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Unlocking the Montessori Experience: A Comprehensive Onboarding Journey

Embarking on a new journey in the realm of Montessori education can be both exciting and challenging. For teachers joining our team, the corporate office onboarding serves as a crucial initiation into the world of Montessori philosophy and practices. Many educators may enter without prior Montessori experience, making this introduction an invaluable foundation for their future classrooms.

Cultivating a Montessori Culture: The Core Purpose of Onboarding

The primary goal of our onboarding program is to immerse teachers in the unique ethos of Montessori education. Beyond a set of teaching methods, Montessori is a holistic approach that values each child’s individuality, fosters independence, and encourages a love for learning. By bringing teachers into the corporate office for training, we provide them with an opportunity to not only understand the principles but also to become acquainted with our organizational culture.Montessori program makes happy kids

Hands-On Learning: Montessori Materials and Techniques

During the onboarding process, teachers experience firsthand training with Montessori materials. These materials, carefully designed to engage children in self-directed learning, become the tools that teachers use to guide their students. This interactive experience allows educators to familiarize themselves with the materials they’ll be utilizing in their classrooms, ensuring a seamless transition from training to teaching.

Comprehensive Training: Beyond Montessori Principles

Our onboarding day is more than just an introduction to Montessori. It serves as a platform for teachers to undergo essential training sessions that are crucial for their roles. This includes mandated reporter training, pesticide training, and anti-harassment training. These sessions not only comply with legal requirements but also equip teachers with the knowledge and skills to ensure a safe and supportive learning environment.

Building State Files: Onboarding Requirements for Schools

A significant aspect of the onboarding day is the completion of requirements that contribute to the teachers‘ state files. These files, a prerequisite at our schools, encompass all necessary documentation and certifications, streamlining the administrative process and ensuring that teachers are ready to step into their classrooms with confidence.

Montessori Overview: Understanding the Foundations

To ensure a strong foundation in Montessori principles, the onboarding includes an overview covering the following key areas:

  1. What is Montessori?: A deep dive into the philosophy and principles that underpin Montessori education.
  2. Classroom Management: Strategies for creating an environment that promotes independent learning and cooperation.
  3. Behavior Management: Techniques for guiding children toward positive behaviors, fostering a harmonious classroom atmosphere.

Navigating the Learn And Play Systems: Paylocity and Employee Handbook Training

In addition to Montessori principles, our onboarding extends to the practical aspects of our organization. Teachers receive training on the systems we have in place for Learn And Play, including:

  1. Paylocity: An overview of our payroll and HR system, ensuring teachers are familiar with the tools they’ll be using.
  2. Employee Handbook: A comprehensive guide to our policies, procedures, and expectations, creating a cohesive understanding among our teaching staff.

In conclusion, our onboarding day is a pivotal step in the journey of our educators. By integrating Montessori principles with practical training and administrative requirements, we strive to equip our teachers with the knowledge, skills, and cultural awareness necessary for success in their classrooms and within our organization. Together, we nurture a community dedicated to providing the best possible educational experience for our students.

Empowering Families: Learn And Play® Embraces Child Care Subsidies for Accessible Montessori Education

At Learn And Play®, we believe that every child deserves access to quality education and care. We understand that financial considerations can be a significant factor for many families when making decisions about their child’s education. To ensure that our Montessori education remains accessible to all, we are excited to announce that we now accept childcare subsidies to support families in need. In this blog post, we’ll explore the importance of accessible education, highlight our commitment to inclusivity, and provide information on various childcare subsidy programs.

We recognize that providing quality education goes beyond the classroom. We understand that families may face financial challenges, and we are committed to breaking down barriers to ensure that every child has the opportunity to thrive in a nurturing learning environment.

To support our commitment to accessibility, we have compiled a list of childcare financial aid subsidy options that parents can explore. These programs are specifically designed to help eligible families cover the costs of childcare while also offering financial support to those seeking quality early childhood education.

It’s important to note that the eligibility for childcare subsidy is contingent upon the family’s place of residence. Each program may have specific criteria that families must meet to qualify for assistance. We encourage you to explore these programs thoroughly and reach out to the respective links provided for detailed information.

