Welcome to Irving Park Early Learning Center

caring hearts for curious minds

since 1999

Named one of the Top Preschools in Chicago by TrustedCare.com

Over 25 Years of Nurturing Little Learners

At IPELC, we’ve created a space where children feel at home while discovering the world around them.

Across our two Chicago locations (Sacramento & Whipple), our centers thrive with the warmth of family and the joy of learning, helping your child grow confident through personalized care, creative play, and hands-on exploration.

From finger-painting to learning Spanish, we spark curiosity and big imaginations.

Come see why families have trusted us to help their children grow, learn, and shine for over a quarter-century!

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Explore our Programs

Why Families Choose IPELC

3,000 Sq. Ft. Playground

Outdoor play is built into our day.

Fenced-in, secured space
Twice daily outdoor time (45 minutes each)
Outdoor art easels & chalkboards

Educated, Long-Term Teachers

Our teachers are the heart of IPELC.

Lead teachers hold Early Childhood degrees
20 hours of annual trainings
Many with 4–15+ years at our center

Family-Owned Since 1999

We’re not a corporate chain.

Local, Hispanic, and woman-owned
Families grow with us from infants to preschool
Warm, community-centered environment

Spanish Every Day

From Native Speakers

Spanish is a part of our everyday environment.

Monthly Spanish curriculum aligned with classroom theme
Bilingual classroom labels

Infants

6 WEEKS–14 MONTHS
Cuddles, coos, and first smiles - it all happens here. We surround your little one in a warm, nurturing environment while gently guiding their earliest discoveries.

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Toddlers

15 MONTHS–2 YEARS
Wobbly steps and wonder-filled eyes - toddlers are on the move! We channel that endless energy into play that builds bodies, minds, and friendships.

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Twos & Threes

2–3 YEARS
"I can do it myself!" is music to our ears. We nurture that budding independence, turning everyday moments into confidence-boosting adventures.
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Preschool

3–5 YEARS
Today's finger painters, tomorrow's world changers. Through giggles and group time, we're laying the groundwork for a lifetime of learning and success.
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nurturing
the whole
child

Our Programs

At IPELC, we see each child as a whole little person brimming with potential. For over 25 years, we’ve embraced one simple truth: children learn best through play.

By fostering a love of learning, we prepare your child for exciting adventures ahead - building a love of learning that will last a lifetime.

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Hear what IPELC families have to say!

The staff here is really the best. Everyone is friendly and genuinely seems to love the children they care for as their own.

—
HEATHER L.
IPELC has been a great home for our family. Our children have teachers that they love who clearly care about them and help them to grow and develop.

—
CORIE D.
Though she is now at CPS, our daughter expresses nostalgia for her IPELC days. She definitely misses the meals, and I do too.

—
RACHEL E.
Through his experience at IPELC, our son gained social confidence, made some great friends, and learned a TON.

—
TODD C.