ECC Childcare FAQ

The Early Childhood Lab School is open to both ECC students and employees. Students enrolled in dual enrollment programs, such as NIU 2+2, may also qualify to use the lab school.

We offer full- and part-time early learning and preschool programs for children ages six weeks to five years old. Children receive safe, dependable, and caring support in a convenient on-campus location—at affordable rates for families.

Child care services are available to currently enrolled ECC students and college employees.

To calculate your total childcare cost for the semester, use this formula:

Number of time blocks per week × rate per block × number of weeks = total semester cost

Example:
A student with a 2-year-old enrolled Mondays and Wednesdays from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. (4 time blocks per week) for a 17-week semester would calculate:

4 time blocks/week × $16 per block = $64 per week
$64 × 17 weeks = $1,088 total for the semester

See Infant and Toddler Program Cost Details

See Preschool Program Cost Details

After your total semester childcare charges are added to your Student Account, you can either pay in full or set up a payment plan, just like you do for tuition and fees.

Financial aid and state childcare subsidies are accepted and will be applied directly to your Student Account.

Because space is limited each semester, we encourage you to register early. For more information, call 847-214-7376 or email ECLS@elgin.edu.

You can enroll your child in the ECC Early Childhood Lab School either in person or by email.

To get started, complete the enrollment form or contact us to request the necessary forms.

• In person: Visit Building M, Room M137

• By email: ECLS@elgin.edu

Before your child’s first day, please make sure to submit the required documents:

• Birth certificate

• Medical records

• Emergency contact information

• Signed emergency release forms

Our team is happy to help you with the process and answer any questions along the way!

Not at this time. The Early Childhood Lab School is a semester-based program, so children must be enrolled for the full term to participate.

Yes! You can use the center while you’re in class, studying, or at work. The ECC Child Care Center is open year-round when classes are in session. If your classes start before 8 a.m., we’ll do our best to accommodate your schedule.