Our commitment to accessible education is unwavering. We believe that by embracing childcare subsidies, we take a step further in making our educational community inclusive and supportive for all families. If you have any questions or need assistance in exploring childcare subsidy options, our team is here to help. Together, let’s create a learning environment where every child can flourish, regardless of financial barriers.

Nutrient-Rich Lunch Program in Partnership with My Green Lunch

At Learn And Play® Montessori, we understand the importance of providing a holistic education that encompasses not only academic growth but also promotes a healthy and nourishing environment for our students. That’s why we are excited to introduce our Lunch Program at both the South Fremont and Irvington campuses, designed to cater to the nutritional needs of our young learners while offering the convenience that busy parents desire.

Partnering with My Green Lunch:

In our commitment to fostering healthy eating habits, we have teamed up with My Green Lunch, a reputable company dedicated to providing allergy-friendly, nut-free, antibiotic-free, and humanely raised meats. My Green Lunch shares our vision for promoting a well-rounded, sustainable, and culturally diverse approach to food, aligning perfectly with the Montessori principles we hold dear.

The Learn And Play® Montessori Lunch Program offers parents the option to have a nutritious and delicious hot lunch ready for their child at school, eliminating the need for them to prepare meals at home. The program not only prioritizes convenience but also places a strong emphasis on the quality and source of the food provided.

To make this program accessible to our families, we are offering an introductory price of $95. This allows parents to experience the benefits of the Lunch Program at a reduced cost. After the introductory period, the regular price for this service will be $135. This pricing structure ensures that the program remains sustainable while offering a valuable service to our community.

My Green Lunch stands out for its commitment to providing fresh, educational, and sustainable meals. The company’s dedication to offering a variety of culturally diverse options aligns seamlessly with the Montessori philosophy, enhancing the overall learning experience for our students. Additionally, the emphasis on antibiotic-free and humanely raised meats reflects our shared values of promoting not only personal health but also the well-being of our planet.

Beyond the nutritional benefits, the Learn And Play® Montessori Lunch Program contributes to the educational journey of our students. By exposing them to diverse and culturally rich foods, we aim to broaden their palates and cultivate an appreciation for global cuisine. This aligns with the Montessori principle of educating the whole child, fostering a well-rounded understanding of the world.

Learn And Play® Montessori’s Lunch Program, in partnership with My Green Lunch, is a testament to our dedication to providing a comprehensive and enriching educational experience. By prioritizing healthy eating, convenience, and cultural awareness, we aim to nurture not only the minds but also the bodies of our students. Join us on this culinary journey, where every meal is a step toward a brighter, healthier future for our Learn And Play® Montessori community.

Unveiling a Nutritious Affair: Introducing Our New Lunch Program at Irvington Campus

We are thrilled to announce a delicious addition to the Irvington Campus experience – our brand-new lunch program! As part of our ongoing commitment to the well-being of our students and families, we have partnered with My Green Lunch to offer a nutritious and affordable dining option. Read on to discover the details of this exciting initiative.

lunch program at preschool in Fremont, California

Affordability and Subsidized Fees: At the heart of our new lunch program is a commitment to making healthy meals accessible to all families. The monthly fee for this lunch program is just $95. We understand the importance of keeping costs reasonable, and as a result, the school is subsidizing a portion of the fee to ensure affordability for everyone.

What’s Included: For the monthly fee, students will enjoy a well-balanced lunch that includes a main course, a variety of fresh vegetables, and seasonal fruits. Our goal is to provide not only a tasty meal but also one that contributes to the overall health and development of our students.

Partnering with My Green Lunch: We are proud to partner with My Green Lunch, a renowned provider committed to delivering high-quality, nutritious meals. Their dedication to sourcing fresh, locally-produced ingredients aligns seamlessly with our commitment to providing the best for our students. Together, we aim to make lunchtime an enriching and enjoyable experience for all.

How to Sign Up: Getting started with our lunch program is simple. Parents can sign up by contacting the campus front desk directly or by reaching out to us at (510) 916-1600. Additionally, inquiries and sign-ups can be facilitated through email at [email protected]. We encourage all interested families to take advantage of this exciting opportunity to enhance their child’s daily dining experience.

Benefits of the Program:

  1. Nutritional Value: Our lunch program focuses on providing a well-balanced meal to fuel students throughout the day.
  2. Convenience: Save time and effort by opting for our convenient lunch program, eliminating the need for daily meal preparation.
  3. Affordability: With a subsidized monthly fee, we aim to make quality meals accessible to families of all backgrounds.

