One of the most significant differences in a Montessori classroom is that children ages 3-6 are grouped together in one classroom. Because of this three-year age mixture, the children are exposed to many advanced activities that might not be available in a classroom with same-age children. The younger children watch the older children and get excited about the activities others are working with, and want to challenge themselves to continue progressing so they, too, can work with these more advanced materials. The older children take great pride in taking the leadership role in the classroom, often helping the younger children with activities and helping them learn something in a new way. The interaction among the three age groups is an integral part of the Montessori experience, as all are interacting with each other and learning from one other.
Language based learning begins with pre-reading and pre-writing through advanced writing and leveled book reading.
Science material allows the children to experiment with basic science principles, as well as in-depth studies of weather and changes in nature.
Sensorial learning fosters and refines the senses through materials that engage the children’s visual, auditory, and sensory touch skills.
Geography allows the children to learn as a group about the seven continents, studying one continent each month, learning the culture of the countries within the continent.
Practical life learning fosters development of concentration, coordination, fine-motor control, and independence.
Math material begins with early counting and number recognition work and progress through addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
Art uses of a wide variety of media throughout the year and samplings are featured at our end-of-year art show