infant/toddlers

pre-school

elementary

special classes

summer program

Infancy and Toddler hood Each precious child, living, loving, learning each day is a gift to this world. Dr. Maria Montessori observed what current research supports-that is, the foundation for life long learning and a happy, healthy whole child is developed in the first few years of life.  When the basic physical, emotional, and social needs of a very young child are consistently, respectfully and joyfully met, the child learns to trust.  Feeling safe and secure, he can then begin to explore all the wonders of his own self and world.  His experiences shape his impressions as he builds himself and grows.  Essential to this process is the consistent loving presence of a respectful, observant, knowledgeable adult. Also of great importance is a "prepared environment" that supports the child's natural developmental stages. The development of movement and language are highlighted during infancy and toddler hood. Repetition of movements refines capabilities.  By removing many of the containers that restrain the child's movements and instead providing items such as small low beds, tables and chairs, and specially designed large muscle equipment, we encourage the child to safely and fully develop movement.  Participation in practical daily living activities further develops coordination and independence. Many children become fluent in their native tongue (and other languages as well if there is exposure) by the age of three.  The youngest child observes and absorbs everything that goes on with and around him.  By verbalizing with and for the child, expanding his vocabulary, singing and engaging in conversation, we encourage language development in a variety of ways.  When the child is able to express himself verbally, he becomes connected with the entire world and is ready to take the next step in independence. So much goes on in the daily lives of our youngest children in our Montessori environment with each child being respected and assisted in his or her individual development.  Strong in spirit, treading joyfully along the pathway of life - this is how we live together with the little ones in our Montessori community. Montessori education - "An assist to life." A Montessori education is based on scientific observations made by Dr. Montessori of the young child.  Dr. Montessori said, "It is simply an assist to life."  She noted that young children learn with great ease by simply "absorbing" like a sponge everything to which they are exposed, rather than learning through logical analysis.  This is called the absorbent mind. Dr. Montessori found that there are periods during which the energy of the child's total being seems to be focused upon a particular stage of development such as walking, talking, writing, and reading.  These are called sensitive periods. In a Montessori classroom, the prepared learning environment is designed to support these sensitive periods of the children and allow them to easily learn at their own individual rhythm.