Daycare Discipline Rules in Illinois: Policy and Time-Outs

Updated November 2026.

In Illinois, licensed day care centers must have a written guidance and discipline policy that is shared with parents. Teachers must use positive methods that help children learn self-control. Physical punishment is banned, as is withholding food, rest or bathroom use, and centers may not expel a child because of a pattern of challenging behavior.

These rules come from 23 Ill. Adm. Code 2008.270, Guidance and Discipline, and Section 5.10 of the Child Care Act of 1969. Here is what they mean for your child.

The discipline policy

Each center must write a guidance and discipline policy for staff and give it to parents. It covers the center's approach, the methods staff use, how parents and children take part, and how the center supports children with challenging behavior. Classroom rules should be simple enough for children to understand, stated in a positive way where possible, and enforced fairly.

What teachers are expected to do

• Teach self-control instead of punishing.
• Set clear limits, explain them ahead of time and apply them consistently.
• Keep consequences fair and related to the behavior.
• Use redirection and firm, positive words with infants and toddlers.
• Give older children a chance to solve their own conflicts with support.

For ideas you can use at home, see toddler discipline techniques that work.

Time-outs

Under the Illinois rules, time-outs are not used for children under 24 months. For older children, a time-out away from the group is limited to about one minute per year of age. Many teachers prefer calm-down spaces and talking through feelings.

What is never allowed

• Hitting, spanking, shaking, pinching or anything meant to cause pain or fear
• Withholding food, rest or use of the bathroom
• Abusive language, humiliation or emotional abuse
• Using exercise or active play as a punishment
• Punishing a child for a toilet accident

The ban on expulsion

Illinois is one of only a few states with a broad law limiting expulsion from early childhood programs. Under Public Act 100-0105 and the licensing rules, a center cannot expel a child because of persistent challenging behavior. Instead, the center is expected to work with the family on supports, such as:

• A behavior plan made with parents and, when needed, a professional
• Consultation with an infant and early childhood mental health consultant
• Referrals to Early Intervention or school district services
• Training for the teachers who work with the child

A planned move to a setting that better meets a child's needs is allowed when it is done thoughtfully with the family.

Biting, hitting and other common behaviors

Biting and hitting are common in toddlers and usually a stage. Ask how the center tells families, how it protects the child who was hurt, and how it helps the child who bit. See our guide on toddler biting and aggressive behavior.

How parents can help

• Read the discipline policy before you enroll and ask questions on the tour.
• Share what works at home, and ask what works at school.
• Use the same simple words and routines at home when you can.
• Talk with the teacher first, then the director, if you have a concern.
• If you believe a child is being abused, call the Illinois child abuse hotline at 1-800-25-ABUSE (1-800-252-2873).

Frequently asked questions

Can a daycare kick out my child for behavior in Illinois?

Licensed centers cannot expel a child because of a pattern of challenging behavior. They must work with the family on supports first.

Are time-outs allowed at daycare in Illinois?

Not for children under 2. For older children, they are short, about one minute per year of age.

Can daycare teachers spank or yell at children?

No. Physical punishment, abusive language and humiliation are banned.

Will I get a copy of the discipline policy?

Yes. Licensed centers must give parents their guidance and discipline policy.

Guidance at Children's Land

Children's Land teachers meet or exceed state requirements and take mandatory workshops every year. Every room has cameras. Learn about our Exploring the World Program for 2-year-olds, find a location, or contact us.

Related reading: Toddler Discipline: Positive Techniques That Work.