Joliet Early Learning Center
Empowering New Growth
Joliet Early Learning Center provides high quality, affordable early childhood education programs for children from infancy through school age. This new center, made possible by a grant awarded by the State of Illinois, is one of six One Hope United early childhood education programs in the Chicago metropolitan area offering a safe and nurturing learning environment for children. Each center utilizes a unique “learn by doing” approach that allows children to explore and understand the world around them. All One Hope United centers are staffed by early childhood professionals who are passionate about developing lifelong learners.
Personalized Learning
Our experienced staff work in 13 classrooms, serving children from infancy up to 12 years old. Our teachers utilize the Teaching Strategies Creative Curriculum program and GOLD assessment tool to help each child’s developmental growth and encourage creative expression.
Our fully-renovated facility includes:
- 13 classrooms
- Large gross motor room for indoor play
- Staff and parent resource rooms
- Spacious area for center and community-wide meetings
Healthy Lifestyles
We incorporate a Healthy Lifestyles curriculum that emphasizes nutrition, exercise, and protecting the environment. All ages can get active in our outdoor play areas.Â
Summer Camp
We look forward to seeing your child this summer! To learn more about the Summer Camp program and to register, click here.Â
Programs Offered Here
Joliet Early Learning Center
Overview
PROGRAMS
Infant
Toddler
Preschool
Kindergarten
School Age
Summer Camp
TEACHER-TO-CHILD RATIOS
1:4 Infant
1:5 Toddler
1:8 Young Preschool
1:10 Preschool
1:20 School Age
SUMMER CAMP
Full-day summer camp program for school-age children 6-12 years old.
ACCREDITATIONS/ LICENSES
Council on Accreditation
DCFS
Illinois ExceleRate Gold Circle of Quality
We work with the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) to provide premier child care services at a reduced rate. Contact us for more information.
need assistance?
what parents are saying
“OHU Joliet is great. I love the atmosphere and teachers/director. I enjoy bringing my child here.”
“I’ve always been very happy with Joliet, they treat me and my children like family.”
Our Team
Cree Thurmond, MEd
Center Director
Joined 2021
I am driven by a deep passion for fostering children’s growth and development in a nurturing, culturally sensitive, and inclusive environment. Every day, I am motivated by the joy of witnessing children learn, grow, and thrive under our care. My commitment to excellence ensures that I continually strive to create the best possible environment for both children and families.
Andrea Magana
Office Manager
Joined 2016
Knowing that you are part of an amazing team dedicated to children’s development is definitely rewarding. The motivation stems from a combination of passion for working with children, the fulfillment that comes from contributing to their growth and development, providing essential services and support to families, and the opportunity to make a positive impact within the community.
A. Michelle Lewis, MBA
Assistant Director
Joined 2023
What motivates me is I knowing that I have a purpose to help children become the best that they can be, and I get a great sense of job satisfaction when I have worked hard to complete tasks successfully.
Address
500 Parks Ave
Joliet, IL 60432
Phone
815-722-4200
Business Hours
Weekdays - 7AM to 5PM