Choosing the Right Preschool

Is an elementary Montessori education the right choice for your child? You've heard of Montessori preschools—but your child is too old for this type of program. Before you enroll your child in a primary school, take a look at what you need to know about Montessori education, multi-age groupings, and the lower elementary level.

Are Montessori Schools Preschools? 

The United States is home to thousands of Montessori schools. These programs include a mix of preschools, preschool/primary grades, and elementary options. While Montessori preschools are popular early childhood education choices for families with children ages six and under, many of these programs include options for older students. 

If your local Montessori school only serves preschoolers and toddlers, it's likely that you can find a combination early childhood/elementary or primary-only option nearby. Contact the individual school to learn more about the ages of the students and elementary-level classrooms. 

Are Elementary Students In Multi-Age Classes?

The multi-age classroom grouping is a staple of the Montessori philosophy. Younger children are grouped into a two-and-a-half or three-year to age six early childhood classroom. Likewise, the lower elementary students are also grouped into one multi-age group. The lower elementary in many Montessori schools includes children in grades one through three—ages six through nine. The upper elementary school is another division. This grouping includes children ages nine through 12 or grades four through six.

Unlike traditional schools, which feature an age-by-age annual transition grade-level grouping approach, Montessori elementary schools keep students together for multiple years. This helps the child to form a bond with other students and the educator. Over time this can create a close, caring community of learners who support each other. It can also help to build social and emotional skills. 

Beyond the social aspects of a multi-age grouping, this educational strategy also encourages cognitive and other types of growth. Older or more advanced students can help younger/newer learners. This provides additional learning options for younger classmates while helping the older children to develop critical-thinking, problem-solving, and memory skills.

Do Montessori Elementary Schools Include Traditional Academics?

Yes, your child will get an academic education in a primary level Montessori program. These programs include math, language, science, social studies, and the arts. But that's not all. Elementary students also participate in practical life activities. This aspect of the curriculum expands on the foundation that many Montessori preschoolers build during their early childhood education. Practical life elementary skills bridge multiple categories and may include anything from self-care to time or school assignment management. 

To learn more, contact a company like Tej Acton Academy.