Boys and girls 3 to 6 years of age are accepted into the Montessori Pre-K and Kindergarten. Each class includes students of all ages. This mixed age grouping allows for a natural development of respect and cooperation. The younger children learn from the older while the older children are introduced to the role of leader. The philosophy of the Montessori method is based on the idea that this age group has the unique ability to absorb and to learn from the world around it. The Montessori world is a child centered community where individual creativity is fostered and the learning process is paced by the inner motivation of each child. This carefully prepared environment is scaled to a child’s mental, social, and physical development. The natural inquisitive nature of the child is free: free to touch, handle, rearrange, open, shut… to explore, observe, experiment, compare and relate… to discover for himself or herself. Children essentially teach themselves in an atmosphere of intellectual freedom under the direction of trained Montessori teachers. The teacher’s role is to enhance each child’s process of exploration and discovery.

In this atmosphere of intellectual freedom, the child’s education begins with exercises in practical living which develop muscular coordination and physical independence. The habit of concentration is established early.

Within the Montessori classroom are various areas available for “work” by each child with attractive and inviting tools, which allow discovery through the use of the senses: sight, sound, touch, taste and smell. The mathematics area provides stimulating manipulatives for experimentation and invention, while the language area puts emphasis on the spoken word using alphabet sounds and vocabulary. Self-expression is encouraged in the art and music areas. The practical life area instills a sense of accomplishment as the children learn to respect and actively maintain the cleanliness and orderliness of their surroundings.

The child responds to the joy of learning and self-discovery. Children adhere to the ground rules of order, respect for materials, and respect for one another.