 |
Montessori Program |
 |
 |
 |
 |
OUR MONTESSORI PROGRAM IS DESIGNED TO ASSIST YOUNG CHILDREN DEVELOP THE FULLNESS OF THEIR INDIVIDUAL POTENTIAL IN A WARM AND NURTURING ENVIRONMENT.
Children will utilize the Montessori equipment and curriculum to develop important life skills. This program encourages children to explore their world through learning, to express themselves, think independently and play cooperatively.
The Montessori approach to education embraces individualized instruction for children, mixed age groupings of students, a structured curriculum and a prepared environment using specialized Montessori teaching materials. Montessori classrooms provide an environment that supports independent, self-directed learning and self-assessment. Dr. Maria Montessori believed strongly that parents play a critical role in their child’s education. The parents are the child’s first and most influential teacher. That is why Minnieland Montessori programs encourage parents to be involved in school activities.
MONTESSORI PROGRAM FEATURES:
Sensory Education: Learning through the senses i.e. sort, match and compare objects by shape, touch, taste & sound.
Mathematics: In essence, understanding and expressing them in mathematical terms. Items used, like number rods, golden beads and spindle boxes.
Cultural Studies: Clever use of globes, puzzle maps and flags to understand other cultures, people and countries. Elements of the Natural World are also taught through pictures and name
cards.
Creative Arts: Music, arts & craft, storytelling, movements and drama activities is an integral part of the Montessori Classroom. Musical instruments, music styles and art media is part of the creative process.
Literacy Skills: Language materials like sandpaper letters for tracing and feeling their way through their fingers while told the sounds.
Practical Life: To develop life skills which will allow them greater freedom in the classroom and beyond. Children are taught special skills to be independent, capable and self-reliant.
DAY IN THE LIFE OF MONTESSORI AT MINNIELAND ACADEMY
|
Arrival Time: Children and their families are warmly welcomed by the teacher who will help the child transition from their parent to school. Breakfast and Interactive Play Time: Family style dining where children practice social graces followed by school activities. Circle Time/Intro to Lesson Time: The lesson is introduced and demonstrated. The children have the opportunity to discuss their plans for the day and what they hope to accomplish. Each child then selects an area to start off “working” in the prepared environment. School Time and Montessori Work Time: The child selects an exciting activity from one of the following areas: Sensorial, Practical Life, Geography/ Cultural Studies, Science, Mathematics, Writing/Letter Awareness, Art school. Outside Time: Children engage in gross motor activities, organized games, exploration in the garden, etc. Story Stretcher Time: “Read me a story and I’ll tell you one, too”, rings out loud and clear as our preschoolers gather together to experience a selection of children’s literature utilizing all five senses. Lunch Time: Family style dining where children practice social graces. Rest Time: Children have the opportunity to rest or take a nap. Snack Time: Snack is provided at this time. Mathematics Time: Minnieland has brought together a variety of familiar materials gathered from a child’s world, which, because they are real, engage a child’s senses. The children have fun learning with shapes, blocks, cubes, buttons, tiles and jewels. Outside Time: Children are offered a time of play in our large, colorful, age appropriate playgrounds. School Time Exploration Time: The child selects an exciting activity from one of the following areas: Sensorial, Practical Life, Geography/ Cultural Studies, Science, Mathematics, Writing/Letter Awareness, Art school. Departure Time/Quiet Activities Time: Staff is available to greet parents and assist in transitioning the child from school activities.
|
