Toddler Program
"The greatest task in the first six years of life is the construction of the self. Self construction, not as I need you to be, but you at your best. " - Maria Montessori
Welcome to the New Leaf Montessori environment. The Montessori Toddler environment is a nurturing social community where very young children experience their first contact with their peers while learning to participate in a cooperative group.
Toddlers are in a mixed age group class ranging from 15 months to 3 years. Here children have the opportunity to explore their environment through their work. This is where basic motor skills, independence, and language development are fostered, and individual personality is respected.
A child cannot become independent unless we support that "secret" process - that is, that which occurs apart from us, the parent. This requires us to "Let Go".
Your child's day begins at 8am with them getting ready for their work. Please make sure that you child arrives on time. Transitions can be difficult for children this age, so we ask that you allow your child enough time so that they do not feel rushed.
Here are some ways to help foster your child's independence and allow them to take ownership of their school experience.
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While holding their hand, allow your child to walk to the door and their classroom.
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Allow your child to carry their lunch box and belongings.
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Please make sure to say good-bye to your child, even if you think it will upset them.
Following these steps will help your child establish a routine and build trust with us and their environment.
Montessori teaches us to honor the sacred task of each single child's developing character and self-awareness.
Primary Program
"Children in the primary program possess what Dr. Montessori called the absorbent mind."
-What is Montessori? AMI/USA
During a child's time in the Primary Program, they have the opportunity to cultivate their education through the following activities:
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Practical Life: These exercises instill care for oneself, others, and the environment. Many of the tasks completed by the child are part of the daily routine in the child's home. These include preparing food, washing dishes, and practicing grace and courtesy.
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Sensorial Materials: Children learn to order and classify impressions through touching, seeing, smelling, tasting, listening, and exploring the physical properties of their environment.
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Language: Oral language opportunities abound in the Montessori environment. Children experience poetry, conversations, and stories. Sandpaper letters help children link sound and symbol to encourage the development of written expression and reading skills.
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Mathematics: This work gives children a solid understanding of basic mathematical principles, This helps prepare the child later for abstract reasoning and problem-solving capabilities.
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Geography, Biology, Botany, Zoology, Art, and Music: These are presented as an extension of the sensorial and language activities. Children learn abut people and cultures in other countries with an attitude of respect and admiration.