Facts And Questions
What are the benefits of a multi-age classroom setting?
Older children often mentor younger ones, fostering a collaborative learning environment. Younger children learn by observing and imitating their peers. Interacting with peers of different ages helps children develop strong social skills. They learn to communicate, and resolve conflicts with individuals of various ages, mirroring real-world social dynamics. The diverse age range can reduce the intensity of peer pressure, as children interact with individuals at different developmental stages, lessening the focus on age-related expectations.
What is your staff to child ratio?
The standard preschool staff-to-child ratio is 1 teacher for every 12 children, in accordance with Alberta child care regulations. As a newly opened school, we are starting small to ensure the highest quality experience for our students. Initially, our ratio will be 1 teacher for every 6 children, with a maximum of 6 children in the morning class and 6 children in the afternoon class. As our school community grows, we will welcome a second teacher and increase our capacity to 1:12, accommodating up to 24 children per session while maintaining the same high standards of care and education.
Are there specific qualifications for Montessori educators?
Yes, completion of a Montessori educator training program accredited by International Montessori Society (IMS), Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) , or American Montessori Society (AMS).
Are there benefits to a half day program?
Half day Montessori programs can be beneficial in many ways. They can be more cost-effective for parents; and may be more developmentally appropriate for young children, as they provide a shorter, more manageable period of structured learning and socialization.
Why does my child need to be potty trained to attend a Montessori school?
In Montessori classrooms, children are generally expected to have mastered potty training, as it fosters an environment conducive to independent and self-directed learning. When children can handle their own basic needs, like using the washroom, they can participate fully in Montessori materials and activities without frequent disruptions. This encourages a sense of responsibility and autonomy, in harmony with Montessori’s principles of nurturing independence and self-discipline in young learners.
How does Montessori preschool differ from play-based preschools?
Montessori is child-centred, allowing students to choose their activities and progress at their own pace. Montessori classrooms have mixed-age groups, encouraging peer learning and collaboration which in turn promotes a sense of community. Montessori emphasizes hands-on, sensory based learning using specifically designed materials, where-as regular preschools are toy play-based. Montessori also provides children with freedom to explore within a structured environment. It caters to individual styles and interests, adapting to each child’s needs. Montessori educators act as guides, observing and facilitating.
Is Montessori religious based?
No, it is non-sectarian. Montessori education does not follow or provide any religious instruction.
Is Montessori suitable for all children?
Montessori education is designed to be adaptable and inclusive for all children.
What is the role of parents in Montessori education?
Parents play a crucial role in Montessori education, and collaboration between parents and educators is often emphasized. Parents are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the Montessori philosophy to better understand the principles guiding their child’s education. Parents implementing Montessori principles at home, such as fostering independence and providing age-appropriate activities, supports the continuity of learning between school and home. Parents encouraging and nurturing a love for learning, by exposing children to diverse experiences, books, and activities outside of school, reinforces the importance of education in a child’s life.
How are discipline and behaviour managed in Montessori classrooms?
The Montessori classroom is carefully prepared to promote order and minimize disruptions. Children are given freedom within limits, encouraging them to make choices and take responsibility for their actions. This autonomy contributes to the development of self-discipline. Montessori classrooms incorporate “grace and courtesy” lessons within the Practical Life area (shaking hands, waiting turns, thanking friends, helping a friend, cleaning up after yourself etc.), to encourage a harmonious and respectful environment. Educators guide children, through conflict-resolution skills, as well as communication and problem-solving techniques. Montessori educators observe each child closely, identifying individual needs and providing guidance when necessary.
Why is the meaning of “follow the child” in the Montessori method?
The Montessori method emphasis the idea of “follow the child”, which means educators observe each child’s interests, needs, and developmental stage, then tailor the learning environment and materials to support their individual growth and learning pace. This approach promotes autonomy, self-motivation, and a love for learning, as children are encouraged to explore and discover based on their own interests and abilities.
Why are Montessori educators call ‘Guides’ or ‘Directresses’ rather than ‘Teachers’?
Montessori educators are called “guides” or “directresses/ors” to reflect their role as facilitators of child-led learning. They create a prepared environment, encourage independence, and support individualized learning rather than directly instructing. This emphasizes the child’s role in directing their own education, with the educator offering guidance rather than traditional teaching. Montessori directresses/ors demonstrate the use of materials through precise, hands-on presentations. They model the correct way to handle and interact with the materials, showing clear, simple steps without excessive talking. After the demonstration, children are encouraged to explore and practice on their own, promoting independent learning through repetition and discovery.
I’ve heard the term “normalization” used in Montessori, what does it mean?
In a Montessori environment, normalization refers to a state where children develop self-discipline, concentration, independence, and a love for learning through engaging with purposeful activities. It is a term coined by Maria Montessori to describe the process by which children become more focused, calm, and productive in their work within the prepared environment of the Montessori classroom. There is no set time limit on the normalization of a child, as each child is unique, but often the process can take from one to two months.
Do you offer a summer program?
This is under consideration. If any programs are offered during the summer months you will find this information on the main page of our website.
Do you offer a full-day program?
It is under consideration to offer a full-day Montessori program.
Do you accept applications during the school year?
Yes, if a spot is available we can register children throughout the school year.
Can I visit the school?
Yes! We welcome anyone who is interested, to book an appointment to visit our facility, and take a tour!
What does the blue flower on your logo represent?
The blue flower you see on our logo and all of our branding is the Blue Flax (Linum lewisii). It is a native wildflower of Alberta that graces our landscape with it’s delicate blue flowers. The plant is appreciated for its ability to thrive in diverse environments. Children, like the blue flax embody a natural beauty and resilience. They blossom uniquely, each with their own vibrant qualities, and similar to the adaptability of the blue flax, children show resilience in diverse environments, growing and flourishing in their individual ways.