Welcome to
Picket Fence

At Picket Fence Learning Center, we create meaningful learning experiences that inspire confidence, curiosity, and a lifelong love of discovery.

Our Commitment to Families

We believe childhood should be filled with discovery, encouragement, and joy. Through caring relationships and play-based learning, we help every child reach their full potential.

See Why Families Trust & Recommend Picket Fence Learning Center

Anthony P.
1 month ago
I was pleased to have my son from age 4 -10 at Picket Fence in the circle. He received great care , great learning experiences and lots of fun. He attended before / after school, school breaks, summer camp and loved every second of it. It was the best decision I made when I moved to the area. From my family to our extended family of Picket Fence, I want to say thank you
Gama E.
5 months ago
We trusted Picket Fence with two of or children and have no complaints. The facilities are always clean and the teachers are always engaged.
Rosalinda A.
5 months ago
We were recommended to this daycare by a good friend, and it definitely did not disappoint. My daughter has been attending for almost a year now, and we are very happy with our experience. One thing we really appreciate is how caring and understanding the staff has been with my daughter being a picky eater. With a doctor’s note, they have been working to accommodate her needs, and we’ve actually seen some improvement, which means a lot to us. The staff is kind, patient, and communicative, and it gives us peace of mind knowing she’s in a safe and supportive environment every day. We’re very grateful we found this daycare and would absolutely recommend it to other families!
Scott G.
5 months ago
Picket Fence has been a godsend for our family. Especially, for our little boy with special needs. We have peace of mind when our child is there. They look after those children like they are their own. Our boy gets specialized therapy from outside therapist's who come to Picket Fence for him. The teachers, and especially the Director, Lauren, keep a very watchful eye on them. She is fiercely protective of all her children there. We could not have asked for better champions for our boy. We greatly appreciate all the teachers there. They are amazing. We are very happy we found Picket Fence.
Aaron S.
5 months ago
We’ve had a great experience with Pickett Fence Early Learning Center. Both of my kids started there at 2, and I’ve seen a real difference in their growth and confidence. The staff genuinely care, communication is always consistent, and I feel comfortable knowing my kids are in good hands. It’s a place I truly trust and would definitely recommend.
Samkele N.
5 months ago
I highly recommend Pickett Fence Early Learning Center. My daughter began attending when she was 2 and has smoothly transitioned into the 3-year-old class, showcasing the great foundation she received. My son started as soon as he turned 2, and I couldn’t have been happier to enroll him there, as I can’t imagine him anywhere else. The staff is truly exceptional and genuinely caring. They communicate effectively and collaborate with me on all aspects of my children’s development, making me feel supported. The program at Pickett Fence has positively impacted my kids, and I am truly grateful for the nurturing environment they provide.
Victoria O.
12 months ago
My family had a great experience with Picket Fence. The children were always well cared for and the staff patient, attentive and friendly. I’ll always be grateful we had such a wonderful and reliable resource for childcare throughout the years.
Arabella S.
2 years ago
My daughter is two and has a bit of a receptive communication delay. But the staff here are so patient and considerate of her, and the room for her age group is clean and fun.
Caroline M.
2 years ago
I am so grateful for the positive experience my child has had at Picket Fence. From day one, the staff has been incredibly welcoming, caring, and professional. The teachers are genuinely passionate about helping each child grow socially, emotionally, and academically. The curriculum is well-balanced, with a perfect mix of learning and play, and I’ve loved seeing my child engage in activities that foster creativity, curiosity, and a love for learning. If you’re looking for a preschool that offers a nurturing environment, dedicated teachers, and a well-rounded approach to early education, I highly recommend Picket Fence.
Ashley M.
2 years ago
We have been a Picket Fence family for 3 years, with both our children attending. We counted down the days until our youngest could start as soon as he turned 2. I can’t say enough good things about the center. From Toni to Lauren to every teacher, everyone is exceptional. They truly love the children and being a part of PF feels like being part of a family. Our children are always learning, getting to express their creativity, the activities are endless and the communication is top notch. The staff is always coming up with new activities for the kids - field trips, bubble and magic shows, gymnastics, pool days, spirit weeks, trunk or treat, grandparents day, etc. I’m so happy to have a safe and loving place to send our children!
