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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.

Nurturing Little Leaders: the Montessori Method and Kindergarten

When we think of leadership skills, we often associate them with adults in professional settings. However, the foundation for leadership can be cultivated at a much younger age, even in kindergarten. The Montessori Method, known for its child-centered and holistic approach to education, excels in instilling leadership skills in young children. In this blog post, we’ll explore how the Montessori Method empowers kindergarteners to become confident and capable leaders.

Children learning using the Montessori method.Promoting Independence and Responsibility: Montessori classrooms are carefully designed to encourage independence. In a Montessori environment, kindergarteners have the freedom to choose their activities and work at their own pace. This autonomy fosters a sense of responsibility as children learn to manage their time and resources. They become accountable for their actions and choices, laying the foundation for responsible leadership.

Encouraging Decision-Making: Kindergarteners in Montessori classrooms are encouraged to make decisions about their learning. They select activities based on their interests and needs, which requires critical thinking and decision-making skills. These early experiences help children become confident in their ability to make choices, a crucial aspect of leadership.

Emphasis on Communication and Collaboration: Effective leaders are skilled communicators and collaborators. In Montessori classrooms, children engage in frequent interactions with their peers. They work together on projects, discuss ideas, and solve problems collaboratively. These experiences teach kindergarteners the importance of listening, expressing themselves clearly, and working harmoniously with others.

Respect for Others and the Environment: Montessori education places a strong emphasis on respect for others and the environment. Children are taught to be considerate of their classmates’ needs and to care for the materials in their classroom. This respect extends to the world beyond the classroom, instilling a sense of responsibility for the community and the environment—an important aspect of ethical leadership.

Self-Confidence and Initiative: Montessori classrooms nurture self-confidence by allowing children to explore and master tasks independently. As kindergarteners experience success in their endeavors, their self-esteem grows, making them more willing to take initiative and lead in various situations.

Adaptability and Problem-Solving: Montessori education encourages children to adapt to different situations and challenges. By facing new and diverse tasks daily, kindergarteners develop problem-solving skills, resilience, and the ability to remain composed under pressure—traits vital for effective leadership.

The Montessori Method, with its emphasis on independence, responsibility, communication, and collaboration, provides fertile ground for cultivating leadership skills in kindergarten. By nurturing these qualities from an early age, Montessori education equips children with the tools they need to become confident and capable leaders in their future endeavors. As we continue to recognize the importance of leadership skills in various aspects of life, the Montessori approach stands out as a powerful means of fostering leadership qualities in our youngest learners.

Disaster Preparedness at Learn And Play® Montessori School

As parents, one of our primary concerns is the safety and well-being of our children. When it comes to choosing an educational environment for them, safety should be a top priority. Montessori schools are renowned for their innovative and child-centered approach to education. However, it’s equally important to understand how these schools implement crucial safety protocols and drills to ensure the safety of every child.

Disaster preparedness at Learn and Play Montessori School with school locations in Milpitas, Fremont, and Dublin, California.

Fire Drill Preparedness: Learn And Play® Montessori school’s commitment to safety includes regularly scheduled fire drills. These drills ensure that both students and staff are well-prepared in the event of a fire emergency. Children are taught the importance of remaining calm and following exit procedures.

Earthquake Drill Readiness: Our schools have been inspected for earthquake safety, reinforcing the importance of a secure learning environment. Necessary safety measures, such as secure shelving and anchoring heavy items, are implemented. We also conduct earthquake drills to prepare children for this type of emergency. Students learn to drop, cover, and hold on during an earthquake, ensuring their safety.

Teacher CPR Training: Our Montessori teachers often undergo CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) training as part of their professional development. CPR-trained teachers can provide immediate assistance to a child or colleague in distress, significantly increasing the chances of a positive outcome until professional medical help arrives.

Partnership with Joffe Emergency Services: We have partnered with Joffe Emergency Services as they specialize in emergency preparedness. This partnership provides us access to expert guidance, resources, and emergency response plans tailored to their unique needs. This also ensures that Montessori schools stay up-to-date with the latest safety protocols, making certain that their safety measures align with the highest standards.

Choosing a Montessori school for your child not only provides them with an enriching educational experience but also prioritizes their safety. Through the implementation of rigorous safety protocols, regular drills, teacher CPR training, and collaborations with organizations like Joffe Emergency Services, Learn And Play® Montessori schools are committed to ensuring a secure and nurturing environment. Parents can take comfort in knowing that their children are not only receiving an exceptional education but are also protected by a comprehensive safety framework designed to keep them safe in any emergency situation. When it comes to education and safety, Learn And Play® Montessori schools aim for excellence on all fronts.

Daycare, Preschool, Kindergarten Milpitas, CA

How To Apply For Learn And Play® Admissions? What Is The Process?

