Inspiring Growth Through Learning

The Learning Tree Center
Trusted by Families Since 1988

Where Little Minds Grow & Thrive

At The Learning Tree Center, we provide childcare in Lake Zurich and Island Lake, IL — nurturing your child's emotional, social, and intellectual development through purposeful play. Trusted by families since 1988.

Nurturing Environment
Professional Teachers
Strong Home-School Partnership
Proudly Serving Our Community

We serve families in and around Lake Zurich, Island Lake, Hawthorn Woods, Barrington, Deer Park, Lake Barrington, North Barrington, Wauconda, Kildeer, Long Grove, Tower Lakes, Fox River Grove, Cary, Volo, and Mundelein — within approximately 5 miles of our Lake Zurich and Island Lake locations.

Children playing and learning at The Learning Tree Center
Parent Rating ⭐ 4.9 / 5.0
Children learning at The Learning Tree Center
Happy children at The Learning Tree Center
Why The Learning Tree Center

Why Families Choose Our Childcare in Lake Zurich

Rooted in Trust Since 1988

A cornerstone of early childhood education for over 35 years. Trusted by generations of families, we've proudly supported thousands of children on their journey of learning and growth.

The Learning Tree Center Logo

Experienced Teachers with Long Commitment

Our teachers are experienced, certified, and passionate about nurturing each child's potential. Many have been with us over a decade, creating a stable, loving environment.

Silver Circle of Quality — Independently Verified

We hold the Silver Circle of Quality from ExceleRate Illinois — the state's independent quality rating system for early childhood programs. It means our curriculum, teachers, and environment meet rigorously verified standards.

ExceleRate Illinois Silver Certified

Enrichment Beyond the Classroom

Mandarin immersion, STEM exploration, storytelling by community members, Karate and Jungle Bus — helping children grow socially, emotionally, and physically every single day.

Early Childhood Programs | The Learning Tree Center - Lake Zurich & Island Lake IL

Our Programs

At The Learning Tree Center, we implement The Creative Curriculum®, a nationally recognized, research-based early childhood curriculum developed by Teaching Strategies. Rooted in developmentally appropriate practice, our programs nurture the whole child—supporting social-emotional, cognitive, physical, and language development from infancy through preschool.

Ready to Start Your Child's Journey?

Schedule a tour of our Lake Zurich or Island Lake centers and see our programs in action.

Schedule a Tour
Sarah.C
Sarah.C
@LearningTreeLakeZurich
The Learning Tree is an excellent childcare facility! We are a military family who was apprehensive about choosing childcare as we didn’t know anyone in the area who could personally recommend a provider. As soon as we toured The Learning Tree, we knew it was the place for us. The director and teachers truly feel like family - they have become our village! The center is excellent at communicating. We love the notes and pictures that are frequently provided throughout the day. Both of our children love going to school every day! We couldn’t recommend The Learning Tree more!
Ashley.K
Ashley.K
@LearningTreeLakeZurich
The Learning Tree is the absolute best! If I could give it 10 stars, I would. We have 2 kids that have had the opportunity to be there for the last few years. The staff is kind, knowledgeable and super caring. When I walk into the building, it feels more like a family than a daycare. This is not my first daycare experience, and let me just say that this place far surpasses others I have seen. Choosing The Learning Tree was one of the best decisions I have made for our family, and I would choose them again and again! My oldest daughter is in kindergarten, and she was super prepared going into elementary school largely because of the engaging activities that they provide. Thank you Learning Tree for being an integral part of my family. <3
D M
D M
@LearningTree LakeZurich
My son first started at Learning Tree when he was 18 months. He still goes for their summer programs. The staff is excellent and always keeps you informed. I looked at three other places before deciding on Learning Tree. It was one of the best decisions I made.
Jamie.K
Jamie.K
@LearningTreeLakeZurich
We have been with the Learning Tree since 2019. We decided to put our first born there at 2.5 years old and have been happy overall. We toured several daycares in the area, some had more bells and whistles, but the staff wasn’t as experienced. We wanted our children to be nurtured, not just watched. We feel the staff is nurturing and very loving at The Learning Tree Lake Zurich. The Learning Tree has been accommodating with our children's needs by working with our Occupational therapy schedules and open to supporting those needs through the day. My oldest was absolutely ready for Kindergarten in District 95.
Brittney.H
Brittney.H
@LearningTree IslandLake
My kids have been coming here for a long time and they love it. I've never had any issues with this daycare. All the teachers are amazing 👏
Valerie.R
Valerie.R
@LearningTree IslandLake
I love The Learning Tree for my daughter! She's been there for almost 4 years now and loves it! I moved her from one daycare that was absolutely awful to my baby due to potty training trouble, and The Learning Tree was able to get her there within 3weeks and she was happier and it was an amazing change! The Director Danielle is always quick to answer any questions or concerns I have and truly cares about the kiddos. I've also grown great relationships with the other teachers Ruth, Ruby, Shannon and Marissa who all seem to look after my little girl with such great care it warms my heart so much! They're always doing fun activities with them too and crafty stuff which my daughter loves and gets so happy to bring home! The Learning Tree is a great place to trust your little one with when you can't be with them I truly believe the people who work there treat those kids like family. I am so grateful my daughter has grown up with them!
S Meagher
S Meagher
@LearningTree Island Lake
Ms. Cecile, Ms. Maricella, Ms. Amy, Ms. Ruth and Ms. Ruby have taken such fantastic care of our kids over the last few years. We have had our children here for almost seven years and whenever there has been a concern or issue, we have been communicated with and worked together towards a meaningful resolution. Our kids are happy here, they feel safe and seen. It is difficult to trust anyone to watch over your children when you are not able to, but the staff here make it a bit easier
Carolina.B
Carolina.B
@LearningTree Island Lake
I have been a long time resident of Lake Zurich. My four children have attended The Learning Tree. The teachers are awesome. I would highly recommend. They treat you like family.
Nina.T
Nina.T
@LearningTree Island Lake
All four of my sons have been at this daycare since they were infants, and we’ve had a great experience. The staff and teachers are kind, caring, and truly dedicated. I always felt confident knowing my kids were in such good hands. We’re so thankful for everything they’ve done for our family!

Trusted Daycare and Preschool Near Lake Zurich & Island Lake

At Learning Tree Center, we’re proud to provide trusted childcare, daycare, and preschool programs for families in Lake Zurich, Island Lake, and nearby communities.
Our mission is to nurture joyful, confident, and well-rounded children through play-based learning and caring relationships.
By partnering closely with parents, we create a warm, safe, and engaging environment where every child can explore, learn, and thrive every day.

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