We have a single classroom comprised of children ranging between 3 and 6 years old. The mixed age grouping is intentionally designed to give children the unique opportunity to succeed in a miniature community, where mutual respect, caring, sharing and self-reliance can flourish. Older children are mentors and role models for the younger children. Through teaching and mentoring the younger children, their knowledge is reinforced.
Montessori guides (teachers) prepare the classroom environment to support a child’s natural curiosity; a place to be happy, act, do and feel safe. Children learn individually and in small groups. In this prepared environment the child has freedom withinh limits. They choose activities that has been introduced to him/her from the different areas of the classroom. Our classroom consists of the following areas:
Practical Life
Exercises such as washing dishes, polishing objects, setting the table, watering plants and sewing are designed to develop self-confidence, self value and strong caracter. These exercises build and refine the child’s sense of order, concentration, coordination and independence, which prepares the child for all other areas of the classroom. It is the foundation from which all other areas construct, such as language, geometry and science. Another important aspect of this area is that it enables children to maintain, repair and embelish your person and your environment.
Language
The Montessori language curriculum includes all the elements of language: auditory, oral, mechanical, interpretive and grammar. There is great variety of materials in this area. The most classic of which include the sandpaper letters and moveable alphabet. Language development is embedded in the entire classroom (rather than an isolated subject) with plenty of opportunity for language in all areas of study.
Math
Math materials are esthetically appealing, precise and simple. This is one of the most desired areas of the classroom. Concrete representation of abstract ideas and symbols help the child understand concepts and prepare him for future extensions of the work.
Physical and Life Science
Children learn about the world through observation, experimentation and care of our environment. Young children love nature and are truly intrigued by its mysteries. We offer an abundance of hands-on opportunities for children to understand and appreciate science. Activities range from the study of animals, botany, rocks & minerals to simple science experiments and the outdoors – gardening and wildlife.
Culture
Culture: The study of Culture and Geography start with the sensorial exploration of directionality, body awareness, weather and the calendar. From there we begin to study our world, starting with the sand paper globe, identifying land and water, then beginning to name continents, oceans and seas. The puzzle maps accentuate mapping skills and exploration of different countries and their cultures. Our Cultural studies encompass the traditions, holidays, music and food from all over the world. Our diverse community of students is always a positive and interesting advantage to our Cultural studies.
Art, Music and Movement
The children are given an opportunity to develop their gross and fine motor skills through creative movement and art. Music is integral to our day, incorporated into much of our cultural work and often as a soothing background to our work period. Art encourages the natural desire to create. Our art program also emphasizes the process rather than the product, giving children more freedom to be creative. Music and Art have a known scientific connection to cognitive development, emotional health and academic achievement.
Outdoor Environment
Our work continues into the playgraound/outdoor classroom, where children have the opportunity to cultivate our organic school garden, and learn about beneficial bugs and care of wildlife.
We are a Spanish Immersion Montessori Preschool in San Francisco
101 Gold Mine Dr., San Francisco, CA 94131 | (415)757-0009