Preschool – 2 Locations In Mahomet & Manhattan, IL
Serving New Lenox, Elwood, Peotone, Monee, Champaign
The Greater Will & Champaign County Area
First School Preschool – 2 Years Old thru 5 Years Old
At First School, we provide more than early education, we offer an enriching foundation that fosters independence, critical thinking, and a lifelong love of learning. Guided by the proven Montessori philosophy, our preschool program is thoughtfully designed to meet the developmental needs of children between the ages of 2 thru 5. With a nurturing, hands-on approach and two convenient locations, our school provides a safe and inspiring place where every child can thrive.
A Purpose-Driven Montessori Environment
Our preschool classrooms are calm, structured spaces intentionally prepared to support concentration, independence, and exploration. Children are free to choose their own activities and move at their own pace within a carefully guided framework. Each classroom is filled with age-appropriate Montessori materials that promote learning through discovery, giving children the opportunity to manipulate, observe, and master concepts on their own terms.
Key Areas of Focus Include:
- Practical Life Skills: Children build coordination, order, and independence through everyday tasks like pouring, buttoning, cleaning, and food preparation. These activities enhance fine motor skills and instill a sense of responsibility.
- Sensorial Exploration: Children learn to classify and compare using their five senses. Montessori sensorial materials lay the foundation for math, science, and language by refining a child’s ability to perceive and describe the world.
- Language Development: From phonetic awareness to reading and writing, our language program nurtures rich vocabulary, storytelling, and communication skills through engaging hands-on materials and one-on-one guidance.
- Mathematics: Children work with tactile tools such as number rods, golden beads, and spindle boxes to explore counting, place value, addition, subtraction, and more—building true number sense and confidence.
- Cultural Subjects: Geography, science, art, and music are introduced through interactive lessons and projects, helping children understand their place in the world and appreciate different cultures and ideas.
At First School, we identify and apply all of our key aspects for our preschool program. Our practical life skills help children develop independence, coordination, and responsibility through everyday tasks like pouring, buttoning, and cleaning. Sensorial explorations refine the senses and lay the groundwork for cognitive development by encouraging children to classify, compare, and observe using hands-on materials. Language Development nurtures listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills through phonetic awareness and rich vocabulary activities. Mathematics introduces foundational concepts such as counting, addition, and subtraction using tactile tools that build true number sense. Cultural Subjects expose children to science, geography, art, and music, expanding their understanding of the world and promoting curiosity and appreciation for diversity.
Nurturing Independence & Confidence
At First School Preschool, children are empowered to make choices, solve problems, and take ownership of their learning. Our mixed-age classrooms encourage peer mentoring and social collaboration, which helps younger children learn from older ones, while older students develop leadership skills and empathy.
Our educators gently guide students rather than direct them, allowing each child to learn through meaningful engagement and self-correction. This approach builds intrinsic motivation, self-discipline, and a true sense of accomplishment.
Our Montessori Teachers @ First School
Each of our lead preschool teachers are trained in Montessori and they observe and support each child’s individual development. They understand when to step in and when to let a child work independently, offering just the right amount of guidance to keep progress flowing. Our staff members are deeply committed to the Montessori principles of respect, kindness & lifelong learning.
In addition to teaching academics, our teachers model grace and courtesy, helping children develop emotional intelligence, problem-solving skills, and respect for others. We view education as a partnership between school and family and encourage open communication to support every child’s success.
Two Locations – One Unified Mission
With two Montessori preschool campuses in the state of Illinois, we provide flexibility and access to more families while maintaining the highest standards of care and education. Each location offers a consistent Montessori experience, including beautifully prepared environments, outdoor play spaces, and engaging daily routines.
Whether you’re in search of a full-day preschool program or part-time options, our team is here to support your family’s needs with flexible scheduling and extended hours.
Why Choose Our Montessori Preschool?
Parents choose our Montessori preschool because it cultivates capable, confident learners prepared not just for kindergarten—but for life. Our graduates enter the next stages of their education with strong academic foundations, emotional resilience, and a true passion for discovery. Families value our 2 years old to 5 years old program for:
- Authentic Montessori curriculum
- Certified, experienced teachers
- Clean, safe, and welcoming classrooms
- Low teacher-to-student ratios
- Focus on independence and respect
- Hands-on, child-led learning
- Support for holistic development—academic, social & emotional
Come See the Montessori Difference
We invite you to tour our First School and see how we ignite young minds through purposeful, child-centered education. Meet our passionate educators, observe our classrooms in action, and discover how Montessori can make a lasting difference in your child’s development.
Contact First School today to schedule a visit or inquire about enrollment. We look forward to welcoming your family into our Montessori community!