The Montessori Early Learning Center offers a preschool/kindergarten and childcare program based on the philosophy, psychological principles and teaching methods developed by Dr. Maria Montessori, as well as research and contemporary thinking in the area of early childhood education. Based on the child's natural development, Montessori education challenges the child's growth potential through systematic use of specially designed materials and activities, available to the child in an organized "prepared environment." Intrinsically motivated and curious to explore, the child learns through direct experiences and activities in his/her environment. This self-education establishes a sense of order, logical thought processes and a firm foundation for future success in academics. Montessori education focuses on the individual child in the social setting of a group. The classroom can be viewed as an organized society of small children with the directress guiding the children at their own paces according to their interests and abilities. With freedom of choice and movement, each child finds that he can learn from and contribute to others, thus developing the self-confidence needed for continued development. ...read more