Parents with small children are often curious as to how our enrollment process works. Feel free to call us directly, or read this post for helpful instructions.

  1. Enrollment process for Fremont, Dublin, and Danville preschools.Schedule a School Tour: You are welcome to take a school tour of our Montessori Campus. Our tours are available Monday to Friday. Call us at (510) 916-1600 or email us at [email protected] to schedule a tour at your convenience.
  2. Tour and Meeting with the Director: After the Montessori school tour, the director will meet with you and answer any questions you may have. An application form and a brochure will be given to you. You will also be sent an enrollment link so you can digitally fill out the application form.
  3. Submit Application and Application Fee: A $300 non-refundable application fee is due with the application to confirm and hold your child’s place.
  4. Acceptance and Enrollment Packet & Fees: Upon receipt of the application and the $300 non-refundable application fee, an enrollment packet will be given. The parents will complete, sign and return all portions of the enrollment agreements, emergency forms, health history forms, immunization records and all other required forms before child’s first day of school.
  5. Before Child’s First Day of School: Please make sure to submit all completed forms before your child’s first day of school. The admissions team will be sending you an enrollment packet via email which would include all the required forms.

The admissions process for our Montessori school is designed to ensure that every child has the opportunity to thrive in our nurturing and supportive learning environment, and we look forward to welcoming your family into our community.

Enriching Futures: Unleash the Potential of Your Child with Montessori After-School Programs

In today’s fast-paced world, parents are constantly seeking educational opportunities that go beyond the traditional classroom setting. Montessori education, renowned for its child-centric approach and emphasis on hands-on learning, has emerged as a beacon of holistic development. But what if we told you that the benefits of Montessori don’t have to end with the school bell? Welcome to the world of Montessori after-school programs, where learning becomes an adventure that extends beyond the regular school hours.

Why Montessori After-School Programs?Montessori program in Fremont, California.

Montessori after-school programs offer a unique blend of academic enrichment, creativity, and personal growth. They provide a nurturing environment that fosters curiosity, self-expression, and social interaction. Here are some compelling reasons to consider enrolling your child:

Montessori after-school programs offer a plethora of activities that cater to a child’s innate curiosity:

  • From yoga to music, children are encouraged to express themselves artistically, fostering creativity and imagination.
  • We also have language activities to expand vocabulary, encourage reading, and promote effective communication through storytelling, poetry, and language games.
  • The children also have the opportunity to work on their school homework through our homework club, ensuring your child’s academic needs are met.
  • Through hands-on experiments, children delve into STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math), igniting a passion for discovery.

Montessori after-school programs are an investment in your child’s future – a future filled with curiosity, creativity, and a love for learning. These programs provide a nurturing environment where children can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. So, why not extend the benefits of Montessori education beyond the school day and unlock a world of growth and exploration for your child? Enroll them in a Montessori after-school program and witness the transformation firsthand.

After School Program Schedule

We have 2 available scheduled for our After School program: 11:30 AM – 6:00 PM and 2:30 PM – 6:00 PM. The schedule below is for both programs, according to the program selected.

11:30 – 12:00    Transition Time / Handwashing (Fables / Artist / Composer / Social and Emotional Learning)
12:00 – 12:30    Lunch
12:30 – 1:00      Yoga / Silent Reading / Music and Movement
1:00 – 2:30        Cultural Studies
2:30 – 2:45        Transition Time / Handwashing / Story Time
2:45 – 3:00        Snack
3:00 – 3:30        Poetry
3:30 – 4:00        STEM Enrichment Program
4:00 – 4:30        Homework Club
4:30 – 5:15        Creative and Inspirational Arts 
5:15 – 6:00        Outside playtime

Nurturing Curiosity and Innovation: Exploring STEM in Montessori Education

In the dynamic world of education, the Montessori approach stands out for its emphasis on hands-on learning, self-directed exploration, and fostering a lifelong love for learning. When combined with STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) principles, Montessori education takes on a new dimension, where children’s natural curiosity and innovative thinking are nurtured from a young age. In this article, we delve into how we implement STEM experiments in our Montessori school to inspire young minds and ignite a passion for discovery.

At our Montessori school, we believe that the core principles of Montessori education align seamlessly with the foundations of STEM learning. Both philosophies emphasize experiential learning, critical thinking, and hands-on engagement. Our classrooms are designed to foster independence and creativity, providing an ideal environment for children to explore STEM concepts in a meaningful way.

Some of the STEM Experiments in Our Montessori School this September:early childhood education can foster STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) in Fremont

In the coming weeks, the children will be exploring a few Montessori + STEM based experiments to continue to nurture the child’s exposure to discovering new STEM-related concepts and materials.

