Our curriculum is constantly evolving as the needs of the children grow and change. The materials are divided into six main areas. Each area has materials that are displayed sequentially. As the children choose and master one piece of material they are free to move on to the next. Our Montessori approach to learning supports the development of independence, coordination, self-discipline and increased concentration while developing the whole child's academic, social, emotional, physical and cultural growth.

Practical Life exercises instill care for self, for others, and for the environment. Activities include many of the tasks children see as part of the daily routine in their home, such as preparing food and washing dishes, along with the exercises of grace and courtesy. Through these tasks, the children develop refined motor coordination, increased attention span and personal independence.

                 

Sensorial materials serve as tools to stimulate and refine the senses. Children learn to order and classify impressions by touching, seeing, smelling, tasting, listening and exploring their physical environment. Patterning, grading and sequencing exercises serve as direct preparation for Math and Language.

Language is vital to human interaction. Each child is exposed to many varied activities in preparation for reading. The activities include verbal self-expression, classifying and sequencing, phonetic sounds and blends, word building and vocabulary, stories, poetry, listening games and writing.

Mathematic materials help the children learn the concepts of math by manipulating concrete materials. Once the concrete introduction is internalized the child moves into abstract reasoning and problem solving.

Science, Life science - Botany and Zoology; Physical Science - experiments; and Earth Sciences - Physical Geography and Geology. All are presented as extensions of the sensorial and language activities and once a month we have a science specialist who shares his knowledge with the children! Our lessons and experiences with nature such as gardening and animal care and forest /wetlands exploration inspire reverence for all life.

Cultural Activities are limited to the study of the Earth's physical geography and the cultures of its diverse peoples but also to the arts, music and foods. Children learn about people and cultures in other countries with an attitude of respect and admiration. Through familiarity, children come to feel connected to the global human family. As we discuss the customs and holidays of many cultures we are also teaching Peace Education, teaching care or the earth and also care for the earth’s diverse people.