Our Mission
Why Families Choose JCYS
From your baby’s first snuggle to your preschooler’s proudest big-kid moments, every stage brings new discoveries. JCYS offers trusted childcare and learning from 6 weeks to 5 years, with flexible options to fit your family’s needs, all rooted in Jewish culture and values and open to families of every background.
Infant care, toddler care, preschool, and pre-k programming are offered at our locations in Buffalo Grove, Highland Park, Lincoln Square Ravenswood, and Wicker Park.
01
A place for every family
Families of all backgrounds are welcomed into a caring, inclusive community.
02
Educators who nurture
Our staff bring experience, dedication, and a genuine love for teaching. They guide, encourage, and celebrate each child.
03
Learning and growth
Our programs nurture curiosity, confidence, empathy, and creativity while supporting each child’s whole development.
04
Family support
We know parenting takes a village. Our child and family development specialists offer guidance and resources so families feel confident and supported, both in the classroom and at home.
05
Outdoor exploration
From suburban play areas to a rooftop play space and nearby parks, children have room to climb, run, and explore.
06
Celebrating traditions
Through Shabbat, songs, stories, holidays, and family celebrations, we connect and honor traditions.
07
Parent partnership
From joining parent committees to serving on our board, parents help strengthen our community.
Family Voices
Hear From JCYS Families
“
One of the most meaningful gifts JCYS has given our family is a deeper connection to our Jewish traditions. We never imagined that at such a young age, Jewish songs, holidays, rituals, and traditions would become such a natural and joyful part of our everyday lives. We truly can’t imagine sending our son to a daycare that doesn’t smell like challah on a Friday morning.
JCYS Parent
· Wicker Park
“
JCYS Highland Park has been such a wonderful first full-day school experience for our twins. In just a short time, we’ve watched them grow from toddlers into confident, curious little kids. They’re learning to count, spell their names, listen and follow directions, and most importantly, they’re making friends and building relationships of their own. Hearing them talk about their friends and seeing how excited they are to walk into school each morning has been the best part. We couldn’t be happier with the experience!
JCYS Parent
· Highland Park
“
Within his first week, our son was hitting developmental milestones and doing things we hadn’t seen in the three months he spent at his previous center. As a parent, the growth has been incredible to witness.
JCYS Parent
· Lincoln Square Ravenswood
“
Choosing JCYS has been the single best decision we’ve made as parents. As a working mom, whenever I felt sad about not having enough time with my kids, I reminded myself they were with the best teachers and friends doing all manner of creative and enriching activities that I could never think up at home.
JCYS Parent
· Wicker Park
A Home Base for Life at JCYS
Our Parent Corner is your one-stop hub for calendars, handbooks, billing, and everything else you need throughout the school year. No digging through email threads. Just one place to find what you need, when you need it.
It’s one more way we make life easier for busy families, from your very first tour through every school year that follows.
