Please input a valid zip code. Ex: 20005
Ok
Please input a valid zip code. Ex: 20005
Ok
DEAL
Enrolling

Growing & Learning Home Daycare, Chicago

Based on 9 reviews

About

🎉 Special deal: contact us on CareLuLu and we will waive your $50 registration fee!

Location:

Welcome to Growing & Learning Home Daycare, a licensed home-based daycare and preschool program located in the charming Portage Park neighborhood of Chicago, IL. Our convenient location near W. Irving Park Rd (IL-19) and W. Belle Plaine Ave offers quick access to Cicero Ave (IL-50), and we're less than 15 minutes from the Kennedy (I-90) and Edens (I-94) expressways.

We're also close to public transportation, including the Jefferson Park Transit Center and Montrose Blue Line station. Plus, with Portage Park Elementary School just minutes away, our daycare is a perfect option for busy families seeking dependable, high-quality child care in Chicago.

Program:

Growing & Learning Home Daycare is a Spanish bilingual program open Monday through Friday, from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm. We provide full-time and part-time care for infants as young as 6 weeks, toddlers, and preschoolers, along with before- and after-school care for children up to 12 years old. For your child’s health and safety, our daycare is completely peanut- and tree-nut-free. Nutritious, home-style meals are included in tuition each day, ensuring children stay healthy and energized while learning and playing.

About Me:

Hello parents! My name is Ms. Gabriela, though most families and children call me Ms. Gaby. I am a proud mother and the founder of Growing & Learning Home Daycare, where young minds are encouraged to explore, grow, and discover. What I love most about working with children is that every day brings new adventures, challenges, and joyful moments that make this work so rewarding.

I hold a Bachelor's Degree in Graphic Design, a Child Development Associate’s Degree (CDA) in Early Childhood Education, and certifications in CPR and First Aid. With more than 30 years of childcare experience, including 16 years running my own home daycare, I bring both creativity and safety into the classroom. My mission is to provide a nurturing, engaging, and safe environment where children feel loved, supported, and excited to learn each day. I look forward to welcoming your family into our Growing & Learning community.

Philosophy:

At Growing & Learning Home Daycare, we believe early childhood should be a time of joy, discovery, and creativity. We create a warm environment where children learn through play, imagination, and hands-on experiences. By blending a play-based approach with arts and crafts, we nurture each child’s natural curiosity and encourage them to express themselves freely. This creative learning builds confidence, independence, and essential life skills.

Our philosophy centers on strong, supportive relationships with children and their families. We provide personalized care that respects each child’s pace and personality, guiding them with warmth and patience as they reach important milestones. Our goal is to make every child feel valued, inspired, and eager to learn.

Why Choose Us:

We offer more than just child care, we provide a nurturing, home-based preschool experience that families can count on. Our program is built on trust, safety, and a deep commitment to supporting each child’s emotional, social, and academic development.

Because early childhood lays the foundation for lifelong success, we focus on building strong skills through meaningful activities, supportive relationships, and daily encouragement. When you choose Growing & Learning Home Daycare in Chicago, you’re choosing a caring community dedicated to helping your child thrive.

Daily Activities:

Our daily schedule is thoughtfully designed to inspire joy, curiosity, and meaningful learning. We combine the Creative Curriculum with elements from Mother Goose Time, STEM, and Montessori approaches to create a well-rounded, engaging experience. This blend allows us to provide both structure and flexibility, supporting each child’s individual growth. Activities include music, arts and crafts, cooking and snack preparation, and hands-on exploration that foster creativity, independence, and problem-solving. In our bilingual environment, children are naturally immersed in both English and Spanish, encouraging strong language development and cultural appreciation.

Outdoor play is an essential part of our day. Our safe, fenced backyard offers space for active play, while regular nature walks and visits to the nearby park spark a sense of wonder and connection to the world around them. Through this balance of creative, play-based learning and outdoor discovery, we help children become confident, curious learners who form meaningful friendships, explore their interests, and grow with joy and purpose.

