Choosing the right school for your child can feel like a life-altering decision. It can feel even more impactful when thinking about their growth and development as a toddler. By age 3 – your child’s brain will be 90% fully grown. Consider how much has happened in just 3 years!
These first few years are essential to focus on and foster a positive growth period. It may be challenging based on your financial, personal and situational experience – but – you have many options available. One of those options is the Montessori School Program. I have summarized key facts about the Montessori Program below. Take a look, share your thoughts & experiences and reach out with any questions.
How did the Montessori School Program Start?
The Montessori program and philosophy of learning is based on a person. Dr. Maria Montessori was an Italian educator and scientist. She developed the system of education focused on child brain development and the best form of education to support a healthy, engaged growth. The recognition and focus on the formative years of growth is what Dr. Montessori’s legacy is about.
The Montessori program does span all ages of children and it will depend on your local area to find the educational range available. For infants and toddlers – the teachers will provide a loving and nurturing environment. This will create a space for them to wonder, be curious, explore, learn independence and simply discover.
You can learn much more about the history of Montessori and other important details by visiting the American Montessori Society (AMS).
How Much Does a Montessori School Program Cost?
The cost to enroll your toddler in a Montessori program will vary (like most things) by your location, length of enrollment and income. Most Montessori schools will adjust their costs and work with you based on your economic status and other factors for reduced costs and/or payment plan options. Some general examples of average costs include:
California residents can expect to pay between $13,000 and $14,000 per year for toddlers and preschool/kindergarten children
New York City residents can expect to pay an average range of $28,000 and $35,000 for the same.
An annual Montessori education in Chicago can be as high as $15,000 and $17,000 per year
In southern states such as Arkansas and Mississippi, average annual tuition costs are significantly lower at about $7,000 and $7,300.
How Toddlers in Montessori Learn
Toddlers will be given the opportunity to learn in many ways within the Montessori program. The regular routines of daily living will be used to teach, learn and grow. Imagine spending time to simply learn how to put your shoes on, unpack your snacks, push your chair in and much more… it would certainly create a positive impact and a wonderful world to live in.
Those activities are used every day for toddlers to develop social and other critical life skills. The emphasis is on the development of independence, learning order and organization, coordination and concentration.
Toddlers will have the ability to enhance their social, emotional, physical and cognitive development. Common learning activities include:
Self-care: washing, dressing, toileting, and eating, according to each child’s individual capacity
Care of the environment: cleaning, food preparation and food service; plant care and animal care
Large-motor activities (indoors and out): walking, climbing, running, jumping, balancing, climbing steps, and more
Fine-motor skills: reaching, grasping, picking up objects, transferring objects, using tools and utensils, doing art work
Language: naming objects, describing actions and intentions, discussing pictures, conversation, music, and singing
Social skills: developing manners through interactions with peers, teachers, and adult-led small group games
To find a Montessori program near you, visit the AMS website to search by your location to find a local school. You can then read more about the accreditation and contact information.
My Story…
When able, I will share my experience in my articles if I can add personally. My daughter is currently enrolled in a Montessori program. I was not familiar with the program before she started. I can certainly say it has been a wonderful experience. She is fully engaged, joyful about going, sad to leave when we pick her up and genuinely is growing and developing. The community built around the Montessori school is strong and inviting. I encourage any parent to explore the option to see if it is right for you and your family.