weekday preschool
The preschool programs at First Federated Church were established over 50 years ago. Over the years, our reputation for excellence has grown. Our programs are licensed through the Department of Children and Family Services. While providing a nurturing, safe and clean environment, we work so all children enjoy themselves and leave with positive "first school" experiences.
We believe very strongly in the importance of developing social skills such as cooperation, assertion, responsibility, empathy and self-control. These are the tools that will provide each child with the means to become an eager and active participant in his or her world.
Our goal is for each child to walk away with a healthy disposition for learning that will remain with them throughout their school years. Our curriculum is developed to meet the unique interests and abilities of children of all ages and stages of development.
To contact the Preschool Director, Debbie Allen, please call First Federated Church at 309-685-5258 or e-mail .
Mother's Day Out
Mother's Day Out provides a safe, supervised environment for children ages 15 months to 3 years. It offers age-appropriate activities and opportunities for social interaction. While the curriculum is primarily free play, teachers offer activities in art, music and story time.
When registering, parents choose one day a week for their child's "standing reservation." Children under age 2 may come on Monday from 9:00-11:30 a.m. Two- and 3-year-olds meet from 9:00 a.m. to 1:45 p.m. on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday or Friday. A morning snack and lunch are provided.
Registration begins in August and classes start in mid-September. To contact the Preschool Director, Debbie Allen, please call First Federated Church at 309-685-5258 or e-mail at
Bo Peep
Bo Peep is offered to children who will turn 3 prior to September 1st of the year attending. Children must be toilet-trained. Programs emphasize social development with children learning social skills through cooperative play and teacher-directed activities. We provide opportunities for participation in a wide variety of activities including art, cooking, music, dramatization, field trips and free play. Teachers also emphasize cognitive skills and language development.
Two programs are available:
- Three mornings (Monday-Wednesday-Friday) 9:00-11:30 a.m.
- Two mornings (Tuesday-Thursday) 9:00-11:30 a.m.
Registration begins in February and classes start after Labor Day in September.
To contact the Preschool Director, Debbie Allen, please call First Federated Church at 309-685-5258 or e-mail .
Jack & Jill
Jack and Jill is offered to 4- and 5-year-olds. Children must turn 4 prior to September 1st of the year attending.
Two programs are available:
- Five mornings 9:00-11:30 a.m.
- Three afternoons (Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday) 12:00-2:30 p.m.
Our curriculum offers hands-on learning experiences through learning centers such as math, science, art, reading, dramatic play, big blocks, small blocks, manipulatives and sand. Our activities help in the development of both large and small motor coordination, as well as enhance the imagination. There is an emphasis on building independence, cooperation and social development with the goal of kindergarten preparedness. Units of study include bodyworks (human body), geography, solar system, rainforest, butterflies, car-building and artists. Our approach relies on encouragement and positive reinforcement.
Registration begins in February and classes start after Labor Day in September.
To contact the Preschool Director, Debbie Allen, please call First Federated Church at 309-685-5258 or e-mail .
After Care
This program, also known as "Lunch Bunch," is offered to students enrolled in either Jack and Jill Preschool or Bo-Peep Nursery School and provides an extended session to the morning preschool. The program provides free play, planned activities, a hot lunch and quiet time.
Parents may register their child for attendance on one, two or three afternoons per week from 11:30-2:30pm. Early registration begins in April and continues until classes begin in September.
To contact the Preschool Director, Debbie Allen, please call First Federated Church at 309-685-5258 or e-mail .
