Programs
Early Childhood programs benefit the development of children as they interact naturally with other children and are introduced to concepts using manipulative materials. At A Child’s Garden, the teachers create a prepared environment with didactic Montessori materials that spark the child’s curiosity and desire. Additionally, each classroom is a rich cultural setting conducive to art appreciation, weekly music classes and Spanish language Montessori materials (available if needed).
Encouraging the child’s natural joy of learning, teachers present the sequential materials to the children throughout the various programs. These presentations unlock the child’s personal satisfaction of acquiring academic achievement, self-confidence and socialization in a non-threatening environment.
Depending upon age grouping, our teacher student ratio ranges from as low as 1:7 to 1:11. The school is open from 7 am to 6 pm with assisted car line at 8:30 am and 3:00 pm.
The Toddler Program (18 m. – 2.5 yrs.)
The Toddler program enables children between the ages of 18 months and 2 ½ yrs. to experience the joy of learning, to take care of themselves, others, and the environment by concentrating primarily on Practical Life and Sensorial exercises. At this age, the children expect a daily routine that aids in their feeling of security and accomplishment. This is the foundation for the child to interact with the world, feeling important and needed by others (initiation of self-confidence). During this period children learn to grasp, pour, sort, dress themselves, and begin to acquire a more complex vocabulary to improve their communication and social skills.
The Beginner Program (2 – 3 yrs.)
The Beginner program accommodates the special needs of young children, ages 2 to 3. A child introduced to the Montessori environment at an early age makes an easier transition into the pre-primary class. These young students have a keen sense of order and very early learn the process of choosing their “work,” repeating the exercises, and returning it to its proper place. Pre-language and pre-math materials are included for students as they progress. At this level the child develops deep concentration as he carries out an activity, practicing and repeating the activity to perfect his/her skills. During this period children learn letter sounds, number sequence and recognition, shapes, colors, vocabulary, self-control (potty training) and begin questioning the world (“the why period”).
The Pre-Primary Program (3 – 6 yrs.)
In this expanded environment, the Montessori curriculum includes Practical Life (for concentration and fine motor skills), Sensorial (for discrimination through the senses), and Academics such as Math, Geometry, Language, Science, Geography and Cultural Studies. Intellectual work develops at this level as the child works to create himself through concentration based on the foundation laid through Practical Life. During this period children learn to read and write, express themselves with full sentences, interconnect ideas, form their own ideas, math skills, leadership, collaboration, discipline and responsibility. This is a progressive learning experience that sets the foundation for the Montessori child adaptability, problem-solving and self-motivated aptitudes. The scope of materials available at this level span up to third grade level.
The Before and After School Program
The Before and After School program accommodates families who need extended care for their child. Children enrolled in this program (7:00–8:30 AM and/or 3:00–6:00 PM) may attend during the Child Care Only days listed on the school calendar. During this time children get to do most of their socialization with free playtime opportunities in a safe environment. Friendships and playmates are formed and integration among classrooms gives them broader opportunities to socialize.
Extra-Curricular Classes
All children who attend school on Fridays participate in our excellent enrichment Music Program, under the direction of Ms. Susan Younghans. Children enjoy singing, creative movement, real-size musical instruments, and performance skills, culminating in a musical production in the Spring.
Additionally, extra-curricular classes are offered during our after school care hours to children enrolled in our half-day, full-day, and child care programs. Classes offered include KinderDance, Art Amore Kids, KidStage (Drama), Tutoring (Reading, Math, and Handwriting) and Spanish.