Early Learning Center
Early Learning & Growth
On This Page: Students' With Children | Inside Our Classrooms | About the Program | Enroll Your Child | Family Resources
A safe, engaging environment where children learn, grow, and thrive through play-based and guided 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.
Inside Our Classrooms
Take a look at our classrooms, activities, and daily experiences.
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: $72/day
- 2–3 Years: $60/day
- 4–5 Years: $54/day
Full-Day (1–4 days/week)
- 1 Year: $75/day
- 2–3 Years: $63/day
- 4–5 Years: $57/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:
$50 upon enrollment, $25 annually (charged in fall)
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.
- Review the Enrollment Letter (PDF)
- Complete and submit the application
- Call 815-825-9781 or email mlombardo@kish.edu to confirm your application has been received and discuss next steps
We recommend applying at least one month before your desired start date. Enrollment is ongoing throughout the year.
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)