Q: What is Montessori?
A: It is a unique teaching method that provides a healthy balance between freedom of choice and structured activity. The prepared learning environment provides a pleasant atmosphere, allowing for the child to explore carefully designed materials. At the Learning Steps Montessori Nursery, we help to stimulate the child's interest and facilitate a joy for learning.
Q: Who is Montessori?
A: Dr. Maria Montessori, an Italian medical doctor, devoted her entire life to the study and education of young children. She prepared a learning environment for children that proved highly beneficial to their growth and aided them in achieving their fullest potential. At the Learning Steps Montessori Nursery, we employ her ground-breaking work.
Q: What makes the Learning Steps Montessori Nursery different from other programs?
A: We have a carefully designed unique facility, a home-away-from-home environment that allows children to become comfortable. Our qualified and experienced staff giving continuity and stability to our children and the community. We believe our incomparable learning experience sets the stage for the leaders and responsible citizens of tomorrow.
Q: After attending your program, will my child adjust to public school?
A: Yes. We prepare children to be independent, self-directed, and confident. No matter where they go, they should do well. We guaranty that our graduates will turn out to be outstanding.
Q: Does your school provide meals?
A: No. Some children have food allergies and others have special dietary restrictions. We feel it is best for the parents to determine their own child's diet.
Q: Do you teach computers to the child?
A: No. In the Montessori Method, we believe in allowing children to be children. Childhood is a special time that can never be replaced. The early years of development will have a profound impact on children's lives. Our emphasis is on children learning first the basics of living, and how to take care of themselves. Then, we instill the basic academic skills children will need later to excel in the technological world.
Q: What should I do if my child cries during the first days of school?
A: It is natural for a child to cry during the first two weeks of school. Your child has developed an attachment to you, and when the child is initially introduced to a new environment, crying may be a natural method of expressing anxiety. The best thing to do is to drop your child off and leave the premises quickly. Once the child feels comfortable, he or she will love coming to school to be with his or her friends.
Q: Why should my child enroll in a Montessori program?
A: The Montessori curriculum provides your child with a strong foundation in the formative years. It will help him or her develops into a well-rounded, responsible, happy and fulfilled person.
Q: What would be a typical day for my child?
A: A typical day at the nursery would include the following:
- Arrival - children greeted warmly at the door by the staff
- Montessori Work
- Outdoor/Indoor Play
- Lunch
- Circle Time
- Art and Craft
- Story Time/Library
- Collection
- During the week we include sessions in Physical Education, Music & Movement
Q: Can I visit the nursery during the day?
A: Of course! Please call to arrange an appointment.
Q: Do the children wear a uniform?
A: No. We encourage children to wear their own comfortable clothes. Please understand that sometimes clothes get dirty during artwork or outside play. Change of clothes should be provided for each child in a zip-lock bag clearly labeled with their name.
Q: Can children bring books, toys etc from home?
A: If a comforting toy is needed to ease the transition to the nursery we are happy for the child to have these until they are settled. We request that children do not bring toys or stuffed animals after they are settled as we have many, many materials here for them.
Q: What holidays do you celebrate?
A: With our student diversity we try to recognize the holidays of many cultures - Birthdays, Ministry declared holidays, Eid, Easter, Christmas, Chinese New Year etc.
Q: My child is in nappies, will she/he still be able to attend?
A: The nursery accepts children in nappies, and the staff will continue with your child’s toilet training in conjunction with the parents. Please provide nappies and an extra set of labeled clothing.
Q: How do I enroll my child in the Learning Steps Montessori Nursery?
A: Call, e-mail to receive an application form, and submit it along with the registration fee.