The Classroom:
Upon entering a Montessori classroom, several elements will tell you that this is a very special space. Montessori classrooms provide an atmosphere that is pleasant and attractive and allows children to interact with others in a peaceful environment. The classroom is filled with learning materials designed to enhance the five senses and help build intellect. Brightly-colored classroom materials help draw the child's attention to activities that teach a lesson or open a door to new levels of learning. Children have the opportunity to explore, discover, engage and investigate their world.
Children work in small groups or individually, at tables or on the floor on comfortable rugs. Classrooms contain mixed ages, 18 months - 3 years and 3-6 years, all working together at their own pace. A child does not engage in an activity until a teacher or another student has directly demonstrated its proper use. Then the child may use it appropriately, limited only by individual imagination. Each activity leads directly to a new level of learning or to a new concept. Repetition of activities is considered an integral part of this learning process and children are allowed to repeat activities as often as they wish.
Our Programs:
Country Brook Montessori School currently offers educational programs for Toddler (Ages 18 months - 3 yrs.), Early Childhood (Ages 3 - 6), and Elementary (Ages 6 - 9). We also provide before and after school programs, as well as summer camp sessions.
Toddler: Our toddler classrooms provide a small group Montessori experience beginning with children aged 18 months. The classroom is carefully prepared to meet the unique needs of this age group. All furniture is sized to allow maximum independence and the toddler materials are designed to be attractive and inviting to the children. Toddlers are very curious by nature. Allowing toddlers to explore the activities in the environment provides critical stimulation for whole body development. The activities in the classroom are designed to assist with the development of language skills, number concepts, care of oneself and the environment, and motor skills. Social interaction with other children, along with music and movement activities, are also integral to the Montessori toddler experience.
Early Childhood: Enter an Early Childhood classroom at Country Brook Montessori and you will see children engaged in a variety of activities. Some may be preparing their snack, or scrubbing a table, or carefully folding napkins to be used at lunch. Some may be tracing sandpaper letters or studying the relationships of different geometric solids. A peaceful hum of activity is present while the children are busy at work.
From an early age, CBMS children discover that learning is fun, satisfying, and often a joyous pursuit. Montessori work can mean practicing a skill, acquiring knowledge, creating artwork, or taking care of practical needs. The Montessori materials are set out attractively on shelves at the children's height so the children may select what they are most drawn to during any given work session. The Montessori teacher guides each child through the natural profession of materials, giving lessons in the order that ensures appropriate development. Gradually, the work increases their powers of concentration, sharpens their attention to detail, and establishes orderly working habits.
While in school, your child will have the opportunity to develop skills and knowledge in: Language, Handwriting, Geography, Math, History, Sensorial Experiences, Sciences, Art and Music, Grace and Courtesy, and Practical Life Skills.
Elementary: CBMS's Elementary program includes basic skills in arithmetic and language, but children are encouraged to use these tools to enrich their learning and to explore subjects of their own interest. Concrete materials, similar to those used in the Early Childhood classrooms, are used to teach math and grammar; additional materials are drawn from real life to teach about geography, world cultures, science and human experience.
While every child is required to meet the minimum standards set out by they State, no boundaries are set on the breadth or depth of their study. The Montessori curriculum uses an integrated approach to education and includes: language and literature, mathematics, sciences, geography, environmental studies, art, music, and drama. Montessori described the child at the elementary stage as having unlimited interests in our universe and their place in it. We present students with all subject matter and allow the freedom to explore them in as much depth as they desire.
The unique curriculum challenges the child to look for answers to the questions that arise in the elementary child's mind. They learn what questions must be asked, how to think through problems, how to analyze situations and find answers for themselves. Although learning the right answers may get children through school, learning "how to learn" will get them through life!
Before School and After School Programs:
The activities before and after the school day are designed to furnish some of the experiences children would encounter at home playing with their friends and family. Activities include: Arts and Crafts, Storytelling and Dramatizations, Music and Movement, Group Games, Cooking and Serving Snack, Free Play Outside, Large Motor Skill Development, Social Skills and Moral Values.
Summer Camp:
Country Brook Montessori School summer camp is broken up into sessions throughout the summer. Summer programs are open to children from ages 2 - 9 years. Each of our classes/camps offers limited enrollment - so register early!
The goal of our Toddler and Early Childhood summer classes is to provide a fun extension of their Montessori classroom. The classes can be used for care throughout the summer or for a short session of enrichment.
For our Elementary campers, our summer sessions include a range of fun and stimulating sessions in sports, arts, outdoor education, and academic enrichment. In addition, Elementary campers will enjoy field trips to various locations around town. We occasionally offer "Splash Day" in which all ages can participate in water play.
You may choose to attend any or all the summer sessions. Each session has a special focus or theme allowing you the flexibility to plan an active, exciting, and educational summer for your child.
