0-3 Years

Montessori Toddler Program

Montessori education is a holistic philosophy that is child-centered. Dr. Montessori observed that children experience sensitive periods as they grow and Montessori teachers should apply appropriate guidance and learning materials during these sensitive periods to cultivate spontaneity and active learning. This time has to be uninterrupted blocks of time under the guidance of teachers to cultivate good habits such as focus and concentration which happens to be naturally absorbed and internalized during this critical learning period.

Maria Montessori believes in valuing the child as an individual, free to learn at his/her own pace. When trained teachers prepare the classroom environment during this sensitive period of development, the child is able to develop into his/her own physically, socially, emotionally and cognitively. Each class is structured to encourage independence, freedom within limits and a sense of order.

From birth to 3 years of age, this developmental stage is where children develop cognitive skills through movement, sight, sound, taste, smell and touch. Sensory-motor activities are critical during this phase of development. If successfully integrated via Montessori methods, this will certainly maximize the child’s learning opportunities, the child then begins to apply this knowledge to the real world.

Montessori teaching components, can be divided into five areas of education: daily life, sensory, language, mathematics, and humanities.

Daily Activities (Through Practice)

Daily routines support the child’s individual emerging “self-regulation” (ability to educate one’s self, and to reflect on what he/she is learning). Personal etiquette, personal hygiene, love and taking care of the environment are reinforced. This is structured to train children to be comfortable with their body and refine motor skills such as hand-eye coordination. This creates a foundation for independence, and builds self-confidence, discipline, patience and focus.

Sensory (Sensorial)

Human cognitive and intellectual abilities are cultivated by honing in on the senses, only then can they generate awareness and wisdom. To build acute awareness, sensory education needs to build observation skills, and allow the child freedom to make judgements and comparisons. Sensory education will also help the child develop his/her keen sense of smell and touch in three dimensions.

Language

From 0 to 3 years, this is a critical period for the child to develop their hearing and listening skills. The classroom is equipped with a large number of physical language teaching aids that can enrich the child’s vocabulary, enhance oral expression and improve his language skills through reading.

Mathematics

It is important to establish the concept of numbers as early as possible to develop logical thinking skills and ability to perform judgement.

Arts & the Humanities

Developing appreciation of nature, performing arts, music and play are so vital to how children experience the world.