At the primary level, classroom are divided into mixed-age groups of children between the ages of 3 and 6 years of age. Each class is balanced in number of students, ages and gender. This mixed-age grouping fosters opportunities for collaborative work, social engagement and for older children to learn to help the younger children.
Each 3 – 6 classroom has a selection of activities of daily life that aid in the development of coordination, concentration, order and independence. There are manipulative materials that engage the child in the study and exploration of numbers, counting, mathematical operations, phonetics, spelling, writing, pre-reading and reading skills. The cultural subjects of geography, history, science, art and music are all offered to the children through the Montessori materials as well as through their own explorations and creative expression. Children learn Spanish vocabulary and phrases through the study of different Latin cultures, foods, games and songs.
Developmental gym is offered to this level as part of the daily activity. Children choose to go to gym at their will to participate in a circuit of activities specifically designed to promote a strong core and keen physical coordination.
Opportunities for parents to learn about Montessori philosophy and curriculum and your child’s progress abound:
- Before the school year begins each class holds a gathering for parents to get to know each other and the teacher distributes important information.
- In the late fall Harvest Breakfasts allow children a chance to host their parents.
- Formal and informal parent teacher conferences. Parent education evenings to familiarize parents with the curriculum and how it can be supported at home.
- Guest speakers visit to lend outside expertise and focus on topics of specific interest.
Children in the primary classes may attend for either a one-half day (8:25 – 11:40 am) or three-quarter day (8:25 am – 3:15 pm) program. Children ages 3 and 4 are required to nap if attending the three-quarter day program. Children ages 5 and 6, or in their third year in the class, do not nap and take part in further classroom activities, library visits and yoga during the afternoon. All three-quarter day students enjoy 30 minutes of recess and eat lunch in their classroom.