Thank you for learning about Growing & Learning Home Daycare! Contact us through CareLuLu to schedule a tour, we look forward to meeting your family! 🌟

Parent Reviews

Gabriela G.
Verified Parent
Posted 3 months ago
Overall
Facilities
Curriculum
Teachers
Safety
Growing and Learning has truly been the best experience for our family. Where do I even begin? As a first-time, full-time working household, my husband and I knew we needed to find quality care for our little one. A close friend highly recommended Ms. Gaby’s, so I reached out when I was halfway through my pregnancy to secure an infant spot knowing how limited they can be. When the day finally came to return to work, I felt every emotion imaginable. Dropping off my baby for the first time was so hard, but Ms. Gaby’s calm and reassuring presence immediately gave me a sense of trust and peace. On my train ride to work, I couldn’t help but question whether I was doing the right thing, should I stay home instead? The guilt was heavy… until I received a thoughtful update about my little one, and instantly felt comforted knowing she was in such good hands. Ms. Gaby and her team are truly special. They are not only wonderful caretakers and teachers for the children, but also for us as parents. Their focus, love, respect, and commitment to each child’s well-being are unmatched. They are incredibly accommodating with dietary needs and so attentive to every detail. When I had my second child, I felt such relief and joy knowing he, too, would be joining Ms. Gaby’s. I deeply appreciate that they speak Spanish, our home language, and expose the children to delicious, healthy foods and rich cultural experiences. Now, my oldest has moved on to kindergarten, and my youngest is enjoying his last year there. The program offers so many hands on learning activities, the children explore math, letters, and even begin to read. The teachers pour their hearts into everything they do, and it truly shows. The environment is always clean, organized, and welcoming. I can’t say enough about how grateful I am for this amazing team and the role they’ve played in my motherhood journey. We absolutely love Growing & Learning, Ms. Gaby’s, and we feel so lucky to be part of this wonderful community.
Was this review helpful to you?
YesNo
Anna E.W. H.
Verified Parent
Posted 3 months ago
Overall
Facilities
Curriculum
Teachers
Safety
Choosing Growing & Learning Daycare was one of our best decisions as parents. Both our children started there as infants, and from the first day, it felt like we were bringing them to family. The teachers cared for our son through early intervention for torticollis, doing his physical therapy stretches and working alongside his therapist. They took care of significant milestones for us: potty training both children, teaching them to use utensils and drink from straws (how do you teach a kid that? I still don't know because they did it for me!), helping them follow routines, take turns, make their first real friendships, and be kind to others. They also prepared them academically with letters, numbers, and age-appropriate, themed learning. The food was always healthy and delicious; my kids even begged me to cook broccoli "like Ms. Gaby." She could write a cookbook. Daily life there was joyful. Drop-off meant hugs and smiles, and even now that our kids have "graduated," they still can't wait to come back when they have days off from school. It feels like going home for them. The friendships built here are special; the kids still adore each other and look for any excuse to spend time together. They also care deeply for the whole family. Without relatives nearby, they became our village. When our daughter was born, they took in our son in the middle of the night. They were there for us through challenging times, including my cancer treatment. They were always supportive, never judgmental, and their advice on everything from sleep schedules to tantrums really got us through. The mixed-age program was wonderful: our kids learned from older children and then became gentle leaders for the younger ones. That gave them social confidence and empathy that I still see. The special touches made it memorable: endless art projects, "pajama day," a bilingual environment where our kids picked up Spanish, and the creativity Linda and Katy put into doing my daughter's hair differently every single day. We're so grateful to Gaby, Katy, and Linda for everything they've done for our family. Growing & Learning gave our kids more than excellent care. It gave them a foundation of love, confidence, and security that they carry with them everywhere.
