Child-led exploration and learning in a nurturing environment

The Montessori approach encourages independence, creativity and confidence by honoring each child’s natural curiosity and individual interests. Developed by Dr. Maria Montessori, this method combines a child-centered curriculum with hands-on learning in a thoughtfully prepared environment — guided by trained adults who act as facilitators, not lecturers.

Montessori class

Our vision and programs

We believe that by nurturing children’s potential today, we are shaping a better tomorrow. That’s why we provide education custom-tailored to each child’s developmental needs.

Infants (6 weeks–15 months)

A warm, nurturing space exclusively for Swedish Hospital employees’ children. Infants explore safe, stimulating materials that promote sensory and motor development. Teacher ratio: 1:4

Toddler & pre-primary (15-36 months)

In our Owl (15–24 months) and Busy Bee (24–36 months) rooms, children build language, movement and social-emotional skills through music, art and play. Teacher ratio: 1:5

Primary (3–6 years)

Our Bear, Eagle and Butterfly classrooms introduce early math, language, geography and practical life skills through hands-on Montessori materials. Ideal for families seeking a full Montessori experience through the kindergarten year. Teacher ratio: 1:10

A place your child will thrive

We’re here to make the process of joining our community as smooth as possible. Find helpful information about location details, hours, applying for enrollment and what to expect as your child gets started.

Location details

We are conveniently located on Swedish Hospital’s campus between Galter Pavilion and the Main Parking Garage.

Endeavor Health Swedish Hospital 
5140 North California Ave. 
Chicago, IL 60625

Parking 
Reserved drop-off parking is available with a permit. Swedish Hospital employees use payroll-deducted garage parking.

Hours

We are open year-round, except for major holidays and select in-service days. Drop-off/pick-up is scheduled to support an ~8.5-hour day.

Hours of operation
Infant program: 6:45am-4pm
Toddler and primary programs: 6:45am-5pm

Application for admission

We accept applications year-round on a rolling basis as space becomes available, with peak enrollment in late summer/early fall. The application includes a $100 non-refundable application fee. Swedish Hospital employees receive enrollment priority.

Apply now

Want to schedule a tour? Please email montessori [at] schosp.org (montessori[at]schosp[dot]org) or call (773) 907-1008.

How to prepare your new student

Before your child’s first day, please review and return all DCFS-required forms, including health records, emergency contacts, permissions and orientation questionnaires. All paperwork is due one week prior to the start date.

We ask all newly enrolled families to review our policies and procedures:

To complete the admissions process and best support our students, we must maintain complete and accurate records for every child. Per DCFS guidelines, the required enrollment forms must be completed and returned at least one week before your child’s start date. All paperwork will be reviewed by administration prior to enrollment. No exceptions can be made.

Additionally, DCFS regulations require that an official birth certificate for each child be kept on file.

Questions? Please email Jessica Salgado at jsalgado [at] schosp.org.

Family-Centered, Individualized Learning

Why families choose us

At MMCCC, every decision we make puts children and families first. From our caring staff and thoughtfully prepared classrooms to our flexible schedules and robust safety measures, we create a place where children feel secure, supported and inspired to grow — at their own pace.

Comprehensive safety protocols and on-campus security

We maintain rigorous safety standards with secured access, monthly health checks, CPR/First Aid-trained staff and DCFS licensing. The playground is fully enclosed and monitored at all times.

Education centered around your child’s development

Students learn from compassionate, highly trained teachers and benefit from low teacher-to-student ratios. Learning is focused on outdoor play, positive redirection and collaboration with parents.

Scheduling that accommodates your busy schedule

Children may attend 3–5 days per week based on availability. Full-time, consistent attendance is encouraged to support learning and classroom community.

Endeavor Health Illustration Family Playing Card Game
A foundation for life-long learning
Rooted in Montessori, designed for discovery

Through our MMCCC, we nurture curiosity, independence and a lifelong love of learning in a safe and supportive setting. "The role of education is to interest the child profoundly in an external activity to which he will give all of his potential." – Dr. Maria Montessori

Schedule a tour

Interested in seeing our classrooms in action? Touring our center is a great way to meet our educators, explore our Montessori environment and get answers to any questions you have. To schedule a tour, email montessori [at] schosp.org (montessori[at]schosp[dot]org) or call (773) 907-1008.

Endeavor Health Illustration Mom Dad Kids

Frequently asked questions

Yes, tuition includes organic meals and snacks provided daily. We accommodate restrictions with clear classroom labeling and nut-free policies.

Children in the primary (3-6 year old) classrooms must be toilet trained. Children in the toddler rooms are in the process of toilet learning. You will work with your classroom teaching team when the time is right for toilet training your toddler. For children under 3, parents must provide diapers and wipes.

Yes, we have an open-door policy for breastfeeding, and nursing mothers are welcome to nurse their children while on campus. Additionally, our infant classroom has a refrigerator/freezer designated for the storage of breast milk.

Given the young age and large number of children, we do not transport the children on any field trips. Occasionally, we will bring special programming to MMCCC, like musical performances and more.

Tuition payment is conducted through our parent communication app via credit card (2.9% fee) or ACH ($.50 fee). Employees of Swedish Hospital have the option of using payroll deduction.

View rates and payment information

Credit card charges or payroll deduction occur bi-weekly, coinciding with the Swedish Hospital pay day, and will be done two weeks in advance of services.

Families who pick up their child(ren) within 15 minutes after the center’s closing will be charged $15 per child. After 15 minutes, an additional $1 per minute per child will be added to the fee.

Apply for enrollment

Ready to empower your child with a strong start in a nurturing, Montessori-based environment? Apply today to join our vibrant learning community. Space is limited and priority is given to Swedish Hospital employees.

Apply now