arrowmontessori

5 Tips for Implementing the Maria Montessori Method

Tue, 01 Aug 2023 05:52:42 GMT

Did you just enroll your child in one of the more than 5,000 Montessori schools scattered throughout the U.S.? Whether they'll be attending a Montessori infant and toddler daycare, a Montessori preschool, or another type of Montessori academy, they'll be in good hands when they're in a Montessori school.

But you don't have to limit your child's Montessori activities to the school day. You can also incorporate the Maria Montessori method into your child's home life, too. Creating a Montessori home for them will work wonders for their overall development.

Here are five tips on implementing the Maria Montessori method at home so that your child is able to lead the Montessori lifestyle at all times.

1. Provide Places for All Your Child's Things

When you walk around in a classroom inside a Montessori school, you'll find that everything in it will have a place. There will be everything from hooks for kids to put their jackets on to trays with toys on them.

Ideally, you should try to set up your own home in this same way. Your child will be more likely to want to put their things away and take better care of them when they know there is a place for everything.

2. Encourage Your Child to Be Independent

When your child is still on the younger side, you might be tempted to try to do almost everything for them. For instance, if they need a fork for dinner, you might be the one to go to the utensil drawer to get it for them.

Why not encourage your child to be more independent by asking them to do these types of tasks? It'll make them feel like they have more independence and give them more confidence in their ability to do things around the house.

3. Let Your Child Help You With Certain Tasks

Many children like to help their parents around the house as often as they can. But parents aren't always all that eager to have their children help them, especially when they're tackling tasks that children might not have mastered just yet.

A big part of teaching your child to be independent and empowering them will be putting them in positions where they're able to do these kinds of tasks. Don't be afraid to let them help with things like preparing snacks or pouring water into cups to drink.

4. Teach Your Child to Be Respectful

A great Montessori school is going to be filled with so much mutual respect. Teachers, students, parents, and others will always be mindful of how they're speaking and acting toward others.

You should take this same approach to being respectful when your child is at home. You should, of course, show respect to your child. But you should also encourage them to be respectful by showing them how to:

Give visitors a warm welcome
Respond when people talk to them
Steer clear of interrupting other people's conversations
There are so many ways you can teach your child how to be respectful on a daily basis.

5. Find Ways to Make Learning Fun for Your Child

One of the best parts about sending your child to a Montessori school is that it'll foster a healthy love for learning. Your child will learn how to be naturally curious about things and take a genuine interest in the world around them.

You should make learning every bit as fun at home as it is at a Montessori school. Don't be shy about reading to (and with!) your kids every chance you get and pushing them to learn in other ways around your house.

Consider Enrolling Your Child in Our Montessori School

Enrolling your child in a Montessori school in San Dimas is one of the best decisions you'll ever make. You'll provide your child with so many skills that they'll be able to use for the rest of their life when they attend a San Dimas preschool that utilizes the Maria Montessori method.

 Arrow Montessori School  is a great place to send your child to get a Montessori education . We'll use Montessori techniques in the classroom with your child and teach you some techniques you can use at home.

Contact us today to get more information on our Montessori school.

Top Five Benefits of a Montessori Climber

Sat, 01 Jul 2023 11:15:17 GMT

Have you spent a lot of time childproofing your home to make it as safe as possible for your toddler? If so, the idea of allowing them to engage in “risky play” might sound like it would be out of the question.

But there is something to be said for letting your young child take part in risky play. It'll allow them to develop important skills they might not be able to develop otherwise without ever putting them in any real danger.

You can encourage risky play in your home by investing in a Montessori climber, which is also known as a Pikler triangle. It's one of the simpler Montessori toys. But you'll find there will be so many benefits of Montessori climbers.

Learn about five of the benefits your toddler will enjoy below.

1. Strengthens Gross Motor Skills

As its name would suggest, a Montessori climber will be designed for your child to climb on and over. While they're climbing on and over it, they'll strengthen their gross motor skills while also strengthening many of the major muscles throughout their bodies.

You'll soon discover that your child will be able to use their arms, hands, fingers, legs, feet, and toes better than they could before. They'll also be much stronger than they once were when they're constantly climbing up over a Montessori climber.

2. Improves Motor Planning Skills

Even though a Montessori climber might seem like it would be simple to conquer, there will be a series of steps your child will have to take to do it. They'll need to do some careful planning if they're going to successfully work their way over the Pikler triangle.

This will subconsciously improve their motor planning skills. They'll start to realize they'll have to plan out their every move to make it up and over the Montessori climber.

