Primary — Stockton Montessori School

Primary Program

Ages 3 – 5 Years

The Primary classes serve children starting at age 3 and prepares each child academically and emotionally for an excellent transition to Kindergarten. Our guidelines, schedule and safety measures remain constant, encouraging increased levels of comfort, confidence, and enthusiasm.

This program is carefully crafted to meet each child’s individual needs rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. We take notice of each student's abilities, talents and interests, and encourage children to progress at their own pace in a non-competitive environment. At the same time, we make sure students are challenged daily by lessons and materials designed to meet their needs. Students learn standards of conduct, courtesy, cooperation and self-control. They also gain respect for the rights and opinions of others.

Our goal is to develop students who really understand their schoolwork. Learning is not focused on tote drill and memorization. Students learn through hands-on experience, investigation, and research. They become actively engaged in their studies, rather than passively waiting to be spoon-fed. Montessori children are not afraid of making mistakes because they know how to self-correct and view mistakes as natural steps in the learning process.

Classrooms are large, open spaces, framed by open shelves that display a wide variety of carefully sequenced, hands-on learning activities. Montessori materials encourage thought, exploration and creativity. Classes are mixed-age, family-like environments. Three year olds learn from observing older students and five year olds may lead and mentor their younger peers.

Teachers work to assist the student as they fulfill the basic tasks of developing trust, independence, and self-control. They are there to observe, guide, listen, and foster the natural growth of the child’s personality.

Activities are designed to enhance the physical, emotional, social, and intellectual development of each individual child.

Activities in the Primary Classes focus on the following:

Language and literacy
Handwriting skills
Mathematics
Geography
Natural sciences
Sensory training
The arts (music, drama, art)
Knowledge & understanding of our world
Creative development
Personal & social development
Self motivation & personal responsibility
Physical development
Spanish, Mandarin, French & Japanese (once a week for afternoon students that do not nap)