  • Electricity: LED Experiment with Playdough – The children will learn about the basics of electricity and how it flows through playdough to conduct electricity
  • Optical: Concave/Convex – They will learn about the basics of reflection and observe how a flexible mirror can distort reflection
  • Chemistry: Chromatography Paper – Through coffee filters, the children will learn about the basics of separating mixtures and observe how different colors of ink separate into their component parts when placed on a piece of paper

Experiments form the heart of our STEM curriculum. We create an environment where students can actively engage with scientific concepts, encouraging them to ask questions, make predictions, and test hypotheses. These hands-on experiences allow children to learn through their senses, honing their observation skills and fostering a deep understanding of the scientific method.

Our Montessori STEM curriculum isn’t just about teaching facts and figures. It’s about nurturing a lifelong curiosity about the world around us. By providing children with the tools to explore, question, and innovate, we aim to cultivate a generation of thinkers, problem-solvers, and leaders who are equipped to tackle the challenges of tomorrow. Through the marriage of Montessori principles and STEM education, we empower our students to be curious, confident, and capable learners.

Starting Early: The Benefits of Enrolling Your Child in Montessori at 18 Months

The journey of education is a remarkable one, and when it comes to the early years of a child’s life, the impact is profound. Imagine the world through your child’s eyes, where every moment is a chance to explore, learn, and grow. At our Montessori school, we believe in nurturing this innate curiosity from the very beginning. Enrolling your child as early as 18 months can set the stage for a lifelong love of learning, independence, and holistic development. Let’s delve into why starting early in a Montessori environment can be one of the best gifts you give to your child.

18 months daycare program in Fremont, Dublin, and Danville

 

Emotional Development: Our Learn And Play® Montessori classrooms create an emotionally safe place for the children. Your toddler will be with a loving and nurturing teacher whose focus is to help your child transition to our environment as a first step. Our teachers are trained to demonstrate respect and compassion by using low-tone voices, eye contact, and addressing your child by their name to gain their trust.

Social Development: Our toddler programs have been designed to foster a secure and inspiring environment where toddlers can learn grace and courtesy. During classroom activities and supervised play outdoors, teachers introduce critical social skills such as taking turns, following directions, sharing, and basic etiquette (e.g., saying “please” and “thank you”).

Physical Development: We provide children with plenty of opportunities to develop and hone their large and fine motor skills. Our outdoor activities are designed to allow toddlers to engage in fun activities such as climbing, jumping, and balancing. Additionally, our Montessori classrooms offer engaging opportunities that encourage the development of fine motor movements.

Enrolling your child in Montessori at the tender age of 18 months is a commitment to their future. We offer 18 month daycare programs in Fremont, Dublin, and Danville – so please reach out to discuss your options. It’s a decision that nurtures their natural curiosity, fosters their independence, and sets the stage for a lifetime of meaningful learning experiences. At our Montessori school, we understand the incredible potential that lies within every child. By embarking on this journey early, you’re providing them with the tools they need to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Join us in creating a foundation for a lifetime of success and joy in learning. Enroll your child today, and let the adventure begin.

Embracing the Excitement: Getting Ready for Fall 2023!

Fall 2023 is just around the corner, and there’s an undeniable sense of excitement in the air. Nature’s palette is about to transform, and so are our lives, as we gear up for a season filled with vibrant experiences and new beginnings.

So, as we bid adieu to the success of the LAPMSsummer program 2023, we prepare to embrace the beauty of fall, let’s welcome the changing season with open hearts and open minds. With excitement and wonder, let’s step into Fall 2023 and savor all that it has to offer.

Fall back to school to preschool, daycare, and childcare in Fremont, Dublin, and Danville, California - Mom shows her child a welcome sign.

Here are some tips on a smooth transition for going back to school this fall:

  • Open Communication: Begin by discussing the upcoming changes with your child. Montessori education encourages independence, so involving your child in the process fosters a sense of responsibility. Explain the new routine, emphasize the positive aspects of school, and address any concerns your child might have.
  • Introduce Practical Skills: Montessori philosophy emphasizes the development of practical life skills. Prepare your child for school by practicing activities such as putting on their own shoes and coat, using the bathroom independently, and packing their backpack with necessary items.
  • Create a Morning Routine: Establishing a consistent morning routine can help ease the transition. Encourage your child to wake up at a consistent time, have a healthy breakfast, and engage in calming activities before leaving for school.

As you prepare your child for this school year, remember to integrate Montessori principles into your home routine. Engaging in seasonal activities together not only nurtures your child’s curiosity and creativity but also strengthens your parent-child bond. By embracing the fall season with enthusiasm and a Montessori mindset, you’ll be setting the stage for a fulfilling educational experience for your child.

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

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