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Children enrolled for the extended day can arrive at the school as early as 7:30 AM. Upon arrival are warmly greeted by the teacher and encouraged to hang up their own coats and put away their lunch boxes. With many of the youngest children, help from an adult or older child is often needed. The ultimate goal of all activities in the classroom and school is for the child to learn to accomplish the task independently. Once this is achieved, the child not only experiences the freedom and confidence that comes with self-sufficiency, but now has the ability to help a friend.
Once inside the classroom, the children are free to choose activities that have been specifically designed for their use.
Circle & Snack
The children are invited to circle at the beginning of each school day. During this time the children attend large group lessons, share their news and ideas, problem-solve, and play educational games. Teachers read to and sing with the children.
The children take turns bringing in a snack to share with the class on a monthly basis. Parents are encouraged to send healthy options, including snacks low in salt and sugar.
At the end of circle, the work period begins and the children are free to choose work from the environment.
Morning Work Period
Each classroom is equipped with both classic Montessori materials as well as materials made by the teachers that follow the Montessori curriculum. The materials used in the classroom are designed to stimulate children into logical thought and discovery.
During the work period, teachers present lessons using the materials, and the children, through using the materials, are able to absorb fundamental concepts for language, mathematics, sensory development, cultural studies (science, geography and history), and every day living skills.
Outdoor Environment
After the morning work period, the children often move to the outdoor environment. The play yard is a spacious outdoor area, equipped with tricycles, cubby houses, a sandbox and vegetable and flower gardens. In addition to outdoor play, teachers use the outdoor environment for educational purposes, as the Montessori curriculum emphasizes contact and exploration of the natural world. For example, teachers might give the children a lesson in planting, and later cultivating strawberry plants.
Lunch
The children eat together at tables for lunch. They are encouraged to use plates and cutlery provided by the school as they are able. Children as young as two help themselves to water and drink from an open cup. As each child finishes, he or she is encouraged to dispose of any trash and return the plate to the kitchen sink.
On Fridays, we order in pizza for the children from Star Pizza, which they enjoy with organic fresh fruit salad. And sometimes a popsicle on a hot summer’s day!
Rest Time
Lunch is followed by a quiet time or naptime for those who need it. During this time, the teacher will read stories and the younger children sleep on mats provided by the school.
Afternoon Work Period
The afternoon work period is a time for further exploration and learning. Montessori Children’s House offers children a relaxed and familiar school environment until 5:30 PM.
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