Montessori’s Third Year
Considering a third year, or a capstone year, for your child in our early childhood program? It’s a great idea! Here’s why…
Montessori’s model was designed for children to remain in the same early childhood classroom environment for three years. Your child remains with the same classroom for three of their most formative years. The teachers know your child and they have a secure and trusting relationship, creating a safe space for learning and risk-taking. The third year students are our leaders. They are role models and teach the younger children (thus firming up their own knowledge as well as honing their social skills). They naturally develop deep relationships in turn providing ample opportunities for conflict resolution and problem-solving. The materials are intended to provide learning opportunities as the child grows and develops over the course of three years. The breadth and depth of the Montessori curriculum goes well beyond the kindergarten curriculum of a typical school. A first-year student might use a continent map as a puzzle; a second year students might identify the continents and oceans, a third-year student might name and record all the names of the European countries. Your child solidifies their own knowledge as they instruct younger children and engage them in lessons and activities. Three years affords the opportunity to work at their own pace. They have spent three years acquiring academic knowledge and developing interpersonal skills.Your child develops self-confidence and leadership skills. They mentor and guide the first and second-year students. They know they are capable, valued members of their classroom community.
We welcome your child to stay for their kindergarten year at Twin Parks!