Keyla P.
2 years ago
My son was at Picket Fence for a year. He had a blast. He loved his teachers there. They always welcomed him with open arms and updated me throughout the day. My son is really shy and doesn’t really warm up to people that fast but he got attached to his teachers in the toddler classroom. I trust them and super grateful for the care they provided for my son this past year. Definitely recommend this daycare.
Ashley C.
2 years ago
Picket fence has been a huge blessing to mine and my daughter’s life. The staff is very friendly, the director and owner are very easy to get in touch with for any questions or concerns, which make it that much easier to trust that your child is left in great hands. If you are looking for a safe, fun, place to send your child look no further, you won’t regret sending your child here!
Christine V.
2 years ago
I have been a member of the Picket Fence family for 5 years now. My son was there for 3 years and now my daughter is on her second year. We all love it! It feels great going to work (especially fighting mom guilt) knowing my kids are in good hands! Always friendly faces, happy staff and happier kids! My kids always have so much to say about their day. Ms. Toni, Ms. Lauren, Ms. Martha, Ms. Fatima and all the other teachers are such a blessing to have watch over my children. Highly recommend this daycare!
ONALIS M.
4 years ago
Mark V.
9 years ago
My friends have kids here and they absolutely love it. Great staff that work well with children.
Arturo N.
10 years ago
Banter H.
11 years ago
Andy A
1 month ago
Zee
9 months ago
I’ve had a wonderful experience with this daycare. I love seeing my son walk into his classroom every day with a big smile, it shows how happy and comfortable he feels. Everyone is always friendly and welcoming, and I really appreciate the daily updates because they give me peace of mind. I’ve seen so much growth in my son since he started; he’s already above his milestones and doing great with his letters, numbers, and colors.
Picket Fence has truly become a second home for our son. The staff is so loving, patient, and genuinely invested in each child. It’s clear every day how much they care, and that peace of mind means everything to us as parents. Since starting at Picket Fence, our 2-year-old son has blossomed. His communication, confidence, and social skills have grown so much, and he is always excited and happy to go. Knowing he is safe, supported, and loved makes all the difference. We are incredibly grateful for the amazing team at Picket Fence and cannot recommend them enough.
Gray Dragin
1 year ago
We have absolutely love our experience with Picket Fence. Since our baby started attending, we’ve noticed incredible developmental growth, and it has been amazing to watch. All of the teachers genuinely care about the children, and it shows in the way they interact and nurture each child. We feel very fortunate to have found such a supportive and caring environment for our little one.
Rachel Zabilka
1 year ago
My son started at the beginning of this year and has loved it ever since. He’s had such a positive experience. We couldn’t be happier with all the teachers and staff. Our youngest is starting next week and wouldn’t give it a second thought. My husband and I are very happy we found Picket Fence and would highly recommend to anyone looking! 🤗
Vanessa Armand
1 year ago
Coming from two very negative experiences at other daycares with my son as a toddler and preschoolwr, I was feeling extra-conflicted about where to send my daughter as an infant when I went back to work. I visited this new Picket Fence location (on Grand) with my mom, an early childhood educator of 30+ years, and we immediately agreed that we'd found THE place for my baby to grow, learn, and feel loved when away from home during the day. Every time we drop off or pick up, the staff greet us with genuine enthusiasm and love like we haven't felt elsewhere. The preschool teachers know my 6 yo (who comes to pickup) by name and engaged warmly with him about his day, his outfit, etc. It's a center but it feels like home! The babies in the infant room are so happy! If ever they are crying, it's short lived and only because they're trying to get into the arms of the teachers in that room for extra love!! My 5 mo girl has been so comfortable there that she's been smiling, laughing, and "talking" freely with no tears at dropoff since Day 1 and now is rolling/trying to crawl like her older peer friends! While other places have me anxiety every time we had drop/pickup, I look forward to those moments of my day at Picket Fence on Grand. It's so refreshing to chat with them and to listen to them expertly guiding the kids in learning and socializing.
Miryan Sarabia
2 years ago
