Infants
Gentle bonding, tummy time, sensory play, and individualized nap and feeding schedules. Daily logs for parents.
Licensed · Family-owned since 2012
Where little learners grow with confidence and joy
Elfe Childcare is a warm, licensed early learning center for infants through school-age children. We combine gentle care, outdoor play, and play-based curriculum so every child feels seen, safe, and excited to learn.
State licensed · DCFS compliant
Low ratios · Dedicated teachers
12+ years serving families
About Elfe Childcare
We believe childhood is meant to be curious, messy, musical, and full of wonder. Our educators create calm, predictable routines wrapped in flexibility—so toddlers know what to expect while still having room to explore.
Our philosophy blends play-based learning, nature time in our garden, and responsive caregiving that honors each child's pace. Parents partner with us through daily updates, open conversations, and transparent policies.
4:1
Max infant ratio
8:1
Preschool ratio
100%
CPR-certified staff
Programs for Every Stage
Age-appropriate rooms, thoughtful transitions, and curriculum that grows with your child—from first smiles to homework help.
Toddlers
Language bursts, motor skills, art, music, and social-emotional coaching as little ones learn to share and express feelings.
Preschool
Pre-literacy, early math, science discovery, and kindergarten readiness through projects, stories, and cooperative play.
After School
Homework support, outdoor games, creative clubs, and quiet time after the school day—open until 6:00 p.m.
A Day at Elfe
Predictable rhythms help children feel secure. Here is a typical preschool day—infant and toddler schedules adapt around naps and feeds.
7:00 – 8:30
Arrival & free choice
Welcoming teachers, calm start, puzzles, books, and open-ended play as families settle in.
8:30 – 9:00
Breakfast & circle time
Nutritious meal together, songs, weather talk, and the day's theme introduction.
9:00 – 11:00
Learning centers & garden
Small-group activities, sensory tables, art, and outdoor exploration in our fenced garden.
11:30 – 12:30
Lunch & rest
Family-style lunch followed by quiet rest or nap time in cozy, supervised rooms.
2:00 – 5:30
Afternoon play & pickup
Snack, movement games, story time, and gentle wind-down until families arrive.
Why Parents Choose Us
Safety, nutrition, nature, and qualified teachers—four pillars you can count on every single day.
Safety First
Secure entry, background-checked staff, emergency plans, and child-safe environments indoors and out.
Nutritious Meals
Balanced breakfast, lunch, and snacks. We accommodate allergies and work with families on dietary needs.
Outdoor Garden
Daily fresh air, gardening projects, and gross-motor play in our shaded, fenced outdoor classroom.
Qualified Teachers
Early childhood credentials, ongoing training, and educators who stay because they love this work.
Life at Our Center
Illustrated glimpses of the spaces and moments that make Elfe feel like a second home.
Bright infant room
Art & sensory table
Story circle
Garden exploration
Music & movement
Homework nook
Families Share
Frequently Asked Questions
We enroll children from 6 weeks through 10 years in our infant, toddler, preschool, and after-school programs. Availability varies by room—contact us for current openings.
Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. We are closed on major public holidays. Early drop-off may be available by arrangement.
Yes. Breakfast, lunch, and an afternoon snack are included. Menus rotate weekly and emphasize whole foods. Please share allergy or dietary information at enrollment.
Children should stay home when they have fever, vomiting, diarrhea, or symptoms of a contagious illness. Return when symptom-free for 24 hours without fever-reducing medication, unless your doctor advises otherwise.
Rates depend on program and schedule (full-time vs. part-time). After your tour we provide a current fee sheet and any applicable registration or supply fees. Sample placeholder—replace with your actual pricing.
Fill out the form below or call our office. We typically schedule tours on weekday mornings and afternoons and welcome both parents and caregivers.
Contact & Tour Request
We would love to meet your family. Reach out or send a tour request—we respond within one business day.
Visit us
- 142 Maple Grove Lane
Springfield, IL 62704 - Phone: (555) 014-2353
- Email: [email protected]
Address and phone above are placeholders—update with your real business details before going live.
Hours
- Mon – Fri: 7:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
- Sat – Sun: Closed