Early Connections Childcare serves children ages six weeks to five years in Lockport, Illinois, offering a warm, nurturing environment tailored to each child's needs. We are child-led and play-based, with thoughtful, intentional routines and respectful guidance that help children feel secure, capable, and confident as they explore and grow.
Early learning with higher standards
~ ~ ~ “We are so grateful we found Early Connections. My three year old is thriving here and she loves it! I am so glad she and her younger brother can learn and thrive there together. We could not recommend Early Connections enough!” - Sarah S.
~ ~ ~ “My kids love Nene and Miss.H. My oldest gets so excited every morning to see them and her friends. They were so patient working with my youngest through bottle feeding. I love sending my kids somewhere I have peace of mind.” - Cate N.
~ ~ ~ “We needed someone we could trust for our little guy when we relocated to the Plainfield and Naperville area. Nene and Miss.H have been safe havens for him. Knowing she teaches preschool curriculum too makes me feel secure knowing. he is learning, growing, and socializing.” - Kyana W.
~ ~ ~ “We have put both of our kids in the care of Anita at Early Connections. We would not have it any other way. Communication has always been a top priority for us, and we have not been disappointed. We always feel like our son is safe and happy. I would highly recommend Early Connection to anyone with small children.” - Brittany D. T.
~ ~ ~ “We are so grateful we found Early Connections. My three year old is thriving here and she loves it! I am so glad she and her younger brother can learn and thrive there together. We could not recommend Early Connections enough!” - Sarah S. ~ ~ ~ “My kids love Nene and Miss.H. My oldest gets so excited every morning to see them and her friends. They were so patient working with my youngest through bottle feeding. I love sending my kids somewhere I have peace of mind.” - Cate N. ~ ~ ~ “We needed someone we could trust for our little guy when we relocated to the Plainfield and Naperville area. Nene and Miss.H have been safe havens for him. Knowing she teaches preschool curriculum too makes me feel secure knowing. he is learning, growing, and socializing.” - Kyana W. ~ ~ ~ “We have put both of our kids in the care of Anita at Early Connections. We would not have it any other way. Communication has always been a top priority for us, and we have not been disappointed. We always feel like our son is safe and happy. I would highly recommend Early Connection to anyone with small children.” - Brittany D. T.
Higher standards in the details
Real food focus: We aim for organic, nutrient-rich meals and snacks, and we avoid artificial dyes, added sugars, and unnecessary additives whenever possible.
Dedicated indoor shoes: Clean indoor shoes help reduce what is tracked into classrooms, keeping play and learning areas cleaner, safer, and more hygienic for little feet and hands.
Gentle cleaning approach: We avoid harsh chemicals and select child-safe, non-toxic products that effectively clean while protecting health and delicate developing systems.
Calm, organized classrooms: Natural materials, thoughtful routines, soft transitions, and a peaceful flow to the day create a soothing, focused environment for exploration and learning.
Respectful guidance: Clear boundaries paired with warm support, empathy, and skillful emotional coaching help children build self-regulation, confidence, and positive social skills.