Response from the provider:
Your words have touched my heart and brought back so many beautiful memories!! Thank you for all your trust in us and support for so many years working together. As always spending time with the kids is always a joyful experience for all of us.
Was this review helpful to you?
YesNo
Katie M.
Verified Parent
Posted 3 months ago
Overall
Facilities
Curriculum
Teachers
Safety
As a parent with one child who graduated from Growing and Learning and another who is currently enrolled, I cannot recommend this daycare enough. From day one, Gaby and her staff created a safe, nurturing environment that supported not only my children’s growth but our entire family. They helped us navigate every milestone—getting on a sleep schedule, gently weaning off bottles and pacifiers (when my children were ready), and even managing the daunting task of potty training both kids. Their patience, expertise, and genuine care made these transitions feel natural and stress-free. But Growing and Learning goes far beyond the basics. My children learned so much through fun, creative, age-appropriate units that sparked curiosity and joy. By the time my oldest moved on to pre-K, he was more than ready—academically and socially. Just as importantly, both of my children learned values that matter most: how to share, listen, speak up kindly when they need help, and be caring friends. The friendships they’ve made here will last a lifetime, and as a parent, I’ll be forever grateful for the sense of community we’ve found. I truly cannot imagine our lives without Growing and Learning, and I would strongly recommend it to any parent searching for a supportive, loving, and fun place for their child to grow. If you’re looking for a daycare that feels like a second home, where your child will be cared for like family—this is it.
Response from the provider:
There’s not enough words to express how grateful I am for your support and how wonderful it has been to work with your family, you and the kids have a special place in our hearts. Thank you for so many years of trust and support!!
Was this review helpful to you?
YesNo
Nora B.
Verified Parent
Posted 3 months ago
Overall
Facilities
Curriculum
Teachers
Safety
Our son, Aldo, started with Gaby when he was just 9 months old, after a rocky experience at another daycare. From the moment we met her, we felt at ease. She created such a warm, safe environment that we instantly trusted her with our son. Gaby and her two wonderful assistants know how to challenge kids gently, in ways that feel natural and fun. They connected with Aldo in a personal, meaningful way—especially when it comes to reading and early math. Aldo loves the art projects, worksheets, and all the creative activities she comes up with. He’s learned so much, and he’s always excited to go. Gaby has also been incredibly thoughtful and accommodating around Aldo’s dietary needs, which gave us peace of mind from day one. And beyond the care she provides, she’s helped foster a lovely sense of community among the families. We’ve made lasting friendships and we often find ourselves in conversations with fellow parents talking about how lucky we all were to be able to place our children in her care. Aldo started pre-K this fall, and thanks to Gaby, he’s more than ready. We're genuinely sad to be moving on. It’s hard to put into words the comfort that comes from knowing your child is cared for with such patience, warmth, and love. Gaby has been a foundational part of Aldo’s early years, and we’re so grateful. We wholeheartedly recommend Growing and Learning to any family looking for a place where kids are truly known and loved.
Response from the provider:
I appreciate your kind words. It’s always a pleasure to have Aldo back to visit us!
Was this review helpful to you?
YesNo
Gillian M.
Verified Parent
Posted 3 months ago
Overall
Facilities
Curriculum
Teachers
Safety
I am so greatful for Gaby’s daycare. She is always organizing enriching activities for the kids to do, cooking them delicious and nutritious meals, and overall creating a welcoming environment for the kids. I was worried that my kids would have a hard time adjusting to being away from their parents, but they are always excited to go to daycare and can’t wait to see their teachers. I can’t put into words how comforting it is to know that when I’m away from my kids that they are being cared for so well. I’d recommend Gabys to anyone and feel very lucky to have found her!
Response from the provider:
Thank you Gillian, for your kind words. We really appreciate your support.
