The Montessori philosophy allows for every child to develop his/her potential for creativity, initiative, independence, inner discipline, and confidence. This is accomplished by using the proper tools, guidance, and the environment.
Usually when the children come into the classroom, the first thing the child does is greet the teacher. They then hang up their jacket and change into their inside shoes. Then the child will begin to work on individual activities that he/she is being presented with in the classroom. During this “work-time”, the children will continue different activities individually or in a group. The teacher gives individual or group lessons according to the child’s abilities and interests. Depending on the children’s work cycle, the teacher will decide when to have the circle time. In circle time the teacher teaches songs, reads stories, talks about different animals, different cultures, grace and courtesy, They may also dance or play games. Close to the dismissal time the child will get ready to go home while helping the others to get ready.
Children can start as early as 12 months at Kinderhaus Montessori Academy. Children Can start at 2.5 yrs at Kinderhaus Montessori Preschool.
According to Montessori way, the truly disciplined child achieves discipline through activity. Allowing the child to choose interesting work, become absorbed in it, and to complete it helps the child to develop their concentration, habits of order, work and discipline.
The Montessori children are allowed to move freely and have access to all the learning materials they require. They are allowed to work with the materials as long as they like. When the children “work” with the materials it feels like “play” to them, but in the Montessori environment the student is actually working towards mastery of skills and subjects. They are, therefore, intrinsically motivated by a natural love of learning. Children are given individual lessons and that gives them the security of knowing how to work with the many activities in the classroom.
We teach our students to work independently and within groups. They are very adaptable. They are problem solvers and can make choices and manage their time well. Montessori children have a positive attitude toward learning. Therefore they adapt quite easily into any school.
During the 3-year cycle, the teacher, student, and peers create a rich relationship based upon trust and understanding of learning styles. In this little community of learners, the older children naturally assist the younger ones with everyday activities such as zipping up jackets, tying shoes and helping with their work. They naturally take a leadership role sharing knowledge and experience to the younger students while acquiring new skills and achievement. The younger children eagerly observe and copy the work and activities of their older mentors. A multi-age classroom promotes collaborative learning and encourages a strong community.
Montessori emphasizes learning through all five senses, not just listening, watching or reading as in traditional education. In a Montessori classroom, children lean at their own pace, according to their abilities and activities. Montessori believes learning is an exciting process of discovery leading to concentration, motivation, self-discipline, and a love of learning
The parents of our past students are extremely happy with our program. Many of them have provided testimonials as to the effectiveness of the program and how well the program prepared their children for higher grades. Research studies show that the Montessori children are well prepared for later life academically, socially, and emotionally.
Homework is not mandatory or expected. We understand that many parents would like to get involved. Our recommendation is that you set up a time to volunteer in the classroom. This will give parents a better understanding as to why homework is not required.
We will be having parent teacher interviews. At this time we will review your child’s progress. Each parent is expected to attend a classroom session twice a year for observation.
The Montessori directress is a specialist in promoting personal and academic success by creating the correct environment according to the needs of each child.. She monitors and recognizes the smallest of changes within the student’s success. She is very aware of her responsibility to both the students and the student’s parents. She monitors the students daily and provides them with lessons necessary for their success. The relationship between home and school is important and she recognizes the importance of communication between the parents and the teacher.