The Parent/Infant Community is an introduction to the Montessori method for children and parents. Meeting for two hours a week, the goal of this program is to assist the child’s development through small group interactions. Special materials and furniture are designed to aid children’s movement, coordination, verbal and cognitive development.
The role of the parent in the class is to observe, support, and encourage natural development of the child. Parents receive a journal to record observations on the development of the child throughout the year. Journal entries are usually recorded by each parent during the class and left at school until the next week. Journals are taken home at the end of the school year.
The program includes monthly parent education sessions throughout the school year to learn about child development and Montessori philosophy as well as practical parenting advise. These evenings are casual in format with opportunities for parent interaction and discussion. In addition, special Visiting Days for parents or special friends allow each child to share their classroom experience.
This program is available to children ages 6 – 23 months by September 1 of the year of entry, and is offered on Thursdays from 3:00 – 5:00 pm or Fridays from 8:45 – 10:45 am. Class size is limited to 12 children. Each child is accompanied by one adult.