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Preparing Your Child for Montessori: A Parent’s Guide

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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.

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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?

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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.

Nurturing Curiosity and Innovation: Exploring STEM in Montessori Education

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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.

Irvington Campus Is Now Enrolling! Please Join Our Open House!

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Our Irvington Campus is located in Fremont’s trendy Irvington neighborhood, this beautiful and spacious Montessori school campus includes eight large classrooms and secluded play area for children ages 18 months to 9 years. [Read more…] about Irvington Campus Is Now Enrolling! Please Join Our Open House!

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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