Where Learning Feels Like Family: Get to Know Lakeview Development Center
For over two decades, Lakeview Development Center has stood as a beacon of early childhood education in Uptown Chicago—not just because of our curriculum, but because of our community, heart, and care.
We’re more than a child care facility. We’re a place where babies take their first steps, where preschoolers write their first letters, and where toddlers discover the joy of learning for the very first time. Families trust us with their most precious people—and we take that responsibility seriously every single day.
Our Story—24 Years of Nurturing Young Scholars
Founded over 24 years ago, Lakeview Development Center was created to meet a growing need for high-quality, inclusive early education in the Uptown neighborhood. From the start, our mission has been simple yet powerful:
To give every child the tools, care, and confidence they need to succeed—in school and in life.
Since then, we’ve helped hundreds of children move on to kindergarten emotionally ready, socially skilled, and intellectually curious. Many of our graduates come back to visit—a true testament to the connections built here.
Our Mission and Philosophy
Built on Trust, Led With Love
Our mission at Lakeview Development Center is to prepare children to be lifelong achievers by nurturing their natural curiosity, creativity, and confidence.
We believe that children thrive when they feel safe, seen, and supported. That’s why our environment is structured to:
- Encourage exploration
- Celebrate individual personalities
- Provide routine and structure
- Foster a sense of belonging and pride
Whether your child is 6 weeks old or ready for pre-K, our goal is to make sure they feel loved, capable, and excited to learn.
Who We Serve
We proudly serve families from all backgrounds across Chicago, IL, focusing on children ages 6 weeks to 5 years old. Our programs are inclusive and accessible, with options for:
- Private pay
- DCFS voucher acceptance
- Head Start eligibility
- Preschool for All enrollment
Our diverse teaching staff—including Spanish-speaking educators—reflects the beautiful cultural mix of the Uptown community we call home.
What Makes Us Different
In a city filled with childcare options, what makes Lakeview Development Center stand out?
Our Core Values and Commitments
🧠 Academic Excellence: Our creative curriculum is developmentally appropriate, engaging, and aligned with state early learning standards.
💛 Emotional Intelligence: We teach children how to express themselves, resolve conflicts, and work with others.
🧼 Clean and Safe Environment: Sanitation is a top priority—from daily cleaning routines to secure classroom access.
🧑🏫 Experienced, Caring Staff: Our team includes licensed, experienced early childhood educators who treat every child with compassion and care.
🌍 Cultural Inclusion: We celebrate and support multilingual learning and cultural awareness through language, play, and community events.
🎯 Whole-Child Focus: Our programs nurture intellectual, physical, emotional, and social growth—not just academics.
A Team That Feels Like Family
At Lakeview, it’s not just the children who grow—our staff members grow too. We hire passionate educators who believe in making a lasting impact. Each teacher brings years of experience, specialized training, and, most importantly, a deep love for children.
You’ll find our team laughing with the little ones during story time, helping resolve playground squabbles with care, and working with parents to support children’s progress.
Many of our staff have been with us for years—a testament to the warm, family-like culture we’ve built together.
A Legacy of Learning in Uptown Chicago
Lakeview Development Center is located in the heart of Uptown, just minutes from the lakefront. Our name may say “Lakeview,” but our heart is firmly rooted in the Uptown community—a vibrant, diverse, and growing neighborhood.
We are proud to serve families who live, work, and raise children in this beautiful part of Chicago, IL.
Let’s Talk—We’d Love to Meet You
Are you looking for a place where your child will be more than just a name on a list? Where they’ll be encouraged, challenged, and loved every day?
Come visit Lakeview Development Center, meet our amazing staff, and see why so many families choose us as their trusted early childhood partner.
📍 Address: 1531 West Lawrence Avenue, Chicago, IL 60640
📞 Phone: (773) 878-2223