My twin girls have been attending picket fence early childcare for about 4 months now. They are 1 years old. This is a nice warm and caring environment. The teachers are very experienced, communicative, and are very nice and caring. My girls love the school and their teachers. They come home with things they worked on throughout the week. They also really enjoy the food that is cooked on site. They also have a nice outdoor playground. I am really happy my girls attend this wonderful center.
Crystal
2 years ago
My daughters have attended this day care since they were 3 months old when it was first called A-Karrasel. I have taken my kids here for the past 6 years. The staff and teachers at this daycare treat them like their own and show interest in them. My daughters love them all and can’t wait to go to daycare.
julieta aguilera
2 years ago
My child started at A-Karrasel now Picket Fence just at the age of 1. It was a rough start just like it would be for any child at a change of environment. As time went by we noticed how our son loved being at Picket Fence. He has shown signs of improvement in every aspect. Speech, sensory, behavioral, the list can go on. We are so happy that he attended for the last 2 years. He is now a brilliant 3 year old. We are forever thankful for this child care center. The teachers and care takers are amazing. Thank you for everything.
My family & 2 year old son loves this daycare! Already on his second day he was excited to stay! My son has a speech delay & they have helped him grow so much and strengthen his speech!
The staff is polite, very friendly, and professional. They did a great job helping my son adjust to daycare. The room is clean and stocked with plenty of age appropriate toys and games. The staff always keeps parents up to date with any important information. It’s a very friendly and warm environment and my son is always happy to go to daycare.
Wendy Figueroa
2 years ago
This place is so wonderful my daughter has been attending this facility ince she was 15 months old she is now 4. She loves all the teachers and they make her feel so loved. I don't know what would i would do with all these wonderful staff. I would definitely recommend anyone looking for a learning center for their kids.
Alberta Pack
2 years ago
The staff are loving very professional.My granddaughter has learned so much we are seeing . We couldn't ask for a better daycare. If your looking for a place for your child ,check them out.
George Soto
2 years ago
Picket fence is awesome. It’s a really great daycare. My daughter loves everybody. They were able to capture my baby’s first steps on video along with so many great photos. They take great care of all the kids. I feel happy and comfortable to leave my daughter with them.
My daughter loves going to daycare everyday. Her teachers Ms. Sarah and Ms. Beth are the best! I’m very happy with their approach and teaching. My girl has been getting so much better with her social skills and learning overall. Highly recommend it!
My daughters have been going to this school since they were 6 months old. They are now 3 and I could not have chosen a better daycare for my girls. This place has become family to us. The staff is what makes it so special. They are patient, energetic/positive, and treat my daughters like their own. All of the teachers have worked here multiple years which speaks volumes to the kind of community they create, a lot of other daycares have high rates of teacher turn around. I trust in this school with my children’s care entirely. We get weekly lesson plan updates to see what our kids are learning, and they’ve been taught more than I ever could have alone, including manners and potty training assistance. My girls have gained a lot of independence and their sharing and socialization skills have strengthened. We moved our girls here when they were babies from another daycare in the area and it was the best decision I made for them. They also have a great nutritional program with daily homemade food- my kids eat more here than they do at home. As a mom, it is so comforting to know I am sending my kids somewhere they are safe and loved every day.
Daisy Garcia
1 month ago
River grove Picket fence by far has been everything a daycare should be. They are all amazing and as a parent i can't say thank you enough to how well they all took care of my daughter, I am beyond thankful! You guys are all amazing! thank you so much for always being a part of my growing daughter she will miss you all.
TERESA ZEPEDA
1 month ago
We couldn’t be more grateful for the wonderful experience our daughter Emily had at this daycare! From the very beginning, we felt welcomed, supported, and confident that she was in loving and caring hands. The teachers and staff truly go above and beyond. Their love, dedication, patience, and commitment to the children are evident in everything they do. Over the years, they have helped our daughter learn, grow, build confidence, and create so many wonderful memories. It’s not easy to find a daycare where you genuinely feel that your child is cared for like family, but that is exactly how we felt here. Getting a glimpse into her day through the daily picture updates was something we truly appreciated. It was so wonderful to see her having fun, learning, and making special memories throughout the day. We will always be thankful for the positive impact the teachers and staff have had on Emily and our family. Five stars is not enough! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ We highly recommend this daycare to any family looking for a safe, nurturing, and loving place for their child. We will truly miss everyone and will always be grateful for the care and kindness they showed our daughter. ❤️
