Curriculum
"Education is a natural process carried out by the human individual, and is acquired not by listening to words, but by experiences in the environment.”~Maria Montessori
Language Arts
In the Montessori classroom, language arts are introduced through a blend of phonetics, storytelling, and writing activities. Children begin with hands-on materials like sandpaper letters, which they trace to learn the shapes and sounds of the letters in the alphabet, fostering a tactile and visual connection to language. As they progress, they move on to constructing words with movable alphabets, encouraging creativity and experimentation. This approach nurtures independence and curiosity, allowing each child to advance at their own pace and develop a love for reading and writing.
Mathematics
Montessori mathematics materials are designed to be self-correcting and hands-on, such as the golden beads for understanding the decimal system or number rods for learning quantities. Children learn abstract mathematical concepts through concrete materials, which they can manipulate, explore, and experiment with, promoting a deep understanding of mathematical principles. This method encourages independence, fosters concentration, and develops problem-solving skills through practice and repetition.
Natural Sciences
The natural sciences in a Montessori environment are taught through exploration and experimentation. Children engage with materials and activities that allow them to observe, classify, and experiment with various elements of nature. This hands-on approach fosters a sense of curiosity and creativity, encouraging children to ask questions and seek answers independently. They learn about biology, botany, zoology, and physics by direct interaction with carefully prepared activities and materials in their environment.
History, Geography & Cultural Studies
Montessori education emphasizes a global perspective. Children explore history and geography through puzzle maps, timeline activities, and cultural artifacts, allowing them to physically interact with the materials. This tactile learning helps them understand complex concepts and develop a sense of respect and appreciation for different cultures and histories. It promotes a sense of order and independence as they explore and organize information on their own.
Academic Studies
Education of the Senses
Visual
Visual education in Montessori involves activities that refine a child's visual discrimination and perception. Children work with materials like color tablets, geometric solids, and picture cards to enhance their ability to distinguish differences in color, shape, and size. These activities support hands-on sensory learning and develop concentration and visual acuity.
Auditory
Auditory education is facilitated through sound-related activities, such as the Montessori sound boxes with sound cylinders, which help children differentiate between various pitches and volumes. Our Music Together program offers additional sensory training and sharpens their listening skills and auditory discrimination, essential for language development and music appreciation.
Tactile
Tactile education is integral to Montessori, with activities like the rough and smooth boards or fabric swatches that children can feel and compare. These exercises enhance their sense of touch and help them understand textures, contributing to fine motor skill development and hand-eye coordination.
Olfactory
Olfactory education involves activities that refine the sense of smell. Children engage in smelling exercises using scent bottles containing various fragrances. This sensory training helps them distinguish and categorize different smells, enhancing their sensory awareness and cognitive development.
Gustatory
Gustatory education is explored through tasting activities where children can sample and compare different flavors. These experiences develop their sense of taste and appreciation for various foods, encouraging healthy eating habits and culinary curiosity.
Stereognostic
Stereognostic education involves activities that develop the ability to recognize objects by touch alone. Children work with mystery bags or geometric solids to identify shapes and forms without using their sight. This sensory learning enhances their spatial awareness and tactile perception.
Practical Life
Education of Movement
Movement education in Montessori emphasizes purposeful movement through activities like pouring, transferring, singing, dancing, and walking on the line. These exercises develop gross and fine motor skills, coordination, and control, fostering independence and self-discipline.
Development of Good Work Habits
Montessori promotes the development of good work habits through routine and consistency. Children learn to care for their environment and themselves, fostering responsibility, respect, and a sense of order. These habits build a foundation for lifelong learning and personal growth.
Care of Self & Environment
Practical life activities teach children to care for themselves and their surroundings. They engage in tasks like dressing, cleaning, and gardening, which develop independence, self-confidence, and a sense of responsibility. These activities also enhance fine motor skills and concentration.
Respect for Self & Others
Montessori education emphasizes respect for oneself, others, and the learning environment through lessons in grace and courtesy. Children practice polite social interactions, conflict resolution, and empathy, fostering a harmonious and respectful community.
Concentration
Montessori materials and activities are designed to capture children's interest and sustain their focus. The prepared environment supports uninterrupted work periods, allowing children to develop deep concentration and a love for learning.