We are enthusiastic about the positive impact our new lunch program will have on the Irvington Campus community. By partnering with My Green Lunch and subsidizing the costs, we strive to create a win-win situation that promotes health, convenience, and affordability for our families. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to elevate your child’s lunchtime experience – sign up today!

Discovering Excellence: Learn And Play® Montessori School’s Irvington Campus Unveiled

Welcome to the heart of learning and exploration at Learn And Play® Montessori School’s Irvington Campus! Nestled along the vibrant Fremont Boulevard in Irvington, Fremont, this educational haven has been a beacon of excellence for young minds, and it’s only getting better with time.

Expanding Horizons: Welcoming 18-Month to 2-Year-Olds

In a significant stride forward, our Irvington Campus proudly opened its doors to younger learners earlier this year in March. Now, children aged 18 months to 2 years can embark on their educational journey in a nurturing environment designed to stimulate curiosity and foster early development. Thus, those looking for daycare or childcare in Irvington and central Fremont have a fantastic option!

Previously catering to children aged 2 to 6 years, the expansion marks a commitment to providing a comprehensive Montessori experience right from the very start of a child’s developmental journey. Our seasoned educators are dedicated to cultivating a love for learning and instilling essential life skills in these impressionable minds.

Daycare in Irvington (Fremont) California; a teach touching her toes and the toddlers looking on with attention.

Revitalizing Spaces: A Glimpse into Our Renovated Campus

The Learn And Play® Montessori School’s Irvington Campus recently underwent a transformative makeover, setting the stage for an enriched educational environment. The campus now boasts freshly laid floors, inviting carpets, and carefully curated materials, creating an atmosphere that is not only conducive to learning but also visually inspiring.

Step into our classrooms, and you’ll find thoughtfully arranged Montessori materials that encourage hands-on exploration. Our learning spaces are designed to stimulate creativity, critical thinking, and a sense of wonder. The recent renovations have enhanced the aesthetics of the campus, ensuring that every corner reflects our commitment to providing a top-notch learning environment.

Dedicated Educators: Nurturing Young Minds with Passion

Behind every successful educational institution are passionate and dedicated educators. At Learn And Play® Montessori School’s Irvington Campus, our teachers are not just instructors; they are mentors, guides, and partners in your child’s educational journey. Their commitment to personalized learning ensures that each child receives the attention they need to thrive.

Community Engagement: Building Strong Foundations Together

Our school is more than just a place of learning; it’s a community where families come together to support the growth and development of their children. Regular events, parent-teacher interactions, and collaborative initiatives enrich the overall experience, fostering a sense of belonging among our extended Montessori family.

Enroll Today: Join the Learn And Play® Montessori School Family

As we celebrate the first year of our expanded and renovated Irvington Campus, we invite families seeking a nurturing, stimulating, and engaging early learning experience to join us. Enrollment is open, and we look forward to welcoming your child into our Learn And Play® Montessori School family.

Embark on the journey of discovery, curiosity, and growth at Learn And Play® Montessori School’s Irvington Campus – where every day is an opportunity to learn, play, and flourish.

Preparing Your Child for Montessori: A Parent’s Guide

The decision to send your child to a Montessori school is important, and the transition from being at home to attending a Montessori school is a significant milestone for both you and your child. Our Montessori school programs run currently in Fremont, Danville, Dublin, and Milpitas. The Montessori method of education is known for its unique approach to fostering independence, creativity, and a love of learning in children. To help ease this transition, we’ll explore some valuable tips for parents and what to expect during the first few weeks of Montessori school.

Prepare Your Child Emotionally. Emotional readiness is crucial for a smooth transition. Start by discussing the upcoming change with your child. Explain why they’ll be going to school and the exciting experiences they will have. Encourage their curiosity and enthusiasm, reassuring them that school is a fun place to learn and make new friends.

Brochure supporting a Montessori school in Fremont, California.

Familiarize Your Child with Montessori Principles. Montessori schools have a unique philosophy focusing on child-centered learning, freedom within limits, and mixed-age classrooms. Introducing your child to these principles before their first day is a good idea. You can read books or watch videos about Maria Montessori’s ideas, which will help your child understand the learning environment.

