Cornerstone Children’s Learning Center: A Trusted Leader in Safe, Loving, and Educationally Strong Child Care in Chicago

In today’s fast-paced world, parents are more focused than ever on finding the right early childhood education for their children—one that balances safety, emotional support, and academic readiness. For families in Chicago, Cornerstone Children’s Learning Center (CCLC) has become a leading destination for high-quality early learning programs that meet these needs and more.
Since its founding in 1998, CCLC has grown from a small ministry of LaSalle Street Church into a well-respected, independent nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization. Located conveniently in the vibrant Old Town neighborhood at 1111 N. Wells Street, Suite 200, Cornerstone continues to serve the community by offering exceptional child care and preschool education for children ages six weeks to six years.

A Longstanding Commitment to Early Childhood Education
Cornerstone’s longevity in the field speaks volumes. With more than 25 years of experience, the center has earned a reputation for excellence, compassion, and inclusion. Its mission is clear: to provide a safe, loving, and educationally strong environment where every child can thrive. Unlike many other daycares or preschools in Chicago, CCLC operates with a distinct sense of purpose—helping families by offering access to affordable, high-quality early learning experiences.
This mission is reflected in every aspect of their program, from the daily classroom activities to the diverse staff and welcoming atmosphere. CCLC believes in meeting each child where they are developmentally, emotionally, and socially, while nurturing their natural curiosity through engaging, hands-on learning.
Nationally Accredited, Locally Trusted
What sets Cornerstone Children’s Learning Center apart from many other child care centers in Chicago is its accreditation by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC)—a distinction held by only about 11% of early childhood programs nationwide. This prestigious accreditation signals that CCLC meets the highest standards in teacher qualifications, child development best practices, health and safety protocols, and family engagement.
Parents searching for a NAEYC-accredited preschool in Chicago can feel confident that CCLC offers an educational environment that’s not only safe and nurturing but also academically robust. The center’s adherence to these best practices ensures that children are better prepared for kindergarten and beyond.

Reggio Emilia–Inspired, Play-Based Curriculum
At the heart of CCLC’s approach is a Reggio Emilia–inspired curriculum, which views children as capable, curious, and eager to explore the world around them. This play-based model emphasizes experiential learning, creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration. Educators serve as guides, helping children construct their understanding through open-ended questions, meaningful projects, and plenty of opportunities for exploration.
Unlike rigid or overly academic models, Reggio Emilia encourages active engagement and critical thinking, making it ideal for early childhood development. Teachers are trained to observe children closely, document their learning, and tailor instruction to individual interests and developmental needs.
This thoughtful, responsive curriculum not only fosters cognitive growth but also supports the development of emotional intelligence, language skills, and social connection—all crucial building blocks for long-term success.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at the Core
Cornerstone Children’s Learning Center prides itself on being a truly inclusive child care center. Diversity is not just celebrated; it’s foundational to CCLC’s mission. The staff and families come from a wide range of cultural, racial, and economic backgrounds, creating a rich and dynamic learning environment for children.
CCLC’s commitment to equity and inclusion extends beyond representation. Through culturally responsive teaching, anti-bias training, and community-building events, the center fosters a sense of belonging and mutual respect for every child and family. For parents seeking a diverse preschool in Chicago, CCLC is a standout.

Making Quality Child Care Accessible to All
One of the most critical barriers to high-quality child care is cost. CCLC recognizes this and is committed to making early education affordable for working families. As a nonprofit, the center offers financial assistance programs and works with various public and private partners to subsidize tuition costs for eligible families.
This focus on accessibility ensures that a child’s zip code or a family’s income doesn’t determine the quality of education they receive. In a city like Chicago, where child care can be prohibitively expensive, Cornerstone stands out as a daycare that’s both affordable and high-quality.
Supporting the Whole Child—and the Whole Family
What makes CCLC more than just a child care provider is its holistic approach. Beyond academics and socialization, the center supports the emotional and physical well-being of every child. Meals and snacks are provided, outdoor play is a priority, and daily routines are structured to give children the stability and consistency they need.
Families also receive consistent communication from educators, as well as access to parenting resources and workshops. CCLC views parents as partners and believes in working together to help every child succeed. For many families, this sense of community is what keeps them at Cornerstone year after year.

A Safe, Licensed, and Convenient Location
Safety is always a top priority. CCLC is a fully licensed child care center that adheres to strict safety protocols, including regular health screenings, secure entry systems, CPR-certified staff, and emergency preparedness training.
Its location in Chicago’s Old Town neighborhood offers easy access for families who live or work in nearby areas like Lincoln Park, River North, Gold Coast, or downtown Chicago. With proximity to public transportation and major thoroughfares, the center is a convenient choice for working parents.

Testimonials From Families Who Trust Cornerstone
Over the years, hundreds of families have trusted CCLC with their children’s earliest years. Many praise the nurturing staff, enriching curriculum, and inclusive environment. Common themes in reviews include:
•    "Our child has blossomed at Cornerstone."
•    "The teachers are loving, professional, and truly invested in the kids."
•    "We couldn’t have asked for a better start to our child’s education."
This kind of word-of-mouth reputation is hard to come by—and it reflects the deep trust and satisfaction families have in CCLC.

Learn More or Schedule a Tour Today
If you’re looking for a child care center in Chicago that is safe, inclusive, affordable, and academically enriching, Cornerstone Children’s Learning Center should be at the top of your list.
To learn more about the center’s programs, staff, tuition assistance, or to schedule a tour:
Visit:
Cornerstone Children’s Learning Center
1111 N. Wells Street, Suite 200
Chicago, IL 60610
Call:
312-573-8900
Website:
https://www.cornerstonechildrenslearningcenter.com