Assistants to Infancy (18 months-3 years)

Our special environment is specifically designed to meet the needs of toddlers, with smaller furniture, tiled floors, lots of natural light, pictures hung low on the walls, and defined spaces to invite movement and opportunities for motor development. Throughout the year, the directress may recommend that some children in the Toddler Community move up into the Children’s House (Primary) program. The timing of this transition is based on each child’s development and readiness.

The classroom is divided into three distinct areas, with materials available that are specific to each area and the Toddler curriculum.

Manipulatives feature materials to help toddlers develop hand-eye coordination, including threading, bead-stringing, cubes on pegs, spheres on horizontal pegs, puzzles and a variety of other exercises.

Practical Life includes materials to help children learn to wash their hands, prepare and serve a snack, set and clear the table, sweep, care for plants and animals, wash dishes and clothing, polish items, clean windows, arrange flowers, glue, fold and more.

Language involves using objects, nomenclature cards and books, along with spoken vocabulary-enrichment exercises that include reading books, and other activities, including art and music.

"We have found MSR to be a wonderful educational community and there is no doubt in my mind that my daughter is getting a first-rate Montessori education. **We love the learning environment and how it nourishes her innate curiosity. It is apparent that the Directress and assistants truly care about my daughter's development and the staff is always available to help. What more can one ask for?"