Preschool
The Sunflower and Moonflower Classrooms
Program Overview
Embark on an exciting learning journey with our preschool program, designed for children ages three to six! Our curriculum is packed with a diverse selection of captivating Montessori materials that encourage hands-on exploration and sensory discovery. These thoughtfully developed resources not only help children refine their motor skills but also enable them to understand abstract concepts across various subjects, including practical life, sensorial activities, language arts, mathematics, and cultural studies. Your child will thrive in a rich, interactive environment that fosters curiosity and a passion for learning!
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Areas of Study
Practical Life
The Practical Life area of the Montessori classroom provides children with opportunities to engage in everyday activities that promote independence and self-sufficiency. By participating in tasks such as pouring, sweeping, or preparing snacks, children develop fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and concentration. These activities are not only practical but also instill a sense of responsibility and care for their environment. As children learn to manage simple tasks, they build confidence and a sense of accomplishment, which are essential for their emotional and social development. Moreover, these skills translate to everyday life, equipping children with the tools they need to navigate the world around them with competence and confidence.
Sensorial
In the Montessori classroom for 3-6-year-olds, the Sensorial area is designed to refine children's senses and enhance their ability to perceive the world around them. By engaging with specially crafted materials that isolate specific qualities such as color, texture, shape, and sound, children develop their observational skills and sensory discrimination. For instance, through activities like matching colors or sorting by texture, children learn to identify subtle differences, fostering critical thinking and attention to detail. This sensory exploration not only cultivates a deeper appreciation for their environment but also lays the groundwork for future learning in subjects like science and mathematics, where observation and categorization are key.
Mathematics
In the Montessori classroom, the Mathematics area is thoughtfully designed to make abstract concepts tangible and accessible for young learners. Through the use of hands-on materials such as counting beads, number rods, and geometric shapes, children engage in concrete experiences that help them grasp foundational mathematical concepts. This approach allows them to explore numbers, operations, and patterns in a playful and interactive way. As they manipulate these materials, children develop not only mathematical skills but also critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. By fostering a positive attitude toward mathematics from an early age, the Montessori method helps to demystify the subject, encouraging a sense of confidence and curiosity that will serve children well as they progress in their education.
Language
The Language area in a Montessori classroom is designed to cultivate a love for reading and writing from an early age. Through a rich array of materials, including phonetic objects, movable alphabets, and storytelling activities, children are encouraged to explore language in a multi-sensory way. This hands-on approach allows them to connect sounds with letters and build words, fostering early literacy skills while nurturing their natural curiosity about language. Additionally, group reading sessions and storytelling encourage social interaction and language development, enriching vocabulary and comprehension. By creating a print-rich environment and providing opportunities for self-expression, the Language area empowers children to communicate their thoughts and ideas, laying the groundwork for lifelong learning and effective communication.
Cultural Studies
Cultural Studies in the Montessori classroom provides a holistic approach to understanding the interconnectedness of Geography, Botany, Zoology, Science, History, Music, and Art. Through hands-on materials and experiential learning, children explore the diverse cultures and natural environments of the world. In geography, they learn about different countries and landscapes, while botany and zoology engage them in the study of plants and animals that inhabit various ecosystems. The integration of science encourages inquiry into natural phenomena, and history allows children to connect past events with present cultures. Music and art further enrich their experience by introducing them to traditional songs, instruments, and artistic expressions from around the globe. This comprehensive exploration fosters respect, empathy, and a deep appreciation for the rich tapestry of human experience and the natural world, laying the foundation for responsible global citizenship.
Free Montessori Preschool
We are pleased to announce that Cardan Montessori Center is now offering FREE Montessori Preschool programs through the Ohio Department of Education!* Availability is limited, so we encourage you to call us to schedule a tour at your earliest convenience.
*This program is available for income-eligible families