3. Teaches Boundaries

There is a very good chance your child isn't going to be able to climb over the Montessori climber on their first try. In fact, it'll probably take them quite a few tries before they come even remotely close to doing it.

You might not think this would be good for your child. But it'll actually teach them to be persistent. It'll also teach them about the boundaries that they have and what they'll need to do to overcome them.

4. Increases Self-Confidence and Self-Esteem

At some point, your child will eventually make it up and over the Montessori climber. You should give them as much time and space as they need to accomplish this goal.

When they finally do it, it'll help fill them with so much self-confidence and self-esteem. They might still be too young to 100% grasp the concept of taking pride in what they've accomplished. But you'll notice a big boost in their self-confidence and self-esteem that'll work wonders for the image they have of themselves.

5. Encourages Imaginative Play

The Montessori climber isn't just for climbing. It can really be used for almost anything your child might want.

For example, they might decide to throw a blanket over the top of it and turn it into a tent for a “camping” trip. You should encourage them to run with an idea like this since it'll help their imagination run wild.

This is just one more benefit that'll come along with investing in a Montessori climber.

Take Advantage of the Benefits of a Montessori Climber

As you can see, a Montessori climber will benefit your child in so many ways. Both their body and their mind will grow strong when you have one in your home. You might also want to consider incorporating other Montessori activities into your child's life. You may even want to think about sending them to a Montessori school.

 Arrow Montessori School  is a wonderful option for those in the San Dimas, CA area . Contact us for more information on our Montessori preschool .

Top 5 Summer Montessori Activities That Promote Learning through Fun

Thu, 01 Jun 2023 11:33:44 GMT

For many people ( around 40% ), summer is the best time of the year! There's something so magical and exciting about the warm weather and endless opportunities for fun activities outside the regular routine.

But it can also be a difficult season for parents. Coming up with new things to do for months can be exhausting! Especially when your focus is on educational activities that promote creativity and imaginative play.

Many parents lean into the Montessori method of learning, which encourages self-driven play that also helps build valuable life skills along the way. Check out these summer Montessori activities you can plan for your kids!

1. Clay Sculpting

A hallmark of a fun summer is getting the opportunity to be messy and creative. Clay sculpting is an easy way to do both of those things at the same time.

Set out a couple of colors of clay and let your child create anything their heart desires. Or provide a simple prompt and see what they come up with! Your child will love using their hands to create all different kinds of masterpieces.

2. Nature Collection

Spending time outside is one of the best ways to incorporate more Montessori activities into your child's summer. Try going on a nature scavenger hunt! You can encourage your child to gather samples of all different elements like leaves, grass, or flowers while playing in the backyard or going on a walk.

They'll be shocked at all the different things they find and gain an appreciation for the outdoors!

3. Insect Matching

One of the main elements of Montessori activities is how they help a child learn about their surroundings.

Create an insect-matching game with bugs they may see while playing outside. This will be a fun game to play but will also give them something to do while outside as well. They can try to locate as many species as possible throughout the season!

4. Mystery Bag

For those times when you need to stay inside, consider creating a mystery sensory bag. Simply put, a surprise item they use every day in a bag. Then the child will try to identify the item simply by feeling it. You can choose harder and harder things as the summer goes on for more of a challenge.

5. Picnic Lunch

Experts say spending time outside is an important aspect of a healthy life. Even having a picnic lunch can make a big difference in your child's wellness.

Make it even more fun by having them help you pick the menu and prepare the food. The more involved they can be, the better!

Best Montessori Activities for the Summer

The best part about all Montessori activities is that they don't require a lot of extra effort for the adults involved! They are designed to encourage the child to lead and drive the play on their own.

Adding a few of these activities to your summer routine will help everyone have the best summer season ever! Our team of Montessori experts loves to help children of all ages learn while having a ton of fun! If you're interested in learning more about our Montessori programs, contact us today!

Montessori Programs: Learnings From Practitioners Around the World

Mon, 01 May 2023 11:40:57 GMT

Despite having been shaping the minds and abilities of children for more than 150 years, Montessori programs still attract praise for their tendency to bring out the best in people.

In fact, famous Montessori alumni today include Taylor Swift, Chelsea Clinton, and the 9-year-old Prince George of Cambridge. The Montessori school delivers results. But how?

Through carefully-honed practices that seek to nurture children of all backgrounds and abilities. Here are some of the top tenets of the Montessori method in practice around the world today.

Developmental Age Grouping

One of the most distinct markers of a Montessori education is the age grouping of classes. Around the world, educators in this method will not group children according to the exact year they were born. Rather, they group children according to their development levels, an approach rooted in science. These grouping typically look like this:

15 months-3 years old.
3-6 years old.
6-9 years old.
9-12 years old.
12-15 years old.
15-18 years old.

