Montessori Wonderland School provides the environment that nurtures children academically, socially, and emotionally through the formative years of development.
The "prepared environment" is Maria Montessori's concept that the environment can be designed to facilitate maximum independent learning and exploration by the child.
The Montessori teacher models grace, courtesy, and a natural wonder about the world, acts as a guide to children, moves slowly and purposefully about the classroom. The teacher creates the learning environment that supports children's development and aids in their personal independence, as well as observes children without judgment, recognizes their needs, and assists them in finding their strengths and capabilities.
Specifically designed Montessori materials are sensory-based learning tools that are designed to provide children with opportunities to discover learning through independent learning, repetition, and practice. The materials range from simple to complex and from concrete to abstract, catering to every child's age and ability.
Dr. Montessori recognized the benefits of the mixed-age classroom and applied this information to her method. She observed that younger children learn by watching older children, as well as adults, and the older children who are completing challenging lessons, are an example to the younger ones. Older children are viewed as role models that teach by example and it is not uncommon to see a five or six-year-old sitting with a three-year-old and giving them a lesson!
Our emphasis during the toddler stage is building the child's independence and fostering the natural curiosity that toddlers possess which creates a long lasting love of learning. The activities in this environment lead the child to build order, coordination, independence, sensory motor skills, socialization skills, self-esteem, inner security, and habits of concentration.
Our emphasis during the primary age is on the process of discovery and exploration of the world through multi-sensory materials. In addition, by making independent choices, the child develops self-motivation, self-regulation, and problem-solving skills. Learning moves from the concrete to the abstract through manipulating, experimenting, and discovering.
During the kindergarten year we prepare children for school success by focusing on math and language skills. Children act as role models and classroom leaders. They leave the program with a strong set of academic skills; but, far more importantly, with the attitude that learning is fun, exciting and boundless.
My Montessori journey began almost 12 years ago when I stepped into a Montessori classroom as a volunteer teacher assistant. I was fascinated by the endless possibilities provided to children to promote their independence and self-confidence. As a result, I was inspired to pursue the American Montessori Society certification and a Master's Degree in Montessori Education.
After years of experience teaching elementary-aged children at a local Montessori school, I made the decision to start the home-based Montessori Wonderland School.
As a mother of a toddler and a kindergartener, I believe that children have a natural curiosity and desire greater opportunities for the purposeful work and responsibilities which we provide at Montessori Wonderland. I look forward to meeting your family and sharing the gift of authentic Montessori education with your child.
A WORD
From Our Teacher & Founder
– Anna Harea
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A Quick Tour of Our Montessori Classroom
OUR ADMISSION PROCESS
We're delighted by your interest in Montessori Wonderland School! We look forward to introducing you to our school and getting to know you and your child during the application process.
Practical life in Montessori is purposeful daily living activities that develop motor control and coordination, as well as independence, concentration, and a sense of responsibility.
Sensorial activities are used in Montessori learning to help children develop classificaions, discrimination and order skills. In addition, these materials help broaden and refine a child's senses.
Montessori Math materials help children approach math with hands-on, visual, and physical learning aids. They also allow students to attach concrete knowledge to the often abstract concepts in math.
Montessori Language materials are designed primarily to teach children the complexity of written and spoken language. By using them, students explore letters, sounds, handwriting, and eventually spelling and writing.