Picket Fence Learning Center

Welcome to Picket Fence

At Picket Fence Learning Center, we create meaningful learning experiences that inspire confidence, curiosity, and a lifelong love of discovery.

Our Commitment to Families

We believe childhood should be filled with discovery, encouragement, and joy. Through caring relationships and play-based learning, we help every child reach their full potential.

See Why Families Trust & Recommend Picket Fence Learning Center

Picket Fence Early Care & Education

5.0

Based on 15 reviews

Zee

8 months ago

I’ve had a wonderful experience with this daycare. I love seeing my son walk into his classroom every day with a big smile, it shows how happy and comfortable he feels. Everyone is always friendly and welcoming, and I really appreciate the daily updates because they give me peace of mind. I’ve seen so much growth in my son since he started; he’s already above his milestones and doing great with his letters, numbers, and colors.

Christopher Castellon

8 months ago

Picket Fence has truly become a second home for our son. The staff is so loving, patient, and genuinely invested in each child. It’s clear every day how much they care, and that peace of mind means everything to us as parents. Since starting at Picket Fence, our 2-year-old son has blossomed. His communication, confidence, and social skills have grown so much, and he is always excited and happy to go. Knowing he is safe, supported, and loved makes all the difference. We are incredibly grateful for the amazing team at Picket Fence and cannot recommend them enough.

Gray Dragin

1 year ago

We have absolutely love our experience with Picket Fence. Since our baby started attending, we’ve noticed incredible developmental growth, and it has been amazing to watch. All of the teachers genuinely care about the children, and it shows in the way they interact and nurture each child. We feel very fortunate to have found such a supportive and caring environment for our little one.

Rachel Zabilka

1 year ago

My son started at the beginning of this year and has loved it ever since. He’s had such a positive experience. We couldn’t be happier with all the teachers and staff. Our youngest is starting next week and wouldn’t give it a second thought. My husband and I are very happy we found Picket Fence and would highly recommend to anyone looking! 🤗

Vanessa Armand

1 year ago

Coming from two very negative experiences at other daycares with my son as a toddler and preschoolwr, I was feeling extra-conflicted about where to send my daughter as an infant when I went back to work. I visited this new Picket Fence location (on Grand) with my mom, an early childhood educator of 30+ years, and we immediately agreed that we'd found THE place for my baby to grow, learn, and feel loved when away from home during the day. Every time we drop off or pick up, the staff greet us with genuine enthusiasm and love like we haven't felt elsewhere. The preschool teachers know my 6 yo (who comes to pickup) by name and engaged warmly with him about his day, his outfit, etc. It's a center but it feels like home! The babies in the infant room are so happy! If ever they are crying, it's short lived and only because they're trying to get into the arms of the teachers in that room for extra love!! My 5 mo girl has been so comfortable there that she's been smiling, laughing, and "talking" freely with no tears at dropoff since Day 1 and now is rolling/trying to crawl like her older peer friends! While other places have me anxiety every time we had drop/pickup, I look forward to those moments of my day at Picket Fence on Grand. It's so refreshing to chat with them and to listen to them expertly guiding the kids in learning and socializing.

Miryan Sarabia

2 years ago

My twin girls have been attending picket fence early childcare for about 4 months now. They are 1 years old. This is a nice warm and caring environment. The teachers are very experienced, communicative, and are very nice and caring. My girls love the school and their teachers. They come home with things they worked on throughout the week. They also really enjoy the food that is cooked on site. They also have a nice outdoor playground. I am really happy my girls attend this wonderful center.

Gromatso Gromatso

2 years ago

My daughters have been going to this school since they were 6 months old. They are now 3 and I could not have chosen a better daycare for my girls. This place has become family to us. The staff is what makes it so special. They are patient, energetic/positive, and treat my daughters like their own. All of the teachers have worked here multiple years which speaks volumes to the kind of community they create, a lot of other daycares have high rates of teacher turn around. I trust in this school with my children’s care entirely. We get weekly lesson plan updates to see what our kids are learning, and they’ve been taught more than I ever could have alone, including manners and potty training assistance. My girls have gained a lot of independence and their sharing and socialization skills have strengthened. We moved our girls here when they were babies from another daycare in the area and it was the best decision I made for them. They also have a great nutritional program with daily homemade food- my kids eat more here than they do at home. As a mom, it is so comforting to know I am sending my kids somewhere they are safe and loved every day.

Picket Fence Day Care Center

4.5

Based on 19 reviews

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Gama Escalante

4 months ago

We trusted Picket Fence with two of or children and have no complaints. The facilities are always clean and the teachers are always engaged.

