Address: 6048 S Ashland Chicago IL 60636

ABOUT US

Rooted in Care, Growing with Love

We believe every child deserves a safe and inspiring place to flourish

Where It All Began

Learn & Play was founded on the belief that every child deserves a bright start.

Learn & Play Childcare was founded on the belief that every child deserves a safe, loving place to grow, learn, and thrive.

Our story began with a mission to create a childcare center where children feel at home while discovering the world through play and hands-on learning. What started in 2008 as a passionate dream of our founder, Khalilah Stokes, has grown into a trusted center serving families across Chicago.

With over 20 years of experience, we’ve built a warm, supportive community for infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and school-aged children. Every day, we focus on nurturing curiosity, building confidence, and preparing children for a lifetime of learning.

Nurturing Minds, Shaping Futures.

Our mission is to provide a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment where children can learn, grow, and thrive through hands-on experiences and loving guidance.

At Learn & Play Childcare, every child is valued, respected, and encouraged to explore their curiosity. Through engaging activities and personalized care, we foster confidence, creativity, and a lifelong love of learning.

Planting the Seeds of Tomorrow’s Success.

Our vision is to inspire a lifelong love of learning by fostering curiosity, creativity, and confidence in every child we serve.

We are committed to being a trusted leader in early childhood care, offering a warm, inclusive space where children build the skills, resilience, and character to succeed in school and in life. Together with families, we cultivate future leaders who will positively impact their communities and the world.

The Heart Behind

Learn & Play Childcare

Passionate educators dedicated

to nurturing your child’s growth.

Meet the Owner

With more than 20 years of experience in the childcare industry, Khalilah has grown from running a home-based program to operating a thriving center.

As a director-qualified professional, she is deeply committed to creating a safe, educational, and nurturing environment where every child feels protected and supported.

Khalilah’s passion for early learning shines through in her focus on quality education, structured programs, and hands-on activities that spark curiosity and growth. She takes pride in building strong relationships with families, guiding her team with excellence, and ensuring that each child is given the tools to succeed not only in school, but in life.

Infant Teacher

Timmyah holds a CDA Credential along with certifications in Food & Sanitation, CPR, and First Aid. With a special passion for caring for infants, she brings warmth, patience, and attentiveness to the youngest children in our center.

Timmyah loves supporting babies through each stage of early development and takes pride in creating a safe, loving environment where they can grow and thrive.

Lead Teacher

Talilah has three years of experience in early childhood education and is known for her energetic, patient, and cheerful approach with children. She holds a CDA Credential as well as certifications in Food & Sanitation, CPR, and First Aid, reflecting her commitment to providing a safe and nurturing environment.

Talilah is currently pursuing her college studies to become director qualified, furthering

her dedication to leadership and excellence in childcare.

Lead Teacher

With over 10 years in childcare and a bilingual teaching background, Cynthia blends warmth, structure, and cultural inclusivity.

She is passionate about fostering a safe space where all children can learn and grow while embracing diversity.

Assistant Teacher

As both a mother and an experienced caregiver, Kimberly offers patience, compassion, and a nurturing touch, especially for infants.

She creates a calm, comforting environment where young children can explore, develop, and feel truly cared for.

Helping Your Child Flourish!

Explore our thoughtfully designed programs and services, tailored to help your child grow and thrive at every stage.

Infant Care

(6 weeks-18 months)

Gentle, nurturing care focused on safety, sensory play, and development.

Toddler Program

(15 months-2 years)

Hands-on learning, early communication, and social interaction in a safe space.

Preschool Preparation

(3-5 years):

Structured learning with a focus on kindergarten readiness through fun, age-appropriate activities.

Before

& After School Care

(5-12 years)

Homework help, enrichment activities, and safe supervision for school-aged children.

Summer Camp

& Holiday Breaks

Fun, educational programming when school is out—including arts, outdoor play, and themed activities.

Transportation

Services

Safe and reliable pick-up and drop-off for school-aged children.

Licensing & Certifications

At Learn and Play Childcare, safety and quality come first. Our team maintains professional credentials and follows state guidelines so your child is cared for by qualified, trusted professionals every day.

The Best Start Begins at Learn & Play Childcare

Discover why families trust Learn & Play Childcare to nurture their children’s growth and development.

Choosing childcare is a big decision. At Learn & Play Childcare, we pair warm, responsive care with playful, age-appropriate learning. Our classrooms balance structure and freedom so children feel safe, loved, and excited to explore—while their unique potential is celebrated every day.

  • Licensed program with caring, trained educators

  • Play-based, age-appropriate curriculum

  • Safe, engaging indoor and outdoor play areas

  • Clear communication and daily updates for families

Frequently Asked Questions

We’ve compiled answers to our most frequently asked questions to help you feel confident in your choice.

What are your hours of operation?

We’re open Monday–Friday from 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM to accommodate working families.

Do you provide meals and snacks?

Yes, we provide nutritious meals and snacks tailored to your child’s dietary needs.

What is your child-to-staff ratio?

Our small group sizes ensure individual attention for every child, following or exceeding Illinois state ratio requirements for each age group.

How do you handle emergencies?

All staff are CPR and First Aid certified. We have clear emergency procedures, maintain updated contact information, and practice monthly safety drills.

Can I visit during the day?

We welcome parents for scheduled visits and special events. For security, we require check-in at the front desk before entering classrooms.

What safety measures do you have in place?

Our facility features secure keypad entry, locked perimeters, and monitored access. We also conduct regular safety drills and maintain strict pick-up protocols to keep every child safe.

Words from Our Happy Families!

Here’s what parents are saying about their Learn & Play Childcare experience

☆☆☆☆☆

My son runs in smiling every morning.

Jenna P.,

mom of 3-year-old

☆☆☆☆☆

The daily photos give me peace of mind.

Alisha K.,

mom of infant

☆☆☆☆☆

Teachers know my child and it shows.

Nate S.,

dad of 2-year-old

Ready to See Your Child Bloom?

Take the first step toward a brighter future—contact SPROUT today to schedule a tour!

Stay in the Know!

Call Us

(312) 687-6394

Email Us

[email protected]

Growing Together,

Every Step of the Way.

(Spaces Limited, Hurry!)

Growing Together,

Every Step of the Way.

Address: 6048 S Ashland Chicago IL 60636

Hours: 6:30am - 6:00pm

6048 S Ashland Ave, Chicago, IL 60636, USA

© Learn & Play Childcare LLC 2025 All Rights Reserved. Website designed, developed & managed by TGS Marketing