Claudia Escobar
4 months ago
Amazing staff, will always recommend picket fence
Estefani Salto
6 months ago
Loooooove. The staff is great and always willing to help!
Anthony C
7 months ago
My wife and I have been very pleased for the past 10 years with Picket Fence in River Grove. One of our children has gone there, and one is still there. The staff has always been very good with both our children. Leadership has always been very good at keeping us posted of any changes that may have occurred, or handled a problem in a professional manner. The staff works hard to keep the children active on activities or play in the classrooms. We have always appreciated the service of them walking the children to school in the morning, and picking them up in the afternoon. This is very valuable for us on the half days, or the off days the school has. This is an excellent daycare.
Eileen Perez
7 months ago
My son started here in August and I have honestly never been happier with a daycare. The people that work there honestly love children and you can tell this isn't just a job. My son runs into Ms. Norma or Ms. Arianna's arms in the morning and it kind of feels like you're dropping your child off at a family member's house. Not only that, he comes home talking about how much he loves Ms. Julissa and Ms. Liliana. Everyone is so kind. His speech and social skills have greatly improved, there is a real program where the children are learning, I love the photos uploaded on the app, and I am always informed of everything. I highly recommend this daycare and if you're in any local Facebook groups, you'll find this daycare pop up in the comments frequently for parents when asking for child care recommendations.
Marissa Gutierrez
7 months ago
Picket Fence in River Grove is truly an amazing place for children and families. The administration does such a great job creating a positive, supportive environment where kids can grow and thrive. You can tell the staff genuinely care about the children and their development. What really stands out is how involved everyone is with the kids. The communication, organization, and dedication from the administration make a huge difference. It’s clear that they put a lot of effort into making sure every child feels supported and encouraged. The children there are wonderful as well — respectful, kind, and full of energy. It really feels like a community that values growth, learning, and strong relationships. If you’re looking for a place where kids are supported and families feel welcomed, Picket Fence in River Grove is doing an incredible job.
Lisa Gonzalez
7 months ago
We’ve been part of the Picket Fence - River Grove family for years now. Our 3rd oldest son started here when he was just 2 years old, and now he’s 7. From the very beginning, the staff has been incredibly attentive, personable, and genuinely caring. They take the time to understand each child’s individual needs and make both the kids and parents feel supported and comfortable. Because of the positive experience, choosing to bring our 2-year-old here was an easy decision. The teachers and admin staff create such a warm, nurturing environment where children feel safe, encouraged, and excited to learn and grow. It’s clear that the team truly cares about the children they work with, and that kind of dedication makes all the difference as a parent. We’re grateful to have found a place we trust with our kids.
I love this place! My nephew went back in 2017 and we loved it, and now 2024 my daughter and son goes here and now it feels like a family tradition bringing our kids here, the staffs is really nice , the teachers really appreciate and take care of the kids! ❤️ amazing educational services
Breana Pierik
1 year ago
Jenifer Pierik
1 year ago
Inviting environment, friendly and attentive staff. Great place for daycare!
Tess Arriaga
1 year ago
An absolutely FABULOUS daycare center. Clean location with knowledgeable staff. Very professional. Would suggest to anyone with kiddos.
What an amazing daycare we love ms. Nicole!!!
Maria Aziz
1 year ago
My son has been attending this location for almost 2 years now and I couldn’t be happier with my decision to send him here. From the teachers to the management staff, everyone is so friendly and you can tell they all have a deep love for what they do. It took me a year to find a daycare that I trusted and I felt more than comfortable going into Picket Fence for the first time. Not to mention my son is so happy to go to school every single day. Not only does he feel comfortable and safe at Picket Fence, but he has learned so much. I cannot recommend this location enough!
