Child First Academy

Honestly, Child First is okay but it's such a mixed bag. I really appreciate that it's family-owned and feels a bit more personal than the big corporate chains, but the communication about bugs going around the classroom could be way better. It feels like my toddler is perpetually coming home with a runny nose, and while I know that's 'daycare life,' the sick policy seems a bit lax depending on which teacher is working that day. The space looks clean enough when I do drop-off, but with the high-risk food service rating they have, I'm always a little extra cautious about what's going on in the kitchen area. It’s an average Lincoln Park spot—decent, but you definitely have to stay on top of them regarding wellness updates.

My toddler has been at Child First on Diversey for about six months now and overall it's been a solid experience. The place always smells clean when I drop him off, and you can tell the staff really tries to keep up with the constant sanitizing—which is a huge task with that age group! They’re pretty on top of it when it comes to communication too; I usually get an email or a notification through the app the same day if there’s a confirmed case of HFM or a stomach bug going around the classroom. The sick policy is a bit strict about the 24-hour fever-free rule, which can be a pain for working parents, but I honestly appreciate it because it keeps the whole class from catching every little sniffle. Only downside is the transition during flu season can get a little hectic with staffing, but they handle it well.