Rosalinda Arteaga

4 months ago

We were recommended to this daycare by a good friend, and it definitely did not disappoint. My daughter has been attending for almost a year now, and we are very happy with our experience.
One thing we really appreciate is how caring and understanding the staff has been with my daughter being a picky eater. With a doctor’s note, they have been working to accommodate her needs, and we’ve actually seen some improvement, which means a lot to us.
The staff is kind, patient, and communicative, and it gives us peace of mind knowing she’s in a safe and supportive environment every day. We’re very grateful we found this daycare and would absolutely recommend it to other families!

Scott Gross

4 months ago

Picket Fence has been a godsend for our family. Especially, for our little boy with special needs. We have peace of mind when our child is there. They look after those children like they are their own. Our boy gets specialized therapy from outside therapist's who come to Picket Fence for him. The teachers, and especially the Director, Lauren, keep a very watchful eye on them. She is fiercely protective of all her children there. We could not have asked for better champions for our boy. We greatly appreciate all the teachers there. They are amazing. We are very happy we found Picket Fence.

Aaron Savanhu

4 months ago

We’ve had a great experience with Pickett Fence Early Learning Center. Both of my kids started there at 2, and I’ve seen a real difference in their growth and confidence. The staff genuinely care, communication is always consistent, and I feel comfortable knowing my kids are in good hands. It’s a place I truly trust and would definitely recommend.

Samkele Ncube

4 months ago

I highly recommend Pickett Fence Early Learning Center. My daughter began attending when she was 2 and has smoothly transitioned into the 3-year-old class, showcasing the great foundation she received. My son started as soon as he turned 2, and I couldn’t have been happier to enroll him there, as I can’t imagine him anywhere else.
The staff is truly exceptional and genuinely caring. They communicate effectively and collaborate with me on all aspects of my children’s development, making me feel supported. The program at Pickett Fence has positively impacted my kids, and I am truly grateful for the nurturing environment they provide.

Victoria Ortiz

11 months ago

My family had a great experience with Picket Fence. The children were always well cared for and the staff patient, attentive and friendly. I’ll always be grateful we had such a wonderful and reliable resource for childcare throughout the years.

Picket Fence Daycare and Learning Center

4.8

Based on 32 reviews

Claudia Escobar

3 months ago

Amazing staff, will always recommend picket fence

Estefani Salto

5 months ago

Loooooove. The staff is great and always willing to help!

Anthony C

6 months ago

My wife and I have been very pleased for the past 10 years with Picket Fence in River Grove. One of our children has gone there, and one is still there. The staff has always been very good with both our children. Leadership has always been very good at keeping us posted of any changes that may have occurred, or handled a problem in a professional manner. The staff works hard to keep the children active on activities or play in the classrooms. We have always appreciated the service of them walking the children to school in the morning, and picking them up in the afternoon. This is very valuable for us on the half days, or the off days the school has. This is an excellent daycare.

Eileen Perez

6 months ago

My son started here in August and I have honestly never been happier with a daycare. The people that work there honestly love children and you can tell this isn't just a job. My son runs into Ms. Norma or Ms. Arianna's arms in the morning and it kind of feels like you're dropping your child off at a family member's house. Not only that, he comes home talking about how much he loves Ms. Julissa and Ms. Liliana. Everyone is so kind. His speech and social skills have greatly improved, there is a real program where the children are learning, I love the photos uploaded on the app, and I am always informed of everything. I highly recommend this daycare and if you're in any local Facebook groups, you'll find this daycare pop up in the comments frequently for parents when asking for child care recommendations.

Marissa Gutierrez

6 months ago

Picket Fence in River Grove is truly an amazing place for children and families. The administration does such a great job creating a positive, supportive environment where kids can grow and thrive. You can tell the staff genuinely care about the children and their development.

What really stands out is how involved everyone is with the kids. The communication, organization, and dedication from the administration make a huge difference. It’s clear that they put a lot of effort into making sure every child feels supported and encouraged.

The children there are wonderful as well — respectful, kind, and full of energy. It really feels like a community that values growth, learning, and strong relationships.

If you’re looking for a place where kids are supported and families feel welcomed, Picket Fence in River Grove is doing an incredible job.

Lisa Gonzalez

6 months ago

We’ve been part of the Picket Fence - River Grove family for years now. Our 3rd oldest son started here when he was just 2 years old, and now he’s 7. From the very beginning, the staff has been incredibly attentive, personable, and genuinely caring. They take the time to understand each child’s individual needs and make both the kids and parents feel supported and comfortable. Because of the positive experience, choosing to bring our 2-year-old here was an easy decision. The teachers and admin staff create such a warm, nurturing environment where children feel safe, encouraged, and excited to learn and grow. It’s clear that the team truly cares about the children they work with, and that kind of dedication makes all the difference as a parent. We’re grateful to have found a place we trust with our kids.

