What is Montessori?
Developed by Maria Montessori in Rome in the early 1900s, is child-centered, with teachers serving as guides. In the Montessori school, play is a child’s work. While there is a focus on academics, the distinguishing feature is that children learn at their own pace. There are special Montessori materials called “Manipulative” that are self-corrective; this means that a child knows if they assembled a puzzle correctly, for example, based on the materials fitting together, not because someone showed the child how to do it. “In Montessori programs it’s really the teacher’s job to help the kids find their way into the materials, a lot of which look like puzzles that engage the child at this level. “Kids work at whatever level they are working at. You don’t organize the room according to a specific age.”
That focus on letting children learn at their own pace also affects how classrooms are arranged, with children with different ages all being in the same room. This allows the older children to serve as role models for the younger ones, and also exposes children to different ages. Children generally have the same teacher for those different ages, allowing close teacher-student relationships to develop. The mixed-age aspect also encourages older children to help the younger children, which helps build their self-esteem.
Montessori or a “play-based” program?
Play-based programs are designed to let the children through individual play and social Play. While this is very important aspect of a child’s development, we believe that it is also important that children are given the opportunities to build on all areas of their intellectual skills.
Our program combines the qualities of play-based but with an academic approach, allowing for growth in all areas of development. It would be beneficial for parents to compare different Childcare programs before enrolling their child
Why choose a Montessori program for your child?
As parents, by familiar yourself with the types of programs available in your area, will help you make the right decision for your child. Happy Feet Montessori childcare center inspire confidence, nurture the child's desire for learning, discovery, and social interaction skills in a positive environment where teachers are encouraging, engaging and value the individual child. Our Montessori Program that will fill all your child’s Educational and Developmental needs. With Multi-age grouping children have the unique opportunity to fulfill their potential and this prepares each child for future academic and social excellence.
Who can I call to find out more?
If you would like to view the classroom and materials, talk with one of our teachers, or receive more information on our program, please call:
778-318-6725
We are accepting registrations on a first-come first-served basis.