A Safe Place to Play & Grow
A nurturing daycare where your child builds confidence, explores creativity, and develops essential skills in a safe, loving environment designed for their bright future.
Licensed & Accredited Child Care
Where Little Hearts Grow Big Dreams
Little Bear Daycare was founded on the belief that every child deserves a nurturing space to discover their potential. Our experienced educators create personalized learning experiences that celebrate each child's unique personality and pace. Through play-based learning, creative exploration, and genuine care, we help children build the confidence and social skills that lay the foundation for lifelong success.
Where Little Ones Thrive Every Day
At Little Bear Daycare, we combine expert care with a nurturing approach that helps your child grow, learn, and flourish.
Safe & Secure Environment
State-licensed facility with secure entry, monitored play areas, and staff trained in CPR and first aid.
Experienced Caring Teachers
Our passionate educators bring years of early childhood experience and genuine love for helping children succeed.
Creative Learning Programs
Age-appropriate activities that spark imagination, encourage exploration, and build essential developmental skills.
Organic Meals Included
All organic meals that are healthy, and prepared fresh daily. Strict no nut and gluten facility. daily to fuel growing bodies and developing minds.
Flexible Scheduling Options
Full-time and part-time programs designed to accommodate your family's unique needs and work schedule.
Individual Attention & Care
Small class sizes ensure every child receives personalized attention and support for their unique journey.
Quality Childcare Programs for Every Age
From infants to preschoolers, Little Bear Daycare offers age-appropriate programs designed to nurture growth, learning, and development.
A Day in the Life at Little Bear Daycare
Explore the joy, creativity, and learning that fills every day at our nurturing daycare center.
Your Child's Daily Journey with Us
From morning arrival to afternoon pickup, every moment is filled with learning, play, and growth.
Morning Welcome & Circle Time
Children arrive to warm greetings and gather for songs, stories, and sharing to start the day with connection and excitement.
Creative Learning Activities
Hands-on exploration through art, sensory play, and educational games that spark curiosity and develop critical thinking skills.
Outdoor Play & Discovery
Active time in our safe playground where children build physical skills, explore nature, and enjoy fresh air with friends.
Nutritious Snack & Rest Time
Healthy snacks and quiet rest period help little ones recharge, practice self-care, and prepare for afternoon adventures.
Enrichment & Social Play
Music, movement, and collaborative play activities that foster creativity, teamwork, and emotional development in a joyful setting.
Reflection & Goodbye Circle
Children share their favorite moments, celebrate achievements, and prepare for pickup with confidence and happy memories to share at home.
Where Little Bears Learn and Play
Stop by to tour our facility and meet our caring staff. We're open Monday-Friday, 6:30 AM - 6:00 PM.
Little Bear Daycare - Main Campus
2847 Maple Grove Avenue, Springfield, IL 62704Hours: Monday - Friday, 6:30 AM - 6:00 PM
Phone: (217) 555-0142
Ages: 6 weeks to 5 years
Schedule a tour anytime during operating hours. Drop-ins welcome!
What Families Are Saying About Little Bear Daycare
We're grateful for the trust families place in us. Here's what parents have shared about their experience.
My daughter has blossomed at Little Bear Daycare! The teachers genuinely care about each child's development. She comes home excited to share what she learned every day.
Leaving my son for the first time was emotional, but the staff made the transition so smooth. They send updates throughout the day and I can see how happy he is there.
The creative activities and outdoor play time are amazing. My twins have made wonderful friends and their social skills have improved dramatically since starting here.
Little Bear Daycare feels like a second home for our family. The nurturing environment and patient teachers have helped my shy daughter gain so much confidence.
The curriculum is well-balanced between learning and play. My son is reading ahead of his age group and loves the art projects. Communication with staff is excellent too.
Finding quality childcare was stressful, but Little Bear exceeded my expectations. The flexible hours and caring atmosphere make my work-life balance actually possible.
Meet the Heart of Little Bear Daycare
Our dedicated educators bring warmth, expertise, and passion to every moment, creating a loving home away from home for your child.
With 15 years of early childhood experience and a Master's in Child Development, Maria creates nurturing programs that help every child thrive.
Jane brings creativity and energy to learning through play. her background in art education inspires children to explore their imagination daily.
Certified in infant care and development, Aisha provides gentle, responsive care that builds secure attachments and supports early milestones.
Sophie's warm smile and patient nature make transitions easy for little ones. She specializes in social-emotional learning and conflict resolution.
David enriches our curriculum with songs, rhythm, and dance. His interactive sessions build coordination, confidence, and a love for music.
Rachel prepares healthy, delicious meals that fuel growing bodies. She accommodates all dietary needs with care and creativity.
Give Your Child the Best Start at Little Bear Daycare
Schedule a tour and see how our nurturing environment helps children thrive, learn, and grow every day.
Frequently Asked Questions
We're here to answer your questions about Little Bear Daycare and help you feel confident in your choice.
What are your operating hours?
Little Bear Daycare is open Monday through Friday from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. We offer flexible drop-off and pick-up times to accommodate working parents' schedules.
What age groups do you accept?
We welcome children from 6 weeks to 5 years old. Our classrooms are organized by age-appropriate developmental stages to ensure each child receives the right level of care and learning.
What is your staff-to-child ratio?
We maintain low ratios that exceed state requirements: 1:4 for infants, 1:6 for toddlers, and 1:10 for preschoolers. This ensures personalized attention and a safe environment for every child.
Do you provide meals and snacks?
Yes! We provide nutritious breakfast, lunch, and two snacks daily. All meals are prepared fresh on-site and accommodate common allergies and dietary restrictions.
What curriculum do you follow?
We use a play-based learning approach that promotes creativity, social skills, and early literacy. Our curriculum includes art, music, outdoor exploration, and age-appropriate educational activities.
How do you handle sick children?
Children with fevers, contagious illnesses, or symptoms like vomiting must stay home until symptom-free for 24 hours. This policy protects all children and staff at our center.
Can I visit the facility before enrolling?
Absolutely! We encourage parents to schedule a tour of Little Bear Daycare. You'll meet our staff, see our classrooms, and ask any questions you have about our programs.
What safety measures do you have in place?
Our facility features secure entry systems, surveillance cameras, regular safety drills, and staff trained in CPR and first aid. Background checks are required for all employees.
Do you offer part-time enrollment options?
Yes, we offer both full-time and part-time enrollment options. Part-time schedules can be customized to fit your family's needs, with a minimum of three days per week.
How do you communicate with parents during the day?
We use a parent app that provides real-time updates, photos, daily reports on meals and naps, and direct messaging with teachers. You'll stay connected to your child's day at Daycare.
Helpful Resources & Links
Connect with Little Bear Daycare and access important resources for parents.
What to know about the 'terrible twos'
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Separation Anxiety
This article discusses some important things about leaving your child at school
Let's Talk About Your Child's Future
We'd love to hear from you! Whether you're looking for a tour of Little Bear Daycare or have questions about enrollment, our caring team is here to help.