Preschool / Kindergarten
A Love for Learning
3 - 6 years
The program begins from age three to six years of age. This three year age span gives the child an opportunity to learn from and with each other. The program is tailored to the developmental needs of each child.
We control the environment not the child. We provide a carefully planned and structured environment. The child is free to use the materials until the skill or concept has been achieved. The child may choose to show the material to another child or move on to a new or higher level of interest. With the freedom to choose the materials, the child is given the opportunity to develop independence, establish confidence, and establish work habits that will lead to a love for learning.
Child Centered (Not Teacher Centered)
Unlike conventional classrooms, where all children are expected to pay close attention to the teacher, our program does the opposite – the teacher is trained to closely observe your child’s interests, tendencies and needs. You won’t see the teacher standing at the front of the classroom at a chalkboard, but rather down at your child’s level, engaged with her or a small group.
Mixed-Age Classroom
Because the curriculum is individualized, your child can work at his or her own pace while participating in a mixed age classroom community. Your younger child learns by observing the behavior and activities of the older children. Your older child gains self-confidence, leadership skills and responsibility by setting an example for her younger friends.
The Gift of Choice
Your child will be introduced to a broad range of concepts and activities in individual and small group lessons. The real learning, however, occurs through independent activity by choosing to explore it, repeat it and perfect it.
“My daughter started at Country Hills when she was 4 years old and has been with Miss Michelle for preschool and will be for Kindergarten as well. She enjoys everything she learns there and looks forward to going every single day! I am at ease with the safety the school provides and the classroom is always spotless. We are so lucky to have found this school. The hours are flexible from start to end of day and I love that they provide nutritious meals for my child as well. The summer camp is awesome and offers a splash pad that is fun for the kids. Ms. Tanya and her staff have made such a positive impact on my child’s life and learning and we couldn’t be happier!”
- Parent / Guardian
Beautiful Hands-on Materials
The scientifically designed Montessori materials help your child learn through hands-on use and exploration. Through continued use, he develops as a concrete understanding of abstract concepts, such as mathematics, providing a solid foundation for learning into the future.
Group Activities and Play
While most of the day is spent in self-directed work, there are also times for group activity and play. The teacher may gather a group for songs or to tell stories about a cultural, scientific or historical theme of interest. Ample time is also given to run, dig, explore and play with friends outdoors.
One Size Does Not Fit All
Instead of a top down curriculum based upon age, the teacher is trained to respect your child’s unique potential and connects him with the lesson best suited at that precise moment of development. Your child will be challenged according to her ability, not to a generic standard.
Kindergarten Included
Montessori is a continuum of education that allows your child to build upon experiences each year. Your child will stay in the Primary classroom for 3 years, including the traditional “kindergarten year” – when the seeds of learning come to fruition. Reading and writing come to life from sounds and symbols. She is introduced to numbers and the decimal system. She learns about geometric figures and the political countries of our world. She leaves the program with a strong set of academic skills; but, far more importantly, with the attitude that learning is fun, exciting and boundless. At this point, she is ready to move up to the Lower Elementary Program, for children from the ages of 6 to 9.