Ages 3 to 6

A Montessori classroom is a world specially prepared for children. Children move about and choose materials from easily accessible shelves. They work on floor mats or at small tables. One child might paint, as another places beads into groups of ten to perform a multiplication function, and a third child prepares a snack, while the teacher works with a small group forming words using sandpaper letters.

The foundation of the Montessori experience is the primary program for children in the important early formative years.

The goal of the primary curriculum is to help the child develop mastery of self and environment, self-discipline and social competence. Using methods and materials developed by Dr. Montessori, the teacher provides a sequence of tasks sufficiently challenging and interesting to engage the child. These tasks or exercises are broken down into five areas of learning: daily living, sensorial, mathematics, language and cultural subjects.

Beginning with practical and social skills, children learn to keep track of their belongings, to put things away, to share materials. Academics are introduced through concrete, manipulative materials which utilize all five senses and lay the ground work for abstract thinking.

Activity is orderly, which allows children to function independently. Orderliness is achieved in a classroom where lessons of grace and courtesy guide children's behavior. In this natural setting of mixed-age youngsters, young children learn from older ones and older children reinforce their own knowledge by working with younger children.

A key principle which underlies and guides activities in a Montessori classroom is respect. Adults respect each child as an individual, a unique learner with specific strengths. Children learn respect for each other and for the learning materials through the lessons of grace and courtesy and from positive role models. Although a part of every day is devoted to individual work, children also enjoy social activities such as singing, storytelling and outdoor play. Children also begin learning a foreign language. Listening and speaking skills are emphasized as the children are introduced to French conversation, songs and culture. Physical education and library time are also included in the primary program.

Extended Day Program

Ages 3 to 6

The extended day program is for primary students ages three to six who are ready for a longer school day beyond noon.
Please note: The final primary year requires students to stay for the full day, and advanced academics are stressed during the afternoon time.