This way, children can learn according to where they are in their developmental journey . This ensures that education is targeted and conducive to autonomous learning, for all ages.

Independence is Everything

A mainstay of Montessori schools the world over is the principle of “auto education”. This posits that all children are capable and willing to learn by themselves, as long as educators provide the tools and the inspiration.

This helps children to discover what they are passionate about and where their talents lie. It also teaches responsibility, accountability, and intrinsic learning through self-management.

In education, we believe that the greatest gift you can give your child is lifelong independence.

Play is Work

Take a look at any international Montessori curriculum, and you'll quickly see that structured games and toys play a vital role.

This goes back to the very origins of the method, with founder Maria Montessori famously saying that “play is the work of the child”.

Again, the point here is to make learning engaging and fun and encourage children to carve their own paths and do what they do best.

An Environment to Thrive In

The way that the classroom environment is structured is absolutely vital to the Montessori method. In fact, step into any Montessori classroom in the world, and you're likely to find some striking similarities. For one, order and minimalism are the key themes.

The goal is to create an environment that does not overstimulate the child, where they can focus on the task at hand. This means that walls have minimal decorations and are often painted in neutral tones.

Meanwhile, any artwork that is on display will always be at the eye level of the children. Finally, the classroom will always be separated into distinct “learning areas” for different types of activities.

Our Montessori Programs Are Shaped By Experience

At our San Dimas preschool, your child can experience world-class Montessori programs shaped by the vast experience of our educators.

We offer an environment where your child is primed to thrive, to ask questions, and to follow their passions to become a leader, rather than a follower.If you'd like to learn more about how we can empower your child, do not hesitate to get in touch with our friendly team today.

How Montessori Schools Foster Emotional Development

Sat, 01 Apr 2023 11:52:58 GMT

Kindergarten and preschool classes around the world use child-sized desks and chairs. The idea of child-sized furniture was the brainchild of Maria Montessori. She developed the Montessori school of thought. Read more about the history of the Montessori method here.

Montessori schools are known for fostering emotional development among students. Read on to learn how your child can enjoy developments that last a lifetime.

Emotional Intelligence through Grace and Courtesy

The Montessori method is based on the principle of courtesy and grace. This philosophy focuses on teaching children to learn social norms and how to be polite.

Montessori teachers at our school teach through behavior modeling. Older students are taught and expected to set examples for students in the classroom. This is because children are eager to copy the behavior of adults and older kids.

Teaching manners is an important aspect of promoting development among our students.

Building Maturity Starts in the Classroom

Montessori activities are designed to help students become more mature. Our teachers allow children the opportunity to discover at their own pace.

Our pre-K learning environments encourage independent thought. They offer the chance to create fun and playful learning experiences.

Building Emotional Intelligence Through Activities

Emotional intelligence is a central focus of our educational programs. Montessori schools cultivate emotional intelligence through structured interactions and activities. The relationships between teachers and students are important.

When a student fulfills a constructive activity, that success satisfies their inner needs. This creates a sense of joy and encourages the child to complete more tasks.

More knowledge and skills mean students are more comfortable. We believe this sets our school apart from others.

Emotional Development Through Self-Direction

Montessori classrooms give students the freedom to direct their own studies. This gives them the opportunity to engage in self-governance. Self-governance is a crucial aspect of emotional development.

The idea is not to simply dole out rewards and punishments. Montessori teachers encourage internal motivation. This helps our students develop a lifetime of emotional intelligence.

Developing Concentration

Our Montessori academy education emphasizes learning side by side. This is true even for our youngest students. This style of learning helps students develop concentration skills.

Mixed Age Groups

Our classrooms contain a mix of ages. This has proven to help by letting older peers aid younger students. At our school, parents will see older students happily helping younger classmates.

This process helps Montessori school San Dimas children learn social norms. As the students grow, they naturally help one another. This also adds to the comfort students feel.

Schedule Your Montessori School Consultation Today

Are you ready to learn about our Montessori school ? Emotional intelligence is critical to our teachers. Our teachers are here to help your child grow socially through proven methods. As mentioned earlier, our students work with different age groups. This helps them grow emotionally.

Please contact us online . Enrollments are filling up, so don't delay! Once you reach out, a team member will be in touch shortly.

How to Help Your Child Succeed With Montessori Learning

Wed, 01 Mar 2023 11:57:10 GMT

At Arrow Montessori School, we occasionally ask new parents to think about a memory from their early education. Often, a smile spreads across their face as they recall a self-directed, interest-driven project or accomplishment that taught them something about who they are.

