Q: How is your program different from other preschools?
A:
In most preschools, the children are taught concepts in a group lead by a teacher. In a Montessori classroom where there is a 3 year age range, children learn from one another as much as from the teacher and from the wide array of stimulating materials that the teachers have prepared. These materials are created in response to each child's interests and ability. Children learn in an un-graded, non-competitive environment and are free to progress at their own pace.
Q: What is the daily schedule?
A: In our three hour programs the children will usually have a minimum of two hours individual work time, group time and outdoor time. During those three hours, snack is provided by the school and children will either have group snack (at the beginning of the year) or individual snack (as of October). The full day students have lunch at 11:30, recreation from 12:15 to 1:00 and then those who need to rest, have a sleep time. The others go into the afternoon class and continue their work. After 3:30 the children will get involved in art, outdoor, drama, movement or story time activities.
Q: What is your policy on discipline?
A:
It is our belief that a child who is respected and appropriately challenged will act in a socially acceptable manner, respect his or her classmates, the teacher and his or her classroom. Positive reinforcement of what the child is doing or trying to do well, is the greatest deterrent to problems of a disciplinary nature. Should a situation occur (physical or verbal abuse of others, serious misuse of the material, serious separation anxiety) we:
-
1.) work more closely with the child
2.) act as a mediator
3.) help the child to find challenging work
4.) encourage the child to do what he can do well
Should the behaviours persist, we will notify and conference with the parents to establish a consistent discipline policy at home and at school. We will confer with the parents regularly, however if we feel that the child has not made any progress, we reserve the right to ask the child to withdraw.
Q: What feedback can I expect from the school?
A:
Three times a year the school sets aside time for the parents to visit the class and observe the children in action. These classroom visits are followed by conferences with the teachers or written reports and sometimes both. Because we are in partnership with the parents concerning the growth and well being of their child, we also make our home telephone numbers available for consultation when any concern or issue arises. In addition, we create an informative monthly newsletter.
Q: Does my child need to be potty trained?
A: While it is preferred, it is not mandatory. Our facility has child sized toilets and the mere observation of another child using the toilet is enough to encourage a child to do the same...peer pressure! In a friendly way!
Q: If we go on a holiday during the school year, are we responsible for the tuition during that time?
A:Yes. We hold the spot for your child and no other child will be admitted during that time.
Q: Which kindergarten should my child attend after their two preschool years?
A:
Your child can continue his/her kindergarten year in our school. Our materials provide challenges in areas which are traditionally considered elementary school work. Parents may choose either the full day or opt to attend for half days in combination with another public school or private school kindergarten program.
Q: Do you offer summer programs?
A: Yes. Each summer we offer two week long programs for the children that, in keeping with the Montessori philosophy, enrich and expand the children’s ability and view of the world around them. Past summer programs include “Kids in the Kitchen” and “Crafts in the Garden”. Contact us for this year’s programs!