Tour the School Together. Before the first day of school, arrange a tour of the Montessori classroom with your child. This will help them become comfortable with the physical environment, the materials, and the teachers. You can also introduce your child to some of the other students to make them feel welcome.

Click here to Schedule a Tour of any of our Learn And Play Montessori Schools

Establish Routines. Montessori schools emphasize independence, and it’s helpful for children to have a structured routine at home. Encourage your child to dress themselves, tidy up after activities, and take care of their personal belongings. These skills will make the transition to the Montessori classroom smoother.

Encourage Grace and Courtesy: Beyond academic development, Montessori education places a strong emphasis on cultivating grace and courtesy. Introduce your child to the values of respect, kindness, and consideration for others. Emphasize the importance of polite interactions and the joy that comes from being part of a supportive and respectful community. By instilling these social skills early on, your child will seamlessly integrate into the Montessori environment, fostering positive relationships with peers and teachers alike. Incorporating grace and courtesy into their daily routines at home will further nurture these essential qualities, contributing to a well-rounded and emotionally intelligent educational experience.

Build Confidence. In the Montessori environment, children are encouraged to make choices and decisions. Help your child build their confidence by letting them make age-appropriate choices at home, such as selecting their clothing or deciding what snacks to eat. This will prepare them for the independence they’ll experience at school.

Transitioning from home to a Montessori school can be an exciting journey for both parents and children. By preparing your child emotionally, introducing them to Montessori principles, and building their confidence and independence, you can help them adapt to this enriching learning environment. During the first few weeks, embrace the unique aspects of Montessori education, including mixed-age classrooms and individualized learning, and maintain open communication with your child’s teachers. With patience and support, your child is on their way to a fulfilling and transformative Montessori experience.

Montessori + STEM Experiments & How to Enhance Learning at Home

Montessori education and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) are powerful tools for nurturing children’s curiosity, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities. When these two educational philosophies intersect, children experience a dynamic learning environment that ignites their passion for discovery. In this blog, we’ll explore the benefits of Montessori + STEM education and provide a collection of exciting at-home STEM activities to complement your child’s school experience. To learn more about our STEM curriculum, you can take a tour of any of our schools.

At-Home STEM Activities to Enhance the Montessori + STEM Experience

  1. Weather Watchers: Create a weather journal to record daily observations. Discuss temperature, humidity, and precipitation. Over time, your child will notice patterns and gain a deeper understanding of weather.
  2. Seed Growth Experiment: Plant seeds in different conditions – some with lots of water, some with minimal water, and some in different soil types. Observe and discuss how each condition affects seed growth.
  3. Simple Machines at Home: Explore simple machines using household objects. For example, construct a pulley system using a rope, a chair, and a bucket to learn about mechanical advantage.
  4. Nature Scavenger Hunt: Organize a nature scavenger hunt, encouraging your child to observe and collect different items from the natural world. Discuss the characteristics and functions of these objects.
  5. Invent with Recyclables: Provide your child with a collection of recyclable materials, and challenge them to invent a useful or creative item. Discuss the engineering principles involved.

Enhancing Montessori + STEM at HomeMontessori plus STEM (Science Technology Engineering and Math)

  • Encourage your child’s questions and curiosity. Emphasize that it’s okay not to have all the answers – part of the STEM process is exploring the unknown.
  • Create a dedicated STEM workspace at home. This can be a corner of a room or a table stocked with supplies for experiments and projects.
  • Keep a science journal. Encourage your child to record their observations, hypotheses, and the results of their experiments.
  • Foster critical thinking by discussing everyday STEM-related challenges and problem-solving together.

Montessori + STEM at home creates an environment that extends your child’s learning beyond the classroom, fueling their passion for exploration, discovery, and problem-solving. These experiences help children build a strong foundation in STEM and develop skills that will serve them well throughout their lives.

 

Montessori Thanksgiving: Cultivating Gratitude and Togetherness

Thanksgiving is a time for families to come together, reflect on their blessings, and create meaningful memories. At our Montessori school, we believe in fostering gratitude, independence, and togetherness among our young learners. In this blog, we’ll explore Montessori-inspired activities and ways in which parents can make Thanksgiving a meaningful and educational experience for their children.Celebrating Thankgiving in a Montessori preschool in Fremont, CA.

