Daycare – 2 Locations In Mahomet & Manhattan, IL
Serving New Lenox, Elwood, Peotone, Monee, Champaign
The Greater Will & Champaign County Area
Where Nurturing Care Meets Purposeful Learning
Choosing the right daycare is one of the most important decisions a parent can make. At First School, we offer more than a safe place for your child to spend the day, we provide a thoughtfully prepared environment where children grow emotionally, socially & intellectually through the proven principles of the Montessori method.
Our program is designed for children from infancy through age 6, offering full-day and extended care that aligns with the natural rhythms of early childhood development. Every moment at First School is filled with purpose, from mealtime and nap routines to learning activities and social interactions. We nurture the whole child—mind, body & spirit, within a calm, respectful, & structured setting.
What Sets First Choice Apart?
Unlike traditional daycare centers, First School combines high-quality childcare with an educational foundation rooted in observation, independence & respect for the child. Our trained educators guide children through hands-on, self-directed learning experiences that spark curiosity and support holistic development.
Montessori classrooms are intentionally designed to foster independence and exploration. Child-sized furniture, natural materials, and low, accessible shelves allow children to choose their own activities and engage deeply in purposeful work. This freedom within structure empowers children to develop focus, self-confidence, and a genuine love of learning.
Whether your child is a curious toddler, a busy preschooler, or an observant infant, our Montessori daycare program provides a peaceful and engaging environment that adapts to their developmental needs.
A Typical Day At First School
Our full-day Montessori daycare program offers a balanced routine of work and play, rest and activity, structure and freedom. Children begin the day with a warm welcome and circle time, followed by uninterrupted periods of Montessori “work cycle” where they explore practical life skills, sensorial activities, early language, math & cultural studies.
Throughout the day, children engage in group activities, outdoor play, meals, and quiet time for napping or reading. Every part of the routine is seen as an opportunity for growth, whether a child is learning to serve themselves lunch, helping a friend clean up, or tending to a class plant.
Consistency and predictability in the schedule provide a sense of security while allowing each child to flourish at their own pace.
Our Montessori Daycare Approach
At the heart of our daycare program is the belief that every child is capable, competent, and deserving of respect. We honor the unique personality and learning style of each child by creating a supportive space where their interests are acknowledged and their choices are valued.
Independence & Responsibility
At First School, we emphasize developing independence from a very young age. Children are encouraged to care for themselves, their classroom, and each other. Toddlers might learn to put on their shoes, wash their hands, or prepare their snacks. Preschoolers take on more advanced tasks, such as setting the table or organizing their materials.
By allowing children to do for themselves what they are capable of doing, we foster a deep sense of pride, self-discipline & responsibility.
Social & Emotional Growth
The social environment at First School promotes kindness, empathy, and respect. Multi-age classrooms allow younger children to learn from older peers and older children to develop leadership skills. Teachers model grace and courtesy in every interaction, guiding children in resolving conflicts peacefully and communicating effectively.
Through collaborative work and thoughtful interactions, children develop emotional intelligence, patience & compassion, skills that serve them well far beyond the classroom.
A Language-Rich Environment
From infancy onward, our daycare program immerses children in rich, expressive language. Teachers speak clearly and respectfully to children, narrating daily routines, reading stories, singing songs, and encouraging thoughtful conversation. This exposure supports early literacy, builds vocabulary, and nurtures a love of language that forms the foundation for future academic success.
Outdoor Play and Nature Exploration
We believe that nature is a child’s first classroom. Our Montessori daycare program includes daily outdoor play where children can run, explore, and connect with the natural world. Since we have our own “Natural Playground” at our Manhattan location, we try to get outside as much as possible, because we believe outdoor practical life activities help children develop gross motor skills, creativity, and a sense of wonder. Rain or shine, we prioritize time in nature as a vital component of our holistic approach to learning and well-being.
Why Choose Our Montessori Daycare?
Parents choose First School for their daycare needs because they want more than just babysitting, they want an environment that supports their child’s growth, learning, and happiness every single day.
What Makes our Daycare Special:
- Licensed, trained Montessori educators and caregivers
- Low child-to-teacher ratios and personalized attention
- Calm, structured environments that promote independence
- Hands-on, self-paced learning activities for all age groups
- Daily routines that blend care and education seamlessly
- Respectful guidance and positive discipline
- Emphasis on practical life skills and social development
- Secure, clean & nurturing facilities
Whether you're seeking care for a baby, toddler, or preschool-aged child, our Montessori daycare offers a warm and enriching space where children can develop the skills, confidence, and joy that will guide them throughout life.
Schedule a Tour Today At First School
We welcome you to come see the First School difference for yourself. Contact us today to schedule a tour of our daycare facility in Mahomet or Manhattan and meet our dedicated staff, discover how our program can be the right fit for your child and family.