Early Childhood
Ages 3-6
The 3-6 year old or Early Childhood student is in the First Plane of Development as outlined by Maria Montessori. The child at this level has a sensorial relationship to his environment; he learns by touching and manipulating real objects. All Early Childhood activities are concrete materials that the child is encouraged to explore following an initial presentation by the teacher or guide.
Academic achievement is often the outcome of this well-rounded curriculum. However, Montessori’s goal was not merely academic success. Rather, she sought to nurture the spirit and aid in the development of the child as a whole (Education for Life). These goals are designed to foster a positive self-image, to develop children’s fullest potential, and to prepare them for their future; thus to empower the child. There are six basic areas of the Montessori Early Childhood Curriculum: Practical Life, Sensorial, Language, Math, Science and Geography.
Practical Life activities help the child to develop concentration, coordination, independence and order the routine of completing a work cycle using activities of daily life. Sensorial activities train the child to use all senses to explore their environment. Math provides a foundation for problem solving and critical thinking skills through the use of concrete materials. Language brings together the reading and writing skills of the child to develop logical thinking. Science and Geography offer the child a context in which to understand their existence.
The Grove follows a standard school-year calendar in alignment with CISD. The school is closed during breaks and holidays. Summer camp is offered for an additional fee for most weeks for June and July. Students also bring their own snacks and lunches at all program levels. Due to allergies and food preferences, no food service is offered by The Grove.
"The child has to acquire physical independence by being self-sufficient; he must become of independent will by using in freedom his own power of choice; he must become capable of independent thought by working alone without interruption. The child’s development follows a path of successive stages of independence."
-Dr. Maria Montessori
Daily Schedule
8:00 - 8:15 Car line
8:15 - 11:15 Work Period - The uninterrupted work period is fundamental to the Montessori approach, is when the
building of coordination, concentration, independence and order, and the assimilation of information are able to occur.
11:15 - 11:30 Circle time (community meeting). Gather in circle with songs, stories, and small group lessons.
*check the weather
*linear counting (days of school)
*sing songs
*read books
*play games
*share personal experiences
*lessons
11:30 - 12:15 Playground - Movement is a fundamental aspect of the child's development giving the child space to develop gross motor skills, self-awareness, and work in their social skills.
12:15 - 12:50 Lunch
1:00 - 2:00 Nap
1:00 - 2:00 Work Period
*Pre-k
*Kindergartners
2:15 Dismissal circle time
2:30 Car line