Affordable Child Care Choosing a child care provider is an important job for anyone who works. But paying for that care can be a problem. There are no waiting lists. All families who fall within the income categories for their family size are eligible.
All families pay a portion of the cost as a co- payment.
The amount of the family's co-payment is based on income, family size and number of children in care. The DHS child care program gives working parents greater access to services that help their children get ready for school. DHS is also working to increase child care resources to help meet the needs of Illinois families who work weekends, rotating shifts or unconventional hours. You can choose the child care provider who best fits your individual needs. Your child care provider will be asked to certify that they are providing safe care.