Jessica Abbott
Jessica Abbott is the Director of Early Explorations Childcare Center, bringing years of experience, passion, and dedication to her leadership role. Originally from Buffalo, New York, Jessica moved to Illinois in 2010 to be with her husband, Eric. She is the proud mother of two daughters, Skylar (born in 2018) and Savannah (born in 2022), and brings both professional and personal insight into early childhood development.
Jessica began her journey with Early Explorations in 2017 as a classroom teacher. Her talent for connecting with children and supporting their development quickly became apparent. In 2020, she was promoted to Assistant Director, where she expanded her skills in administration, leadership, and center management. Her commitment and growth in this role led to her promotion to Director of Early Explorations in January 2026.
Jessica holds an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Development and is deeply passionate about creating a nurturing, engaging, and safe environment where children can grow, explore, and thrive. She is dedicated to maintaining the high standards and caring culture of Early Explorations.
Anji Causey
Anji Causey is the Director of Early Explorations Too, bringing a decade of leadership, classroom experience, and a deep passion for early childhood education to the center. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville and has been dedicated to the field ever since.
Anji began her journey at Early Explorations Too in 2015 as a preschool teacher. Her commitment to quality care led to her promotion to Assistant Director in 2016, and she stepped into the role of Director just a year later in 2017. In January 2023, Anji became part-owner of Early Explorations Too, continuing to invest her time and expertise into the center’s long-standing reputation for excellence.
Beyond her professional life, Anji has been happily married to her husband, Andrew, for 20 years as of 2025. They share their home with their cat, Phoebe. In her free time, Anji enjoys playing trivia, building LEGO sets, watching Friends, and baking with her nephew and niece.
Anji is passionate about creating a nurturing, engaging, and developmentally rich environment for all children in her care.