I don’t have enough words to describe how much we LOVE Picket Fence. Our 6 year old twin boys have been going here for the past 3 years and they have been so helpful. Our boys have learned and grown so much at Picket Fence. The teachers and the directors are awesome and really stand out. Our boys previously went to a different preschool before this one and there’s no comparison! We would highly recommend Picket Fence in River Grove to any parent looking for a good daycare/preschool after/before care program. 5/5 stars!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Yania Delgado
1 year ago
The entire staff is always so friendly. The school is clean and well maintained. My daughter loves it here she’s learned so much in just a short period of time. Her Spanish has improved tremendously as well thanks to her teachers. Great school!
Katie Bingaman
1 year ago
We love Picket Fence River Grove and all the amazing staff! When you walk in you are greated by the best (Ms. Nicole and Ms. Tanesha and the occasional Ms. Toni!!) always smiling and available to help with anything you need and always make my child feel special and welcome! The teachers are simply wonderful ❤️ Making sure your child is safe and feeling very loved everyday! Teaching my child new things I couldn't even believe she understood. My daughter has grown to be such a smart, friendly, fearless little girl and a huge portion of that is thanks to the teachers here at Picket Fence! One teacher in particular has helped my daughter from her very first day and has made such a huge impact on her life. Ms. Norma always makes my child feel safe, special, and most of all very loved. My daughter has made friends and loves to come to school. She started Picket fence barley able to speak mostly using sign language to communicate. Picket fence staff went above and beyond to not only learn the signs she used but also to put up a sign of sign language to help her further. Also providing me resources to help her with speech therapy. One year later she no longer signs but is able to speak full sentences that you can understand and is very confident in herself talking. Going to this school was the best decision I have made for my child. Working full time the hours are amazing and that is very hard to find. I can confidently say she is in good hands! (All thanks to my sister for recommending) We love Picket Fence River Grove and I would (and I do regularly), recommend this school to anyone looking to make that step to enroll their child into a great school! Thank you Picket Fence River Grove staff for all you do for my girl!!
Lisa Rodriguez
1 year ago
Definitely recommend for any parents looking for a safe haven for their children! The administration is amazing and so helpful, they work with thru anything. The teachers care immensely for their students, they keep you updated daily so you can have a peace of mind. Overall, this is the place you want your kids to be.
Picket fence has taken care of my daughter since she was 2. I can’t be any happier with the care this center and all the individuals inside that care for all the kiddos provide!!! From the toddler room to the pre-k room we have adored all teachers!!! Thanks to them my daughter had been able to progress so much! She will definitely be returning as long as she can! Even if just for the summers!
Jake Myers
2 years ago
Had my three kids go here for a few years and I would not recommend this place to anyone. It seems like there’s really no structure and bullying is a real problem that isn’t being dealt with. Picked up my four year-old son one day who had a diaper on him since the morning. Like no one cared enough that this poor kid had a wet diaper on all day or did anything about it. Ever since leaving this place my kids have done so much better.
Kaitlyn Boruta
2 years ago
This has been the most loving and caring daycare facility that my children have gone to. The teachers there are so kind and really worked with my children to develop their skills. Since going to Picket Fence Daycare, my children have really built skills and have been thriving in their every day lives. they are also so happy to go to daycare as well. A great facility all around 🙂
Jeni Caez
2 years ago
Such an amazing school with wonderful teachers and staff! It’s the best feeling as a parent to know our little one is in the very best hands everyday at drop off.♥️
Jisela Regalado
2 years ago
We have been a part of the Picket Fence Daycare and learning Center for years! I have enrolled all my three children here. I could not imagine a better place for them. The staff and teachers put safety first and are focused on what is best for the children. In addition, I have been exceptionally pleased with the balanced curriculum, activities and projects. I love the daily updates and photos of activities they are doing! It makes being a full time working mom that much easier! The teachers and staff are very responsive if there are ever any questions or concerns. I highly recommend Picket Fence Daycare to anyone looking for a place where their child will strive and be loved and cared for.

