Toddler Classes
Warm, caring Certified Montessori teachers guide the children in a program that
is geared towards the individual child's developmental stage, using Montessori
materials and principals. The classroom is set up with different areas including
practical life, sensorial, beginning math and language, as well as blocks,
puzzles and library areas. The emphasis is on developing language skills and
interpersonal relationships. The children learn to respect the rights of others,
to choose their own work and be responsible for returning it to the shelf.
They participate in small group activities and become independent. Indoor and
outdoor activities are designed to improve large and small motor skills.
Preschool Classes
There are four classes for the 3-5 year old preprimary children, they
are staffed by certified Montessori teachers. The children spend time
with equipment that helps to develop concentration, coordination and
working habits necessary for the more advanced exercises they will perform
at age five. The entire program of learning is purposely structured.
Children move from work with shapes to letters and numbers, and then
on to simple word reading and math problems. History, nature, geography
and sciences are explored in increasing depth with each year, beginning
with simple stories, pictures and art projects for three year olds. The
children learn to think before they act, to consider the needs of others
and to be safe.
Kindergarten
The Kindergarten class has a smaller enrollment than a standard elementary
school kindergarten class. The smaller size provides the opportunity
for individualized interaction between the student and the teacher. Unlike
a standard elementary class the children work at their own level and
pace. When they master one level they move onto the next. They are required
to complete a set amount of work appropriate to their level each day.
There is a focus on mastering basic math, reading and writing skills.
Children are encouraged to become more independent. Weekly topics ranging
from the rain forest to the solar system are introduced and formally
discussed in a group setting. Other experiences the children are exposed
to include a foreign language, and daily readings. There are some aspects
typical of elementary classrooms that have been introduced to ease the
child's later transition into public school.
Elementary
In a small group setting, the children in this kindergarten first grade
class work individually, at their own level and pace, in reading, writing
and math. To easethe transition into their next school environment, the
children write journals, have weekly spelling tests (at different levels),
assigned seats and some group lessons.Geography and science are presented
through hands on materials and experiments. The children learn about
artists, composers and musical instruments do sports, foreign language,
learn to play a recorder and have fun.
Thinking
of Montessori for Kindergarten or first grade? read this artical written
by our Elementary class teacher.