What is Montessori and why should I send my child to Montessori Preschool?

The “Montessori Method” was founded in 1907 by Dr. Maria Montessori, an Italian physician and educator.  Montessori is a child-centered educational approach that focuses on independence and freedom within limits. The essential purpose of Montessori education is to offer each child an environment where he/she can develop the skills and habits needed for a lifetime of learning.

The Montessori method focuses on the child as a whole (emotionally, socially, and academically), and while children are still taught the basics of mathematics and language, they’re also taught  to develop their understanding of the world around them, their social character, and the skills necessary to live a life of learning and curiosity. 

What is a good age for children to begin preschool?

The best time to start your child’s education is between the ages of 2.5 to 3, when most of a child’s intelligence and social characteristics are formed. Fifty percent of a child’s mental development occurs before the age of 4.

How old does my child have to be to attend?

We accept children ages 2.5 to 6. Children who start school in September and are 2.5 years of age must turn 3 by or before December 31st.

Children who are 4 years of age are eligible to register in the full-day program. Children who start school in September and are 3 years of age must turn 4 years of age by or before December 31st.

Montessori classes place children in three-year age groups (0-3, 3-6, 6-9, 9-12, and so on).

Does my child need to be toilet trained before he/she begins school?

Yes, all children are required to be fully toilet trained before they attend the school program.

Do you offer a 2 or 3 day program?

As part of the Montessori philosophy, the consistency of attending school every day is necessary for children to settle into behavioural expectations, so that they can focus on the learning experience offered to them at our school. In this way, we can help children to reach their full potential.

Do you currently have a waitlist?

We begin our waitlist for the upcoming school year on October 1st each year. Burnaby Montessori School follows a formal registration process, which begins with parents registering for an information session.

How many children and teachers are in each class?

In the half-day program there are up to 20 children with two teachers in both the morning and afternoon classes. In the full-day program there are 25 children with three teachers.

What is the tuition fee schedule?

There is a one time $100 non-refundable registration fee for all new children. The remainder of the tuition is paid with post-dated cheques dated for the first of each month.

Who accredits or overseas Montessori Schools?

Unfortunately, there is no way to limit the use of the name “Montessori.” Parents must carefully research and observe a classroom in operation in order to determine what will be best for their child(ren).

How do Montessori children do later in school?

Studies show that Montessori children are well prepared for elementary school, high school, and college/university. In addition to scoring well on standardized tests, Montessori children are ranked above average on such criteria as following directions, turning in work on time, listening attentively, using basic skills, showing responsibility, asking provocative questions, showing enthusiasm for learning, and adapting to new situations.

What qualifications do the teachers have?

All of our teachers are highly qualified, energetic, creative and passionate. The teachers are Montessori certified, have an Early Childhood Educator license, and have First Aid training.

What is the difference between Montessori and traditional preschool?

A Montessori educational environment emphasizes learning through all five senses, not just through listening, watching, or reading. Children in a Montessori environment learn at their own, individual pace.