What Makes Picket Fence Different

Learning through exploration and discovery
Personalized care for every child
Experienced educators who truly care
Healthy meals served every day
Safe, inclusive learning environments
Flexible programs for growing families
Picket Fence Learning Center

Every day is an opportunity to learn something new.

Picket Fence Learning Center

Children learn naturally through hands-on exploration, creativity, and discovery every day.

Picket Fence Learning Center
Every child is encouraged to learn, grow, and build confidence at their own pace.
Dedicated teachers create a safe, nurturing environment where every child feels valued.

We inspire curiosity, independence, and a lifelong love of learning from the very beginning.

Learning Experiences Designed For Every Stage Of Growth

Supporting The Development Of The Whole Child
Our programs are designed to support each child socially, emotionally, physically, cognitively, and academically through hands on learning experiences and guided classroom activities. We encourage curiosity, creativity, confidence, communication, and problem solving skills in a caring and structured environment.
Creative arts and music activities
Science and discovery exploration
Early literacy and reading development
Math and problem solving experiences
Social interaction and group learning

Helping Children Learn Beyond The Classroom

Picket Fence Learning Center proudly works with local police departments, firefighters, and community organizations to help children learn about safety, responsibility, and community involvement through interactive educational experiences and activities.
Picket Fence Learning Center

Come Experience the Picket Fence Difference in Person

The best way to see what makes Picket Fence Learning Center special is to visit us in person. Schedule a tour and discover our caring teachers, engaging classrooms, and welcoming environment.
Picket Fence Learning Center

Creating Positive Experiences For Children & Families

At Picket Fence Learning Center, we believe children learn best when they feel safe, supported, and encouraged. Our classrooms are designed to promote exploration, independence, social development, and positive relationships while creating a welcoming environment for both children and parents.

Open door policy for families
Peanut and tree nut free facility
Structured classroom routines
Safe indoor and outdoor play areas
Encouraging and supportive teachers
Elmwood Park’s Only NAEYC Accredited Daycare

Committed To Higher Standards In Early Childhood Education

Picket Fence Learning Center is proud to be the only NAEYC accredited daycare and learning center in Elmwood Park. Along with holding the GOLD Circle of Quality through ExceleRate Illinois, our voluntary accreditations reflect our commitment to providing exceptional childcare, safe learning environments, experienced educators, and development focused programs for every child.
NAEYC accredited learning center
GOLD Circle of Quality recognition
High standards for education and safety
Highly Trained and Credentialed Educators
Focused on long term developmental success
Picket Fence Learning Center

Helping Children Learn Beyond The Classroom

Picket Fence Learning Center proudly works with local police departments, firefighters, and community organizations to help children learn about safety, responsibility, and community involvement through interactive educational experiences and activities.

Fire safety education activities
Community helper demonstrations
Police and firefighter visits
Hands on learning opportunities
Encouraging confidence and awareness
Creative Curriculum
Hands On Learning Experiences
Our curriculum supports social, emotional, physical, cognitive, and language development through interactive classroom activities, guided exploration, and age appropriate learning experiences.
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BASEC Program
Before & After School Care
Safe, affordable, and enriching before and after school care for District 401 students with supervised activities, homework time, snacks, games, and social interaction.
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Nutrition Program
Healthy Meals & Snacks Daily
Children enjoy nutritious meals and snacks provided through the CACFP program while learning healthy eating habits in a safe, peanut and tree nut free environment.
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Frequent Questions
Helpful Information for Families
Find answers about enrollment, programs, schedules, curriculum, safety, classroom policies, meals, and what families can expect at Picket Fence Learning Center.
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