(Ages 2 ½ – 5Yrs)

Dr. Montessori observed that children go through various sensitive stages in which they are very receptive to learning specific skills. She stressed the importance of developing the senses between the ages of two and six when the child naturally wishes to use and perfect his/her senses. Thus, the materials used by the children are designed for them to learn by seeing, touching, hearing feeling and moving.

The Montessori prepared environment allows children to meet their needs through individual, spontaneous activities; the child’s sensitivities guide his choice. The children work with scientifically selected materials to build concentration and self-discipline, while learning skills. Their education is an active rather than passive process where the child educates him or herself. Class time is an individual or small group format, although at some part of each day the entire group is together for singing, story telling and movement activities.

Dr. Montessori realized that if the child is guided during this crucial period to perfect his natural tools for learning (the senses, the hand, the intelligence) and to grow towards self-discipline and independence, then he/she will develop a sturdiness of character and natural love for learning that will last the child all their life.