Top 4 Best Special Needs Schools in Plainfield, Illinois (2026)

Extraordinary Kydz Learning Center is a licensed home-based preschool and daycare on Gettysburg Road in Plainfield, run by an owner who holds a master's degree in education and taught for more than 14 years in private and public schools. Children ages 12 weeks to 6 years spend their days in bright, sunny rooms with plenty of space to play, and we serve hot, home-cooked meals and snacks. Our preschool and pre-kindergarten curriculum covers math, literacy, writing, science, creative art and computers, and our Culinary Kids activities teach simple meal preparation, kitchen safety and nutrition. Parents receive daily progress reports and meet with us at twice-yearly conferences. Families can choose full-time care from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. or part-time morning or afternoon sessions. For children ages 5 to 8, our before- and after-school program serves families from Lincoln Elementary and Ira Jones Middle School with homework help, daily fitness activities and healthy snacks. Each summer, our Edu-Camp adds acting, puppetry, tutu and piggy bank making, vision boards and field trips, with breakfast, lunch, a camp T-shirt and supplies included.

• Licensed home-based preschool and daycare
• Home-based childcare
• Pre-K readiness
• Private school

Children at KLA Schools of Plainfield spend part of their week in the STEM Atelier and the Grand Piazza, two shared spaces where science and art projects grow beyond a single classroom. We enroll children from 6 weeks through 5 years, from the Baby Nido infant room to the Class of the 4s, and our teaching is inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach: teachers watch what children are curious about and build projects around those interests instead of following one fixed script. Our outdoor classroom is certified by Nature Explore, and children use it every day. Enrichment includes Spanish exposure, computing, music and movement, martial arts, organic gardening, and short daily mindfulness and gratitude practices. Meals, milk and most snacks are provided by OrganicLife. Preschool placement follows age, so children must be 3 by September 1 to join the 3s room and 4 by September 1 for the 4s room, and they stay with the same class all year. Our Van Dyke Road school is open 6:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. on weekdays, and we also host a themed summer camp.

• Reggio Emilia-inspired preschool (infant to Pre-K)
• Reggio Emilia approach
• STEM Atelier
• Nature Explore outdoor classroom

Our therapeutic day school at Menta Academy Plainfield combines project-based work with traditional academics. Open learning spaces and classroom technology support instruction, while the curriculum addresses academics, social and emotional health, and skills for adult life. Students work toward next steps such as reintegration, graduation, independent living, adult programming or college. Placement is reviewed with the home school and IEP team. We provide counseling when needed and speech and occupational therapy as identified by the student's IEP. Students with IEPs, 504 plans or general education needs can receive additional educational and behavioral support.

• High school
• Private school

Plainfield's Best After School program is dedicated to creating a supportive and enriching environment for children in Plainfield, IL, focusing on fostering success in academics, sports, and life skills. Catering to a diverse range of students, the program is designed to meet the unique needs of each child, providing activities that promote physical fitness, creativity, and social interaction. Key offerings include engaging sports, dynamic arts and crafts, lively dance fitness sessions, and beginner-friendly martial arts classes that emphasize discipline and respect. The highly trained staff members are not only experienced in working with children but are also certified in CPR and first aid, ensuring a safe atmosphere for all participants. What sets Plainfield's Best apart is its commitment to low student-teacher ratios and strong family partnerships that enhance the overall experience for both children and their families. The program fosters a sense of community through fun events and activities that encourage lasting friendships while helping children build confidence and develop new skills.

• After school program