Was this review helpful to you?
YesNo
Stacy M.
Verified Parent
Posted 4 months ago
Overall
Facilities
Curriculum
Teachers
Safety
I wholeheartedly recommend Gabriela Gonzalez as a home daycare provider. Over the past eight years, she cared for my two children with exceptional kindness, patience, and professionalism. Her home is a warm, welcoming, and safe environment where my kids felt comfortable and happy every single day. Gabriela and the other teachers provided daily engaging activities that supported the kid's development. The kids engaged in creative arts and crafts, outdoor play, and story time. My kids were well prepared, both socially and academically, when they transitioned to elementary school. What truly sets Gabriela apart is her genuine love for children and her attentiveness to each child’s unique needs. She loves all of the children in her care with her whole heart. She was easy to talk to, understanding and made the experience of leaving your child under someone else's care more peaceful than I could have thought possible. If you’re looking for a nurturing, reliable, and enriching daycare experience, I can’t recommend Gabriela and her daycare providers highly enough!!!
Response from the provider:
Thank you so much for sharing your experience with prospective families! It’s been a pleasure working with you and the kids throughout the years. Thank you for trusting us!
Was this review helpful to you?
YesNo
Erika D.
Verified Parent
Posted 4 months ago
Overall
Facilities
Curriculum
Teachers
Safety
Ms. Gaby, Ms. Linda, and Ms. Katy hold very special places in our hearts. The dedication they have for the kids they care for is unmatched, they truly love them and treat them as their own. My sister is an assistant principal and school social worker and always raves about how socially, emotionally, and academically my boys were compared to their peers or even some of the kids in her own elementary school which I directly attribute to Gaby and her program. They provide yummy and nutritious meals, STEM based educational opportunities for kids to explore such as learning about the weather or farms, and cultivate a real family-like feeling amongst the kids in their care. The intertwined ages is so beneficial for all kids as the little ones are constantly observing and learning from older kids while the older kids learn how to carefully and appropriately interact and care for younger children. They take great strides to keep spaces clean and are always reorganizing and redecorating to keep kids entertained and interested in new things. They create a safe, loving space that each child can be authentically themselves and instill great pride and self-esteem in the little ones they care for. We love Ms. Gaby, Ms. Linda, and Ms. Katy as family and are forever grateful we were lucky enough to find them.
Was this review helpful to you?
YesNo
Kennon R.
Verified Parent
Posted 6 years ago
Overall
Facilities
Curriculum
Teachers
Safety
I can't speak more highly of Growing & Learning, Gabriela, and her team. My son has been in her care since he was 1-year-old and he's almost 5. Her indoor and outdoor space is clean, bright, and welcoming. Her whole team is friendly, loving, compassionate, skilled, and generous. Her care is play-based with organized activities, including reading circle, special art projects, monthly themes (ex/ sea creatures, plants), and lots of outdoor time as weather allows. In her care, my son has learned how to write, read his first words, be kind to those around him, how to go potty, how to respect other's space, and so much more. He is well prepared to start pre-K soon! I highly recommend her care! We will miss bringing our son here and being part of this wonderful community, but hope to always stay connected.
Was this review helpful to you?
YesNo
Kelly W.
Verified Parent
Posted 6 years ago
Overall
Facilities
Curriculum
Teachers
Safety
Gabriela is the most patient and loving caretaker in the world! She has so much fun with the kids, they do crafts, play games, do special things around the holidays and she treats her daycare like a preschool. My girls knew letters, numbers, colors and shapes by the age of 2! She is a true gem in the city!
Was this review helpful to you?
YesNo
Contact This Program For Free
Home-based
Hours
7:00am - 5:00pm
Ages
6 weeks - 6 years
Kindergarten
No
Before School Care
Yes
After School Care
Yes
Accreditation
No
Meals Provided
Yes
Transportation
No
Facilities
  Fenced Facilities
  Playground
  Multipurpose Room
  iPads/Tablets
  Indoor Playroom
  Library
  Backyard
  Separate Nap Room
  Outdoor Play Area