The Early Childhood environments at Love of Learning Montessori are mixed age groupings of children aged 3 to 6, offering an academically enriching atmosphere within a supportive social community. Academic subjects adhere to the Montessori standard, including practical life mathematics, language, sensorial, and cultural studies. An emphasis on outdoor education is pivotal to Love of Learning’s founding purpose; students are immersed in the outdoors as a regular aspect of their academic experience.
During this intense period of cognitive, social, and physical development, students spend their time working in what is called the prepared environment– a space equipped with materials for activities and lessons specifically designed to address children’s inherent desire to learn. Students are propelled in their learning by the defined social structure and intellectual atmosphere of the prepared environment. They are free to pick and choose activities that interest them, the youngest members of the class often eager to model what they see the older children doing. Older children encourage and assist younger peers with tasks they have already mastered, building their confidence and self-esteem.
Montessori education also focuses deliberate attention on the importance of a global and multicultural approach to learning. In Early Childhood, our classes hold space to recognize our diverse heritages, and the intersections of many identities that make us unique. We seize opportunities to hold conversations regarding our similarities and differences as people, as learners, and as community members. Our school is made stronger by the conversations held to respect and understand each other as individuals.
The Montessori environment provides a freedom that imbues learners with strong sense of responsibility. Students learn to take good care of materials, appreciate their outdoor environment, be kind to themselves and each other, and respect their teacher. Their shared sense of respect cultivates a sense of safety, allowing them to more deeply engage with academically challenging subjects. Students experience learning as a constructive process, during which they discover the world around them through inquiry, collaboration, and critical thinking.
