Notes for Prospective Students: |
- Programs
* Toddler Class - 18 months to 3 years
* Primary Class - 3 years to 6 years through kindergarten
* Elementary Grades - 6 years to 12 years, grades 1-6
Program Placements
Although each program serves children within general age guidelines, these age ranges are not absolute. Because children are unique, program placement is made with consideration of their individual needs.
The Toddler Class enrollment cut off date is two and a half years old. The toddler child must be taking only 1 nap per day (no longer taking morning naps), walking securely on their feet, going up and down stairs, eating finger foods, etc.
The class is lively and spontaneous, but you will see the beginnings of concentration and genuine social awareness. The program is rich with language acquisition and budding social skills. The room is arranged to allow toddlers to move about freely, and to socialize among themselves. The teacher moves peacefully about, conversing, encouraging or simply observing. As the children become able, they take an active role in the running of class, preparations and feeding themselves, as well as their toileting needs. The materials look simple, but are very precisely designed. Most of the activity is individual. There are two - three adults for each group of 12 toddlers.
The Primary Class enrollment cut off date is 5 years old. The Primary child no longer is wearing a diaper during the day and is past daily bowel movement accidents. Additionally, the child is losing the toddler gait, is able to communicate verbally as well as respond to simple spoken instruction. Finally, the child must be able to function physically and comfortably within the Primary environment.
Academics are presented at this level. Language, Math, Zoology, Geography, Practical Life and Sensorial areas are part of this classroom. Their work leads to concentration and is therefore often individual. The teacher moves quietly among the children, presenting activities to individuals or small groups. Large group activities are less frequent.
The Elementary Class generally requires prior Montessori experience. The Elementary student must meet academic standards set by the Montessori primary program, and also showing physical, emotional and social signs of entering the second plane of development.
Elementary Students 1st - 3rd Grade refine the basic skills acquired during the primary years such as reading, writing and mathematics but in a more intellectual than sensorial realm. The Montessori curriculum includes several major areas of study - geography, mathematics, language, history, biology, earth science, art, music and physical education.
Elementary Students 4th - 6th Grade further extend their knowledge base through the more advanced materials. They also interact more independently in the outdoor environment both on the land and with the community in general. While having a more independent role in their learning process, they are still assisted by the teacher. Classic Montessori materials are used less as the students move toward more abstract and integrated ways of reasoning.
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