How is Montessori different from traditional?
You can find a complete comparison on the “What is Montessori?” page.
Why is the Montessori classroom so quiet?
The Montessori classroom is a peaceful and respectful environment where freedom of choice is used to teach independence and promote responsibility. When a child is concentrating on the task at hand their mind is engaged and their hands are productive.
Is Montessori a structured program?
The Montessori program is structured in both the daily routine as well as individual work time. The classroom is carefully designed to appeal to each child’s interests and needs and is arranged in a manner to build independence. Once children understand the purpose of the materials and the lesson to be learned from the material there are many creative extensions.
How does TLC handle discipline?
TLC’s policy is to redirect the child to a different work or area of the classroom. This technique works to distract the child and refocus their interest. In the rare event this does not work the teachers will give options of sitting to calm their body or reading a book. If two children have a conflict they are taken to the peace table where the teacher will help them resolve the conflict by giving them the tools needed to talk to each other.
What can I do at home?
Take your child to the science center, go to the zoo, take a nature walk, or give your child the opportunity for unstructured creative free play outside.
What is the procedure if my child has trouble transitioning to school?
It is normal for your child to go through a 4-6 week adjustment period during his/her transition to a new school. This adjustment period is normal and slowly begins to change as your child gets to know the teachers and the other students. You can help this process by being supportive and just listening to what your child says each day. During this sharing period it is important that you remain neutral and not put forth your feelings or attitudes but to listen patiently for opportunities when you can notice and comment on some small success they had.
Your role in helping your child transition to school is set with a good bye routine. Be consistent and explain it to your child. Example; “I am going to give you two kisses and two hugs then leave but I will be back.” Once you have left the teachers will do their part to help your child adjust to them, the other children and the environment.
I would like to meet with the teachers each month to let them know what I would like my child to study.
The teachers are well trained and spend time observing your child so they can plan your child’s lessons based on the Montessori concept of the sensitive period of learning.
You are welcome to meet with your child’s teacher to discuss their progress.
My child has been in school for 3-4 months and is still in the Practical Life section. I would like him/her to move on to another area of the classroom.
Your child is introduced to many areas of the classroom everyday through circle lessons, working with friends or just observing. With all these opportunities, when your child is ready to move to a different challenge the teachers will know and be ready to introduce the right works.
My child will be 5 after the August 31st deadline to enter Kindergarten, and I feel confident that he/she is ready.
Talk to the school district you live in about early entrance exams. Once your child has taken the exam and passed all areas you may register for TLC’s Kindergarten class. Keep in mind the exam needs to be complete and the results given to TLC prior to the first day of the school year.
How does TLC communicate with parents?
The teachers and office use several methods to keep parents informed. Each child will be given a communication folder the first day of class. This folder goes back and forth between the school and home each day. It contains office, teacher and parent communication as well as your child’s completed materials. Progress reports are sent home twice per school year prior to parent/teacher conferences. Kindergarten-1 students will receive a third progress report at the end of the school year. You may schedule a meeting with teachers anytime you and the teacher think it is necessary. Emails are sent out regularly from the office and teachers. Our goal is to respond before leaving for the day or first thing in the morning. Phone calls are returned before leaving for the day or first thing in the morning.
Definitions of commonly used Montessori terms.
A complete list of terms can be found on our “Montessori Terms” page.
