Frequently Asked Questions

Choosing a Montessori education is about choosing an approach that deeply respects your child as an individual. Instead of asking children to adapt to a rigid curriculum, we adapt our environment to fit the child. We honor their natural curiosity and developmental pace, empowering them to become confident, independent, and joyful lifelong learners. The goal is not just to teach facts, but to inspire a love of learning that will last a lifetime.

Many children begin their Montessori journey around age three, as this is a vibrant developmental period when they are like little sponges, effortlessly absorbing the world around them. This is the heart of our Primary program (ages 3-6). However, the truth is that a child can benefit from the Montessori method at any age. The most important factor is finding a nurturing environment where your child is respected and encouraged to explore.

Many children with ADHD thrive in a Montessori environment. Because our approach allows for freedom of movement, children aren’t confined to a desk all day. The hands-on, multi-sensory materials can capture a child’s interest in a way that lectures or worksheets often can’t. By allowing children to follow their own interests at their own pace, we often see a remarkable increase in their ability to concentrate. We always recommend a personal conversation to discuss your child’s unique needs and how we can best support them.

A Montessori classroom can be a wonderfully supportive environment for many children on the autism spectrum. The calm, predictable structure of the classroom and the emphasis on a consistent routine can feel very safe and reassuring. The learning is self-paced and individualized, which allows a child to explore and learn without feeling pressured or overwhelmed. The focus on concrete, hands-on materials can also be a powerful way to learn. We encourage you to speak with us directly to determine if our program is the right fit for your child.

A Montessori classroom is a calm, beautiful, and orderly space designed entirely for the child. You’ll notice lots of natural light, child-sized furniture, and low, open shelves with a wide array of carefully chosen learning materials. The room is thoughtfully arranged into different areas, like Practical Life, Sensorial, Language, and Math, that invite exploration. It’s a peaceful and engaging environment where children can move freely and choose their own work.

We don't use a traditional A-F grading system. Instead of focusing on external scores, we focus on the child’s individual journey toward mastering a concept. Our guides (teachers) are expert observers, carefully tracking each child's progress and providing new challenges when they are ready. This approach fosters intrinsic motivation, where the reward is the work itself and the pride of accomplishment, not a letter on a report card.

These terms are often used interchangeably, but there can be a difference. A "Montessori preschool" typically refers to the Primary program for children aged 3-6, which is the core educational heart of the method. While some Montessori schools offer extended hours that might resemble "daycare," a true Montessori program is always an educational environment, not just a custodial one. Even during extended hours, the principles of respect, independence, and purposeful activity guide our day.

The vast majority of Montessori schools in the United States, including The Children's Schoolhouse, are independent private schools that are funded by tuition. While there are a small but growing number of public and charter Montessori schools, most operate independently.

The Montessori method itself is not religious. It is a scientific method of education based on Dr. Maria Montessori's observations of child development. While some Montessori schools may be affiliated with a specific faith, The Children's Schoolhouse and the method itself are secular. We welcome families from all backgrounds and beliefs.

This is a wonderful question because it speaks to the quality and dedication of our teachers. Montessori teacher certification is a rigorous, graduate-level commitment. Training is an immersive experience that involves hundreds of hours of instruction on child development, Montessori philosophy, and hands-on practice with every material in the classroom. This intensive preparation ensures that our guides are not just teachers, but true experts in supporting your child’s natural development.