Sense of Order
Montessori environments are structured and orderly, with materials arranged logically and accessibly. This organization helps children develop a sense of order, which is crucial for cognitive development and independent learning.
Hand-Eye Coordination
Practical life and sensorial activities in Montessori education enhance hand-eye coordination. Tasks like threading beads, pouring water, and cutting with scissors develop fine motor skills and coordination, preparing children for writing and other academic tasks.
Independence and Self-Confidence
Montessori fosters independence by providing children with choices and opportunities to complete tasks on their own. This autonomy builds self-confidence and a sense of achievement, encouraging them to take on new challenges.
Indirect Preparation for Writing, Reading, Math
Practical life and sensorial activities indirectly prepare children for academic skills. Tasks like pouring, sorting, and sequencing develop fine motor skills, visual discrimination, and logical thinking, laying the groundwork for writing, reading, and mathematics.
Social Development
Grace and Courtesy
Grace and courtesy lessons teach children social skills and manners. They practice greeting others, using polite language, and showing kindness and respect, which fosters a positive social environment and strong interpersonal skills.
Circle & Story Time
Circle and story time promote social interaction, listening skills, and a love for literature. Children gather to share stories, sing songs, and discuss various topics, building a sense of community and enhancing language development.
Gardening
Gardening activities connect children with nature and teach them responsibility and care for living things. Through planting, watering, and harvesting, children learn about the life cycle, ecosystems, and the importance of sustainability.
Music
Music education in Montessori involves singing, playing instruments, and listening to various genres. Our school is a Music Together certified and offers a wealth of musical activities that develop auditory skills, rhythm, and an appreciation for music, fostering creativity and cultural awareness.
Dance
Dance activities allow children to express themselves through movement. They explore different styles and rhythms, enhancing their physical coordination, balance, and creativity while building self-confidence.
Theatre
Theatre activities encourage self-expression, imagination, and collaboration. Children participate in role-playing, puppet shows, and drama exercises, developing communication skills and emotional intelligence.
Show & Tell
Show and tell sessions provide children with an opportunity to share their interests and experiences. This activity enhances public speaking skills, self-confidence, and listening abilities, fostering a supportive and curious community.
Physical Education
Physical education activities promote physical health and well-being. Children engage in exercises, games, and sports that develop gross motor skills, coordination, teamwork, and a love for physical activity.
Enrichment Programs
Music
Music enrichment programs offer children advanced opportunities to explore instruments, rhythms, and melodies. These activities deepen their musical knowledge, creativity, and auditory skills.
Art
Art enrichment provides extended opportunities for creative expression. Children experiment with various mediums and techniques, developing their artistic skills and appreciation for visual arts.
Yoga
Yoga sessions in Montessori focus on physical well-being, mindfulness, and relaxation. Children practice poses and breathing exercises, enhancing their body awareness, concentration, and emotional regulation.
Spanish and Mandarin
Our Spanish and Mandarin classes introduce children to new languages and cultures. Through songs, stories, and interactive activities, they develop basic language skills and cultural understanding, fostering global awareness and curiosity.
Parental Involvement
Community Awareness Events
Community awareness events engage parents in the Montessori philosophy and school activities. These events build a strong school community and encourage parents to support their children's education and social development.
Celebration of Life
The celebration of life events honor children's birthdays and milestones. Parents participate in these celebrations, fostering a sense of belonging and recognizing each child's unique contributions.
Geography & Culture Presentations
Parents are invited to share their cultural backgrounds and travel experiences with the children. These presentations enrich the curriculum and promote cultural awareness and appreciation.
Family Potlucks and Celebrations
Family potlucks and celebrations bring the school community together, allowing families to share food, traditions, and experiences. These events build a strong sense of community and cultural exchange.
Gardening
Parents are encouraged to participate in school gardening projects. This collaboration promotes sustainability and environmental stewardship, providing valuable learning experiences for the children.
Parent Montessori Education Nights
Parent education nights provide insights into Montessori philosophy and methods. These sessions help parents understand and support their children's learning at home and in the classroom.
Parenting Workshops
Parenting workshops offer guidance and support on various parenting topics. These workshops empower parents with strategies to foster their children's development and well-being, aligning with Montessori principles.