Daycare Enrollment Forms in Illinois: Paperwork Checklist

Updated November 2026.

To enroll in a licensed Illinois daycare center, you will usually complete a signed enrollment application, provide a health exam report and immunization records, give proof of your child's identity and age within 30 days, list pickup and emergency contacts, and sign consents for things like first aid, trips and photos. In return, the center must give you its written policies.

Here is a checklist based on the Illinois enrollment rules for day care centers (23 Ill. Adm. Code 2008.250).

The enrollment application

The signed application includes:

Your child's full name, date of birth and gender
Start date and the days and hours your child will attend
Parents' names, home addresses and phone numbers
Parents' work hours and employer contact information
Your child's doctor's name and contact information
Primary and backup pickup lists
Day and evening emergency contacts
Information about your child's development, habits, medical needs and anything else that helps staff care for your child

Health records

A health exam report from your child's doctor. Ask the center for its deadline and form.
Immunization records. See our guide to Illinois daycare immunization requirements.
Lead screening information, as your doctor provides it. See our guide to lead testing at daycare.
Allergy or asthma plans and medicine forms, if your child needs them. See asthma at daycare.

Proof of identity and age

Within 30 days of your child's first enrollment, Illinois rules require a certified copy of the birth certificate. If one is not available, you can provide a passport, visa or other government document, along with a signed statement explaining why the birth certificate cannot be provided. The center makes a copy and returns your original by the end of the next business day.

Consents you may sign

Health care and emergency first aid
Off-site trips and transportation
Photos, video and film
Sunscreen, diaper cream and insect repellent. See sunscreen and bug spray at daycare.
Activities such as swimming or gymnastics, if offered
Religious instruction, research or off-site school attendance, if they apply

What the center gives you

Illinois rules require centers to give parents written information at enrollment, including:

Who runs the program and how to reach them
The daily program and the center's goals
Fees, payment plans and late payment policies
Hours, holidays, vacations and admission and discharge policies
Arrival and departure procedures
Emergency medical care plans and how parents are told about illness or injury
The guidance and discipline policy
How the center communicates with parents
A summary of the state licensing standards

Read the contract closely before you sign. See our guide to daycare contracts.

Before the first day

Illinois rules give parents the chance to visit and observe the program during regular hours before enrolling. Use your visit to ask questions, meet the teachers and learn the daily routine. Then pack labeled supplies and plan a gentle first week.

Frequently asked questions

What documents do I need to enroll in daycare in Illinois?

Usually a signed application, a health exam report, immunization records, a birth certificate or other proof of age, pickup and emergency contacts and signed consents.

Do I need a birth certificate for daycare in Illinois?

Yes. A certified copy is due within 30 days of first enrollment, or other government documents with a signed explanation.

Can someone not on the list pick up my child?

Only people you authorize. See our guide on who can pick up your child.

Will I get a copy of the center's policies?

Yes. Licensed centers must give parents their written policies.

Enrolling at Children's Land

At Children's Land, the Emergency Information Form tells the director who to call if your child becomes sick. For infants, formula and baby food are provided, and parents supply diapers, wipes and lotions. Ask your location for current tuition and enrollment forms. Learn about our infant program, find a location, or contact us to schedule a tour.

Daycare Enrollment Forms in Illinois: Paperwork Checklist