Wauconda, Illinois

Every child arrives home ready to grow

Warm, professional in-home childcare where learning and play are woven together — giving your children a second home filled with curiosity, kindness, and the confidence to thrive.

Trusted by local families
In-home setting
Early learning focus
Children engaged in creative activities at Learn and Play Home Kids Care
A caring moment during after-school care

About Us

A home away from home, where every child belongs

Learn and Play Home Kids Care was founded on a simple conviction: the best early learning happens in the warmth of a real home, with real care, and with a focus on the whole child.

Located on Trailside Lane in Wauconda, our home-based program offers a calm, structured environment where children explore, ask questions, and develop the social and academic skills that carry them forward — not just through school, but through life.

We know that trusting someone with your child is one of the hardest decisions a parent makes. That is why we open our doors to families who value thoughtfulness, communication, and a genuine investment in their child's growth. Every morning begins with a welcome. Every day ends with a conversation about what was learned, laughed about, and accomplished.

Nurturing Environment

A safe, loving home where children feel secure enough to take risks and discover themselves.

Learning Through Play

Play-based activities that build literacy, numeracy, and critical thinking naturally and joyfully.

Family Partnership

Open, honest communication with parents so every child's journey is supported at home and at care.

Our Services

Care that fits your family's rhythm

Flexible, personalized programs designed around your schedule and your child's unique needs.

After-School Care

A welcoming space where homework comes first, followed by creative play, snacks, and the chance to unwind after a long school day. We help children build good habits while having fun.

  • Homework assistance & reading time
  • Creative arts & hands-on projects
  • Healthy afternoon snack included
  • Flexible pickup windows

Summer & Holiday Care

School is out, but learning doesn't have to stop. Our seasonal programs keep children engaged with themed activities, outdoor exploration, and field trips throughout the Wauconda area.

  • Themed weekly activity plans
  • Outdoor play & local outings
  • Flexible daily or weekly scheduling
  • Snacks and refreshments provided

Our Approach

Where curiosity leads, learning follows

We believe that children learn best when they are genuinely engaged — when a question sparks real interest and an activity feels like an adventure rather than a chore.

Observe & Understand

Every child is different. We take time to learn each child's interests, strengths, and the pace at which they learn best.

Plan with Purpose

Activities are thoughtfully designed to build specific skills — language, reasoning, creativity — while feeling like pure play to the child.

Encourage & Celebrate

We celebrate effort over outcome, helping children build resilience, confidence, and a genuine love of learning that lasts.

Communicate & Grow

Parents are partners. We share daily updates, milestones, and insights so the learning continues at home.

Children working on a creative arts and crafts project A child reading a book during quiet time

Our Community

Rooted in Wauconda, raising the next generation

We are proud to serve the families of Wauconda and the surrounding Lake County communities with care that feels personal and consistent.

Nature trail in the Wauconda area

Outdoor Exploration

The natural beauty of Wauconda is our classroom. From nearby parks to nature walks, children experience the outdoors as a vital part of learning and well-being.

Wauconda public library children's section

Local Partnerships

We maintain connections with local libraries, schools, and community programs to enrich our curriculum and expose children to new experiences throughout the year.

Warm family-oriented community gathering

Family-First Values

Our home-based setting means small groups, familiar faces, and a community feel that larger centers simply cannot replicate. Every child is known and valued.

Give your child the gift of a strong start

Ready to find a childcare home that feels right?

We would love to meet you and your family. Schedule a visit to Learn and Play Home Kids Care and see firsthand the warm, nurturing environment where your child can learn, play, and grow.

Get in Touch

We would love to hear from you

Whether you have questions about our programs, want to learn about availability, or are ready to schedule a tour — reach out. We respond to every inquiry personally.

Visit Us

2225 Trailside Ln
Wauconda, IL 60084-5014

Call Us

(224) 628-2400

Hours

Monday – Friday
6:30 AM – 6:00 PM

Send Us a Message

Fill out the form below and we will get back to you within one business day.

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