FAQs
What is Montessori and How Does it Work?
The Montessori Method is a child-centered educational method based on the child development theories originated by Italian educator Maria Montessori (1870–1952) in the late nineteenth and early twentieth century. Primarily applied in preschool and elementary school settings its method of education is characterized by emphasizing self-directed activity on the part of the child, and observation on the part of the teacher. This method stresses the importance of adapting the child’s ‘prepared’ learning environment to his or her development level. It also emphasizes the role of sensorial activity in the child’s ability to absorb abstract concepts and learn life skills. Self-correcting equipment is used for introducing and learning concepts, and reading is taught via phonics and whole language.
Each Montessori classroom, from birth through high school, operates on the principal of freedom of choice within limits. Every program has a set of ground rules which differs from age to age, but is always based on core Montessori beliefs- respect for each other and for the environment.
Children are free to work at their own pace with materials they have chosen, either alone or with others. The teacher relies on his or her observations of the children to determine which new activities and materials maybe introduced to an individual or group. The teacher also works regularly with children in a one on one situation to best determine a direction for their individual learning style. The aim is to encourage active, self-directed learning and to strike a balance of individual mastery within small group collaborations within the whole group community.
The multi-year span in each classroom provides a family like grouping where learning can take place naturally. More experienced children share what they have learned while reinforcing their own learning. Because this peer group learning is intrinsic to Montessori there is often more conversation – language experiences- in the Montessori classroom than in conventional settings.
Research has shown that a good predictor of future success is a positive sense of self-esteem. Montessori programs, based on self-directed, non-competitive activities, help children develop good self-images and the confidence to face challenges with optimism.
Below find more information pertaining to our school.
For further inquiries please contact us using the link in the left side menu.
Admission
How do I apply?
Applications for admission are accepted during the year preceding the childs entrance. Interviews are conducted to determine a childs readiness for school. Admissions are for September of the following year with January admissions possible when space is available and admissions requirements are met. Read more...
Kindergarten FAQ
What is Kindergarten Enrichment?
Kindergarten Enrichment is a program which we offer in the afternoon. In
addition to the continuation of their Montessori cycle of learning, children in their
3rd year/Kindergarten year will experience a variety of programs to enhance our
existing curriculum. The Kindergarten Enrichment Program is designed to give
the children an introduction to some of the events they are likely to encounter
once they graduate and enter first grade. It is designed to aid in the transition to a
new environment and continue their preparation for a lifetime of learning. Read more...
After three years in Montessori, won’t my child be bored in first grade?
The Montessori school cultivates a highly motivated child with a true love of
learning; a child with a positive attitude toward school is motivated to learn in any
environment. In the third year your child becomes a role model to the younger
children. This opens a whole new world of confidence and a proud sense of
responsibility.
Teachers respond favorably to children who are curious, self – disciplined and
socially responsible, so it is more than likely that the Montessori graduate will be
valued highly by his first grade teacher. Read more...
Won’t my child feel left out when the other children in our neighborhood go off to another school?
The attitudes and feelings reflected by the parents will affect those of a child of this age much more than those of neighborhood playmates. In general, if parents are firmly convinced they are offering their child the best choice for their future; in this decision and future choices the child will accept that parent’s judgment. If a parent has doubts or discusses those doubts within earshot of the child, the child will be quick to reflect the mixed feelings.
Won’t it be easier for my child to make the adjustment to public or private school at the kindergarten level rather than at some later date?
In most traditional kindergartens, the primary emphasis is on developing social skills with some preliminary work in cognitive readiness. While some parents have a concern about the initial social interaction, most of the children your child will know as a kindergartener will not travel from grade to grade with them. Each year is a new experience with new children. Having developed more social confidence in their leadership role in the third year of Montessori will help them with this transition.
Why is it so important for my child to experience the kindergarten year at a Montessori school?
In the Montessori environment, the children are presented with endless
opportunities to develop all of their senses and motor skills with the aid of self-
correcting materials in a prepared setting. During the third year a child can not
only work with these materials in more depth, thus gaining more insights from
them, but, using this base, can move into the academic areas.
Next, having learned from older children, shared with peers and helped younger
children, the students now have the opportunity to assume leadership within the
classroom. Read more...
Must my child come 5 days to be considered a kindergarten student?
To be considered a kindergarten student a child must qualify in their school
district with regard to age. If Pennington Montessori is your child’s only school
then they must attend 5 half days or 4 full days. If they attend another school
for kindergarten as well as Pennington Montessori, then they must attend a
minimum of 4 half days. Read more...