Programs

Early Montessori Preschool (Ages 2-3)

A transitional Montessori class offering introductory Montessori lessons preparing students for preschool while focusing on cooperative toilet training by parents and staff. This program explores all Montessori curricula areas with emphasis in the Practical Life area. Practical Life exercises at this age consists of practice of everyday activities including putting on shoes/coats, washing hands, putting works away and brushing teeth. Developmentally appropriate lessons in the other areas including language, math and grace/courtesy round out this program's curriculum. Teaching emphasis is placed on individual as well as group learning.

Traditional Montessori Preschool (Ages 3-5)

A traditional Montessori class offering a wide age range utilizing Montessori teaching methods and materials. Our Preschool experience offers exposure to all areas of the Montessori philosophy while incorporating some facets of more traditional teaching methods. Foreign language and computer lessons are incorporated into the curriculum. All areas are broken down into specific functions geared to the young child's intellectual and developmental levels. Lessons are presented with 2 or 3 dimensional materials allowing the child to see concepts clearly and move from concrete to more abstract ideas. Most lessons are self-correcting, letting the child experience error as part of the learning process. Available to toilet trained students only.

Pre-Kindergarten (4-5)

Children in this room include those who are 5 just after the traditionally determined cutoff date for Kindergarten (August 31st), as well as those children who are 4 by May 31st. Children who fall outside the age range will require an assessment before being admitted. This room is also appropriate for children whose parents may wish to delay Kindergarten enrollment for an additional year. This program exposes children to a broader and deeper coverage of Montessori curricula areas, as listed above. There is a more frequent emphasis on group learning, in preparation for a larger group Kindergarten experience. More challenging individualized lessons in reading, math, and problem solving are also completed providing heightened learning. Foreign language and computer lessons are incorporated into the curriculum. Additionally, this program focuses on the Montessori tenet of "Grace and Courtesy," encouraging further development of the child's social skills and manners.

Kindergarten (5-6)

A Kindergarten experience providing Montessori and traditional teaching techniques in preparation for first grade. Children enrolled in this program must be five years of age by August 31st. Children who fall outside the age range will require an assessment before being admitted. Our Kindergarten program provides a more intensive coverage of the Montessori curriculum areas including Practical Life, Sensorial, Language, Mathematics, Art, Music, Drama, Physical Education, Botany/Health, Geography, Computer Skills and Social Skills. Foreign language is incorporated into the curriculum. Students are encouraged to make responsible choices in their social and academic activities. As the student is preparing for elementary school, more frequent emphasis is placed on group learning. Assessments and conferences occur every trimester reflecting the academic standards adopted by Washington state.