  1. DIY Thanksgiving Decorations. In the Montessori classroom, children learn the value of practical life activities. This Thanksgiving, engage your child in making DIY decorations. They can create paper turkeys, leaf garlands, or placemats. This not only hones their fine motor skills but also instills a sense of accomplishment.
  2. Cooking Together. Thanksgiving offers an ideal opportunity for parents and children to cook together. Invite your child to help with age-appropriate tasks, like washing vegetables, peeling potatoes, or mixing ingredients. Cooking fosters independence, practical life skills, and a love for food and nutrition.
  3. Nature Walks. In Montessori education, nature plays a crucial role in learning. Consider taking a nature walk as a family in the weeks leading up to Thanksgiving. Collect leaves, pinecones, or acorns to incorporate into your decorations or crafts, all while fostering a deep connection to the natural world.
  4. Setting the Table. Teach your child how to set the Thanksgiving table with precision. This practical life skill includes arranging utensils, napkins, and dishes in an organized and beautiful manner. It instills a sense of responsibility and order.
  5. Montessori Grace and Courtesy. In Montessori, children are taught the importance of grace and courtesy. Use Thanksgiving as an opportunity to teach your child about being polite and expressing gratitude. Encourage them to say “please” and “thank you” and to express their thanks for the meal.

Thanksgiving in a Montessori spirit is all about fostering gratitude, independence, and togetherness. By engaging your child in these Montessori-inspired activities, you can create a Thanksgiving experience that aligns with the principles of Montessori education, all while building precious family memories and instilling values that will last a lifetime. Happy Thanksgiving!

Why Montessori Transitional Kindergarten Outshines Public Transitional Kindergarten in California

The decision of where to send your child for their transitional kindergarten (TK) year is a significant one. Transitional kindergarten serves as a bridge between preschool and kindergarten, and choosing the right environment can set the stage for a lifetime of learning. While public schools have long been the traditional choice, Montessori Transitional Kindergarten offers a unique and transformative educational experience that often outshines the offerings of public schools. In this article, we will explore the reasons why Montessori TK stands out as an exceptional choice for early education.transitional kindergarten in Fremont, California

  1. Child-Centered Learning: Montessori education is renowned for its child-centered approach. In Montessori TK classrooms, children are active participants in their learning journey. The curriculum is tailored to each child’s unique needs and interests, promoting a love of learning that goes beyond rote memorization. In public school TK programs, curriculum is often more standardized, making it challenging to meet the diverse needs of every child.
  2. Hands-On, Experiential Learning: Montessori TK classrooms are filled with hands-on materials that engage children in meaningful learning experiences. These materials are designed to foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity. In public school TK programs, there may be more emphasis on worksheets and structured activities, which may not offer the same level of experiential learning.
  3. Child-Led Independence: Montessori education places a strong emphasis on nurturing independence in children from a young age. In a Montessori TK program, children are encouraged to make choices, engage in activities that interest them, and take responsibility for their learning environment. In contrast, public TK programs often have a more structured and teacher-directed approach, which may not provide the same level of autonomy for the child.
  4. Holistic Development: Montessori education focuses on the development of the whole child, encompassing not just academics but also emotional, social, and physical growth. Lessons are integrated into real-life experiences, and activities often extend beyond traditional academic subjects. In public TK programs, the focus may be more narrowly on academic readiness, sometimes overlooking the importance of holistic development.
  5. Open Communication with Parents: Montessori educators value strong partnerships with parents. Expect open communication, including regular meetings and updates on your child’s progress. While public schools also communicate with parents, the larger class sizes can sometimes limit the level of personalized attention that Montessori schools offer.

When it comes to providing your child with the best possible start to their educational journey, Montessori Transitional Kindergarten stands out as an exceptional choice. With its child-centered approach, hands-on learning, emphasis on independence, holistic development, and strong parent-teacher communication, Montessori TK offers a transformative educational experience that can set the stage for a lifelong love of learning and personal growth. While public schools have their merits, Montessori TK programs are specially designed to provide a strong foundation for a bright and promising future.

Contact us today to learn about how Montessori can help your child succeed!

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Contact us today to learn about how Montessori can help your child succeed!
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