Maria Aziz

1 year ago

My son has been attending this location for almost 2 years now and I couldn’t be happier with my decision to send him here. From the teachers to the management staff, everyone is so friendly and you can tell they all have a deep love for what they do. It took me a year to find a daycare that I trusted and I felt more than comfortable going into Picket Fence for the first time. Not to mention my son is so happy to go to school every single day. Not only does he feel comfortable and safe at Picket Fence, but he has learned so much. I cannot recommend this location enough!

Yania Delgado

1 year ago

The entire staff is always so friendly. The school is clean and well maintained. My daughter loves it here she’s learned so much in just a short period of time. Her Spanish has improved tremendously as well thanks to her teachers. Great school!

What Makes Picket Fence Different

Learning through exploration and discovery

Personalized care for every child

Experienced educators who truly care

Healthy meals served every day

Safe, inclusive learning environments

Flexible programs for growing families

Every day is an opportunity to learn something new.

Children learn naturally through hands-on exploration, creativity, and discovery every day.

Every child is encouraged to learn, grow, and build confidence at their own pace.

Dedicated teachers create a safe, nurturing environment where every child feels valued.

We inspire curiosity, independence, and a lifelong love of learning from the very beginning.

Learning Experiences Designed For Every Stage Of Growth

Supporting The Development Of The Whole Child

Our programs are designed to support each child socially, emotionally, physically, cognitively, and academically through hands on learning experiences and guided classroom activities. We encourage curiosity, creativity, confidence, communication, and problem solving skills in a caring and structured environment.

Creative arts and music activities

Science and discovery exploration

Early literacy and reading development

Math and problem solving experiences

Social interaction and group learning

Helping Children Learn Beyond The Classroom

Picket Fence Learning Center proudly works with local police departments, firefighters, and community organizations to help children learn about safety, responsibility, and community involvement through interactive educational experiences and activities.

Come Experience the Picket Fence Difference in Person

The best way to see what makes Picket Fence Learning Center special is to visit us in person. Schedule a tour and discover our caring teachers, engaging classrooms, and welcoming environment.

Creating Positive Experiences For Children & Families

At Picket Fence Learning Center, we believe children learn best when they feel safe, supported, and encouraged. Our classrooms are designed to promote exploration, independence, social development, and positive relationships while creating a welcoming environment for both children and parents.

Open door policy for families

Peanut and tree nut free facility

Structured classroom routines

Safe indoor and outdoor play areas

Encouraging and supportive teachers

Elmwood Park’s Only NAEYC Accredited Daycare

Committed To Higher Standards In Early Childhood Education

Picket Fence Learning Center is proud to be the only NAEYC accredited daycare and learning center in Elmwood Park. Along with holding the GOLD Circle of Quality through ExceleRate Illinois, our voluntary accreditations reflect our commitment to providing exceptional childcare, safe learning environments, experienced educators, and development focused programs for every child.

NAEYC accredited learning center

GOLD Circle of Quality recognition

High standards for education and safety

Highly Trained and Credentialed Educators

Focused on long term developmental success

Helping Children Learn Beyond The Classroom

Fire safety education activities

Community helper demonstrations

Police and firefighter visits

Hands on learning opportunities

Encouraging confidence and awareness

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Creative Curriculum

Hands On Learning Experiences

Our curriculum supports social, emotional, physical, cognitive, and language development through interactive classroom activities, guided exploration, and age appropriate learning experiences.

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BASEC Program

Before & After School Care

Safe, affordable, and enriching before and after school care for District 401 students with supervised activities, homework time, snacks, games, and social interaction.

Nutrition Program

Healthy Meals & Snacks Daily

Children enjoy nutritious meals and snacks provided through the CACFP program while learning healthy eating habits in a safe, peanut and tree nut free environment.

Cute little children playing with kite outdoors

Frequent Questions

Helpful Information for Families

Find answers about enrollment, programs, schedules, curriculum, safety, classroom policies, meals, and what families can expect at Picket Fence Learning Center.

Welcome to Picket Fence

Our Commitment to Families

See Why Families Trust & Recommend Picket Fence Learning Center

What Makes Picket Fence Different

Every day is an opportunity to learn something new.

Learning Experiences Designed For Every Stage Of Growth

Supporting The Development Of The Whole Child

Helping Children Learn Beyond The Classroom

Come Experience the Picket Fence Difference in Person

Creating Positive Experiences For Children & Families

Elmwood Park’s Only NAEYC Accredited Daycare

Committed To Higher Standards In Early Childhood Education

Helping Children Learn Beyond The Classroom

Hands On Learning Experiences

Before & After School Care

Healthy Meals & Snacks Daily

Helpful Information for Families

Hours of Operation