The Primary classrooms are peaceful, orderly, and beautiful spaces where children are encouraged to grow intellectually, socially, emotionally, and physically. The classrooms are functional microcosms of society, which occur through a balance of freedom and limits. Montessori Guides interact with the children in a positive manner and model respect for oneself, others, and our environment. The Primary classroom environment contains hundreds of authentic didactic Montessori materials. Montessori-trained Guides offer lessons to the children individually through the curriculum at their own pace. Observation, exploration, repeated practice, and concentration with these meaningful materials are what progress the children. From the beginning, the child is an independent learner, taking charge of their own education. While academics are an important goal, Primary classrooms continually promote being stewards of nature, while focusing on the social, emotional, and physical development of the children. Our goal is to help children become independent, lifelong learners, in an authentic Montessori environment.
In any Montessori age set, ages 3-6 through ages 15-18, the three-year cycle is paramount to a successful Montessori experience. The program functions optimally for a child who stays for the entire three-year cycle. The first year is learning the mechanics of the environment; the second year involves much character development and repetition; and the third year is where prior learning experiences crystalize.In the third year, the child is a leader of his peers, experiencing heightened study and community membership.
Montessori Primary environments are functional societies of and for young children. The societies function because of a perfect balance of freedom and limits. For example, a child may work on anything they choose for as long as they want. The limitations to that freedom are that the work must be available (no one else is using it) and that the child has received a presentation from the teacher on the material. The children have a gracious respect for this balance. The Montessori Primary environment contains hundreds of materials made from natural woods, metals and fibers. You will also find art and beautiful objects to spark the child’s interest.
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