Montessori School Educational Philosophy
The Children’s School was established in 1986 on the belief that children between birth and age 6 develop physically, intellectually, emotionally and socially at a rate that will never again be duplicated.
Our philosophy is based on the work of Dr. Maria Montessori, an Italian physician and educator. She is credited with discovering the early years of life as crucial to the future growth and functioning of the individual. Upon entering The Children’s School, you and your child will feel a sense of mutual respect and community. Teachers use these environmental qualities in order to expose children to meaningful learning experiences thus allowing them to educate themselves at their own developmental level.
Play is children’s “work” and one of the most effective teachers. At The Children’s School, all children are valued as individuals. Our child-directed program allows children choices of activities and learning setting. Children in control of their own learning build confidence in themselves and are then willing to take on life’s challenges and become successful in future endeavors. Montessori children thrive academically.
Montessori Philosophy
The goal of Montessori education is to encourage independence, love of learning and a positive sense of self in a prepared environment. Each child is encouraged to function independently at his/her own developmental rate. In the traditional 3-year pre-primary, multi-age Montessori program, the child is exposed to areas that enhance independent thought, concentration, order and creativity. In this environment, the child has the opportunity to develop academically, socially and emotionally, to his or her full potential and to become the person they are to become.
The Montessori Curriculum
The Children’s School’s Montessori curriculum guides children through hands-on activities that develop a life-long love of learning. Independence, concentration, coordination, respect, a sense of order and problem-solving skills form the foundation. Math, reading, science, foreign language, art, music and movement, communication, social, emotional and physical development excel once this foundation has been laid.
The three-strand curriculum of (1) practical life skills (motor and social development), (2) sensory skills (refinement of the five senses) and (3) academic skills (math, reading, writing, science, geography, etc.) provide for a unique educational balance. The hands-on materials require a minimum of adult instruction, isolate specific concepts and allow each child endless opportunities for self-education.
Programs & Admissions
Two, three, four and five-day, half-day and full day programs are available to children ages 3-5. The half day is 8:30 – 12:30. The full day program is from 8:30 – 3:30.
Interested families are invited to call us at 401-683-5850 to schedule a tour of the school. This first visit is without the child, designed to give the parent/guardian an opportunity to observe and ask questions without distraction. The child may then be given an opportunity to enjoy a visit to the classroom with a parent/guardian.