Primary Program

Each Primary classroom is led by a Montessori certified teacher and is comprised of children from 3-6 years of age.   This mixed age grouping is an essential part of the Montessori environment.  Each child benefits from being exposed to children who are younger and older than they are. The younger children have role models to look up to from the very first day of class.  They see the older children working on the more advanced materials, which piques their interest and curiosity. The older children, in turn, benefit from being mentors to the younger ones. One of the best ways to internalize knowledge is to explain it to others, and often an older child will help teach certain concepts to a younger child. The oldest children in the classroom naturally take on a position of leadership, which has been modeled for them by the children before them. This opportunity to lead builds confidence and self-esteem.

The Montessori Primary curriculum is a three-year program, with the third year (kindergarten year) being the culmination of the program.  During this crucial year, children become classroom leaders and develop increased self-esteem.  For all of these reasons, children are encouraged to stay at Montessori for their kindergarten year.