Review First School’s Curriculum

A Comprehensive Preschool Curriculum in Dayton, Ohio

At First School, we follow Ohio’s Early Learning Standards to shape our preschool curriculum in Dayton, Ohio. We go above and beyond these requirements through best practices in both our preschool and kindergarten programs. Our goal is to challenge students to be active learners who thrive in preschool and beyond.

Our dedicated teachers foster a nurturing environment where children feel safe, supported, and inspired to explore. Through hands-on learning, creative play, and individualized instruction, we help each child build confidence, critical thinking skills, and a lifelong love of learning. At First School, we're not just preparing children for kindergarten—we’re laying the foundation for a bright academic future.

About Our Programs

Starting with our Learn with Me program, students are gradually introduced to new experiences and information through our unique early childhood education. Each year after, skills are reviewed, reinforced, and expanded upon, so there is a natural progression from a focus on social, sensory, and language skills to more advanced topics. This culminates in kindergarten and first-grade preparation, focusing on literacy, math, science, critical thinking, physical development, and creativity.

These six areas of learning are dynamic, meaning that the way in which we present them changes as the children in our classes change. First School has the unique ability to allow each age level an individual teacher who creates lesson plans pulling from these areas of learning simultaneously. We do not receive lessons from a corporate office; our teachers have the freedom and flexibility to think creatively and set challenging goals for our preschool and kindergarten programs.

Why Our Schools are the Right Fit for Your Child?

Our Montessori Approach

At First School, we incorporate Montessori-inspired principles into our early childhood education to encourage independence, self-confidence, and a lifelong love of learning. Our classrooms are designed to empower children to explore at their own pace, make choices, and develop critical thinking skills in a structured yet nurturing environment.

Through hands-on activities, self-directed learning, and individualized guidance, students build strong foundations in both academic and social development. This child-centered approach respects each student’s unique learning style and helps them grow into curious, capable, and compassionate individuals.

Reviews about First School Dayton

Megan Lucente 5 Years Ago

Payton Taulbee

18:22 08 Apr 25

This preschool is one of a kind. My family feels like we are apart of a true school family here at First School. Their passion to not only educate but care for their students and families goes a long way.

Haley Arriaga

18:50 29 Apr 19

I was super nervous when it was time to send the kids to preschool, First School has made it such a great experience and The kids love it there!

Kaylee Giffhorn

16:12 29 Apr 19

We love this school so much! My daughter looks forward to going every week. Each class is small, so the kids get very specific instruction. The teachers always have creative and fun learning activities for them and all their lesson plans are geared toward getting them ready for Kindergarten. The teachers and other staff are the nicest and most professional people. Everyone knows my child’s name and they are always so happy to see her when she comes through the door. She has learned so much in a matter of a few months and has made really good friends there. The pick-up and drop-off are super easy because you just drive through and they take your child out for you and put them in the car for you when you come pick them up. It is so convenient if you have multiple kids with you. I just adore this unique little school and would highly recommend for anyone who is looking for a place for their child to learn and grow in a loving, safe environment.

Lauren Dressman

15:35 29 Apr 19

First school is a hidden gem! My husband and I are both alumni and now our oldest son attends. Just with in one year, I've notice a change in his language, counting and imagination! We plan to send our second son as well!

Terri Pelley

15:35 29 Apr 19

We LOVE First School. Have sent our first child for two years and the second child is enrolled for the Fall. The teachers care a lot and have provided such a wonderful learning environment. My 5 year old seems well prepared for kindergarten!

Becca Virzi

15:28 29 Apr 19

I can’t say enough about how incredible this school is! First, I love it because it is just a school, not a daycare/preschool combo. Second, the growth I’ve seen in my daughter this year is proof that First School is a nurturing and educational environment. The self-confidence, independence, and knowledge that she has developed impresses me everyday. The staff and facilities are everything I could ever hope for in a preschool. I am so grateful for this resource in our community.

Megan Lucente

15:21 29 Apr 19

My family and I love First School. My daughter started in the Learn With Me Class and will be moving to drop-off preschool next fall and we couldn’t imagine it with anyone else. Every single staff member is nice and very helpful. My daughter has only had one teacher so far but they all know her by name and say hi to her everytime we are in. We will be with First School until she is age ready for elementary school!

TammyS

14:29 14 Aug 17

Hands down the best preschool experience we could have hoped for! From the "Learn with Me" program through Preschool 4's, our son learned not only things to prep him for kindergarten this year, but also valuable social skills. The faculty and staff could not be more loving to the children or more helpful to families. The one and only small issue we had with a concern of ours was resolved quickly and with compassion. Our daughter will definitely be a student at First School as soon as she is old enough!