The Montessori Environments

 

Each Montessori classroom environment operates on the principle of freedom within limits. The guidelines are based on the fundamental Montessori beliefs of respect for self, respect for each other, and respect for the environment. Through this, the children are able to function and “work” in a safe, nurturing, and positive climate. 

 

The Infant Environment

Imagine out-of-home care for your infant that you can view as positive and progressive, rather than a drawback in today’s society. We did, and we set out to achieve it. 

 

Studies have repeatedly shown a direct correlation between physical and mental development. As a result of these observations, we have created a beautiful, spacious environment that is custom designed for infants. They enjoy freedom of movement in which to discover and interact with their surroundings. This freedom of movement, along with activities that develop and enhance gross motor skills; like grasping, reaching, and climbing, is what makes a Montessori infant classroom stand out from the rest. The teachers know when to step in to assist and when to step back and let the children discover on their own.

Language development is an essential part of the Montessori Infant program. The teachers introduce language through the use of words, inflection, tone, and body language. Infants gather their first understanding of the world through these types of interaction. Sign language is introduced to the infants as soon at they begin the program. This allows the child to learn the hand-signal for common words and wants in order to get their needs met before they are able to speak.

 

Close communications between home and school are fundamental aspects of our community. Above all else, we work hard to create a warm, nurturing, and loving atmosphere for the infants in our care with materials and staff that aid in their development. We treat every child with respect and as the unique individual that they are.

 

The Toddler Environment

Children at the toddler age are working hard at building the foundation for their character. Self-esteem, purpose, social skills, and grace and courtesies are the greater part of the toddler’s learning processes, Montessori’s ‘multi-age’ philosophy allows for older children to assist the younger children, while the younger children learn from and mimic the older children.

 

It is our first mission to appeal to the child’s natural curiosity. With this in mind, the environment is prepared in such a way that encourages free exploration while also becoming a functioning member of a social group. Activities are positioned around the room in a manner that inspires the children to move about, choosing work independently. The toddlers begin to experience concepts such as sequencing, gradations, forms, shapes, textures, and sounds. The activities change and evolve as the child grows physically, emotionally, and intellectually

 

Child-sized tables, chairs, sinks, stools, bookshelves and toilets, allow the toddler to become independent and build on his self-esteem. They experience the rewarding feeling of “I can do it myself”.

 

To further this sense of self accomplishment and pride, the toddler environment is full of Practical Life activities which the child can do himself. These activities include tasks that we as adults take for granted and include such things as; getting dressed/undressed, preparing food, setting the table, sweeping/mopping the floor, pouring from a pitcher, spooning and scooping and much more.  

 

The toddler teachers all strive to provide the respect, tenderness, warmth, and patience that the children deserve and that best allows each child to blossom as a unique and confident individual. 

 

The Primary Environment

Our lead teachers are AMI (Associates Montessori Internationale) certified professionals, with an in-depth comprehensive understanding of the young child's needs and development.

 

 

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