us for detailed information on updated pricing - we want you to know everything before you make a decision.
💡 Remember: food is included in the service, which represents a significant saving compared to other daycares.
Do you accept the CCAP (Child Care Assistance Program) grant?
Contact us directly to discuss CCAP and other financial assistance options. We want to make quality care affordable for all families in our community, regardless of their financial situation.
How and when are payments made?
Payment details (frequency, accepted methods and absence policies) are defined at the time of registration. We aim to make the process simple and convenient for parents - we explain everything during the initial visit.
Do you provide vouchers for childcare tax credit?
Yes, as a licensed child care provider, we can provide you with the necessary documentation for you to apply for a child care license. Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit on your tax return. Ask us at the beginning of the service.
📋 Registration and process
What documents do I need to enroll my child?
Typical documents required are:
- Child's birth certificate
- Up-to-date immunization card (required by the state)
- Emergency contact information
- Information from the child's physician
- Registration form and service contract
📋 We give you the complete list and help you with the process during the visit.
Do you have a waiting list and how far in advance should I register my child?
As an in-house daycare, we manage a limited number of places to guarantee personalized attention. This means that spaces fill up quickly. We recommend that you contact us with at least 4 to 6 weeks in advance to the date you need the service.
🚂 Don't wait until the last minute! Write to us today and we'll secure your spot.
Can I visit the daycare before deciding?
Of course! In fact, we recommend it. A pre-visit allows you to get to know the space, meet us in person, see the facilities and ask any questions you may have. It also helps your child become familiar with the environment before the first official day.
Contact us to schedule your visit without obligation.
Is there an adjustment period for new children?
Yes, especially for the youngest children, we offer a gradual adaptation period - short visits before the first full day so that the child can get to know the environment, caregivers and routines without pressure. Each child adapts at his or her own pace, and we respect that.
🩺 Health and nutrition
Do I need to bring a lunch box or is lunch included?
Power supply is fully included in the service - at no additional cost. We provide breakfast, lunch and snacks. We prepare nutritious, varied and homemade meals so that children eat well every day. No need to pack a lunch box.
🥗 If your child has any allergies or food restrictions, let us know and we will adapt the menu without any problem.
Can you cater for food allergies or special diets?
Yes, at the time of registration, we register the allergies, intolerances and food preferences of each child. Food safety is part of our daily care protocol. If the allergy is severe, we work together with the parents to define the best plan of action.
Can you administer medication to my child if he/she needs it?
The administration of medication at Illinois daycares is regulated by the state. If your child requires medication during daycare hours, we require a written authorization from parents and physician, together with the medication in its original container with the pharmacy label. We talk to you about the details at registration.
Is my child required to be vaccinated?
Yes, the State of Illinois requires that all children in licensed daycares have their immunization schedule up to date. according to their age. This protects all children in the group. At the time of registration you must present the updated vaccination card.