What is the Two Year Old Program?

     The Montessori Method of education is based on the observations and discoveries of Dr. Maria Montessori.  Hope Montessori, Inc. strives to follow this method, to realize the ideals, and to be a true example of a Montessori School.

    Our Two Year Old Program is about "following the child” and facilitating his learning within a developmentally appropriate Prepared Environment. The child is invited to work in a non-competitive atmosphere of freedom, responsibility, peace and respect   

     There are numerous activities available: art activities, puzzles, gross and fine motor, water play, language and reading... ; almost everywhere you look, you find materials that invite hands-on learning.  As the teachers get to know your child, they see what your child is drawn to and how to meet your child’s individual needs. The teachers try not to direct/lead too much, but rather, seek to find the right balance to allow for your child’s discovery.  Many of the materials require a “presentation”, where the teacher first shows the child how to use the materials.  The children are then free to explore the material appropriately. 

     We often see much repetition as a child concentrates and works to his heart’s content.  Montessori time is set to the child’s clock.  It is unhurried.  Each child’s educational “curriculum” is individually determined, according to the pace they set and their interests.   Given time, children cover all developmental areas and achieve balance.  Children learn so easily at this age. Maria Montessori referred to this as the time of the “absorbent mind”.  Even more important than the academics, is the manner in which they are learning.  In a Montessori classroom children feel empowered and respected in their learning.  They learn joyfully… They become more self-confident… In Montessori, children are encouraged to see the world as an exciting place of wonder which is just beginning to open up to them; it is a new world with so much to discover! Children are encouraged to become active (rather than passive) learners, self-directed and self-disciplined...   

     Children in Montessori classrooms are free to work cooperatively with their friends and are constantly exercising their social skills.  Teachers give guidance and model appropriate behavior.  Children are respected and learn to respect one another.  Each child builds an awareness of self, of others, and of the world.

      We value parents as partners. The teachers observe and track the children’s development and share this information with parents.  We welcome observation through our one-way mirrors.  As parents, you are seen as your child’s most precious teacher. We hope to form a cooperative relationship with the child and the family as we join in this part of the journey of their lives. Parent support and involvement is vital to the health of our school community.  There are many opportunities to get together over the course of the school year, including parent/teacher conferences twice a year

     It is our wish to nurture the joy of learning and the spirit of children in our community.  It is our hope, that in nurturing all that is good in our children, we will be creating a better world.

      The teachers observe and track the children’s development and share this information with parents.  As parents, you are seen as your child’s most precious teacher. We hope to form a cooperative relationship with the child and the family as we join in this part of the journey of their lives. Parent support and involvement is vital to the health of our school community.  There are many opportunities to get together over the course of the school year.

It is our wish to nurture the joy of learning and the spirit of children in our community.  It is our hope, that in nurturing all that is good in our children, we will be creating a better world.