Degerberg Academy

To be honest, I’m pretty confused by the 'daycare' setup here. Degerberg is definitely more of a martial arts gym than a structured health-focused childcare center. My biggest gripe is the cleanliness of the mats and the gear. It’s a high-traffic spot with adults and kids coming in for kickboxing and self-defense all day, and it often smells like a sweaty gym. I haven't seen a very strict sick-child policy in place, so kids are often coughing on each other during drills. If you're looking for an environment that prioritizes hygiene and wellness protocols, this probably isn't the spot—it feels way more like a training facility than a clean, supervised space for little ones.

My kid has been going here for a bit, and honestly, the vibe is more 'martial arts studio' than a typical daycare, which has its pros and cons for health. The place is an institution in Lincoln Square and the energy is great, but because it's such a busy hub with people coming in and out for different classes, I do worry about germs spreading. They seem to keep the mats and common areas pretty clean, but it’s definitely not that sterile, quiet preschool environment some parents might expect. Communication on sickness is okay—your typical 'keep them home if they have a fever' talk—but they don't have a dedicated nurse on-site like some of the bigger centers around here. It’s a solid spot if you want your kid active, but I've definitely had to deal with the usual Chicago daycare sniffles on repeat.