The Montessori Method

Our school philosophy is based on the method of education developed by Italian physician and educator Dr. Maria Montessori and the belief that we all have a desire to learn.

The goals of Montessori education are to cultivate each child’s natural desire to learn, acquire and master skills, learn responsibility and cooperation, and to foster strong, positive feelings about oneself and others. The method addresses the total child – developing social skills, emotional growth, physical coordination, and cognitive preparation, within a thoughtfully prepared environment.

The Montessori classroom is prepared with materials selected and designed to meet the needs of each individual child. There is a wide range of materials to allow varied levels of difficulty and challenge.

Characteristics that distinguish a Montessori program are:

Mixed Age Groupings

Each class is comprised of children of multiple ages.

• Nido: 8 weeks to 15-18 months
• Toddler House: 16 months to 2.9-3 years
• Children’s House: 2 years 9 months to 6 years
• Kinder House: 4yr 10mo to 6 years old (5 by 11/1)

This allows for peer teaching, broad social interactions, individual differences in learning style and pace, and creates a social community of family. It provides the youngest students with role models and the older students with peer teaching opportunities for reinforcement of learning.

Individualized Instruction

Each child learns and develops at her/his own pace through the use of materials and lessons introduced by trained staff. The integrated curriculum is introduced sequentially and at the developmental level of each individual child, allowing every child to work to capacity and at their ability level.

Child Directed Program

Within the structure of the classroom and curriculum, children are encouraged to pursue their interests, make responsible choices for themselves and direct themselves to constructive activities. Since children’s interests vary, this opportunity results in an independent, self-motivated learner.

Prepared Environment

The school environment is prepared with a variety of specially designed Montessori materials that are multi-sensory, sequential, and self-correcting. Educational materials are carefully selected to meet the needs of range of students in each class.

Specialized Staff

In addition to background and experience in early childhood education, educators receive specialized training in the Montessori Method. Training programs throughout the world prepare and certify teachers in the field. The course of study includes educational philosophy, academic training in the curricula areas, early childhood development, classroom management, and use of materials for individual lessons.

Hands-on Approach To Learning

The use of materials for learning in the Montessori classroom is an integral part of the program from preschool through kindergarten.  Children learn by doing.

Whole Language Approach to Reading

Literacy materials are found in all areas of the curriculum.  Activities and lessons are student generated according to ability and learning style.

Learning is an exciting process of discovery, concentration, and mastery.