In our San Dimas classrooms, we strive to recreate that joy in our students every day.

New Montessori parents often have questions about how to support their child as they embark on their journey of individualized Montessori learning. We recognize this can be difficult if your only frame of reference is traditional school. Montessori success is sometimes as simple as stepping back and trusting that your unique, brilliant child knows what they need.

We've created this guide to help parents understand how to help their children thrive at our Montessori preschool, elementary, or middle school. Read on to learn how to become an effective member of your child's team.

Encourage Independence

When parents visit our classrooms to observe their child, they often remark that their child “isn't this responsible at home!” Our question to you is: why not? You can support and encourage your child by giving them more age-appropriate responsibilities at home, from cleanup to food preparation.

Stand Back and Observe

In many classrooms, the teacher is “the sage on the stage.” In a Montessori program, teachers are observers and collaborators.

When adults demonstrate trust and confidence in children, they're more likely to make decisions without seeking affirmation . Uninhibited children tend to be more creative, better problem solvers, and strong critical thinkers. They recognize their thoughts have value at every age.

Next time your instinct is to jump in and “help” your child, step back instead. Let them experiment and learn to trust their agency and ideas.

Stick to Routines

Classroom routines help scaffold student success in the Montessori classroom. A consistent structure allows room for play and risk-taking, as children feel safe and know what's coming next. Stick to routines in your home to help keep little ones on track.

Do Your Research

Children are more likely to succeed when they understand the purpose behind a task. We believe the same is true for adults. If you have a question about what's going on in the classroom, ask your child's teacher—or, better yet, ask your child!

It's easier to enter these conversations with context and understanding. Read up on the Montessori method, or come observe a day of school. You can also browse the parent resources on our website as a starting point.

You Are the Key to Success in Montessori Learning

In the Montessori learning style , we always strive to meet children where they are. You can do the same by learning to observe and listen to your child rather than projecting high-stakes expectations. When you make room for joy and exploration, your child will surely thrive. Respectful, individualized learning is the norm at  Arrow Montessori School  . Infants through middle schoolers gain the time and space to grow and pursue their unique desires. Schedule a tour and see what the Montessori method looks like in action.

Identifying the Benefits of Montessori Preschool Education

Sun, 01 Jan 2023 12:11:53 GMT

The Maria Montessori method has been adopted by over 22,000 schools worldwide . Dr. Maria Montessori created this method that puts a focus on early education enrichment.

A Montessori preschool offers your child an education and a flexible learning structure. This lets students work at their own pace while still completing all their schoolwork.

Keep reading to find out more about the benefits a Montessori preschool education can offer your child.

The Key Developmental Stage

The Montessori method became popular in 1909. This method is based on the concept that children will make extraordinary progress if given the opportunity to learn using:

Self-directed activity
Discovery learning
Interactive play

With this method, educators guide children to make discoveries by themselves. This allows students to make creative choices and work on problem-solving. As the child ages and moves into the next developmental stage , the activities and learning opportunities adapt to match their current stage.

Promotes Academic Success

Through the Montessori method, children find a learning method that works for them. Instead of teaching every child in the same manner, the education focuses on your child's needs.

This leads to adolescents and adults that know how to approach learning in a manner that works for them. By allowing children to find out what works for them early on, you'll be setting them up for success in the future. How many times have we seen people reach the university level only for them to fail because they never really learned how to study?

This method focuses on the overall learning experience, which leads to academic success.

Fosters Independence, Creativity, and Self-Control

Montessori schools allow children to make independent decisions and puzzle through problems. While there is guidance, children are encouraged to work with a problem until they find a solution.

Learning through discovery leads children to be more independent. This also leads children to have more creative solutions to everyday problems. By fostering a child’s natural curiosity, you allow them to discover the world at their own pace.

This form of education also fosters self-control and discipline.

Children are encouraged to work together to solve problems. This helps them examine their work together and helps them work as a team.

This also helps children get better at learning from their mistakes as they aren't pointed out negatively. Instead, respect for each other is emphasized in the learning process. Students learn together, which fosters emotional growth.

Consider Enrolling Your Child at a Montessori Preschool

It's important to start thinking about your child's education early on. By choosing a Montessori school, you're not only setting your child up for success. So let your child explore and learn through hands-on activities at a San Dimas preschool.

If you're ready to get your child started at a Montessori preschool, feel free to contact us today . At  Arrow Montessori School  , we offer infant and toddler daycare year-round.

The Importance of Infant and Toddler Daycare

Thu, 01 Dec 2022 12:15:22 GMT

Did you know that the toddler's brain works twice as fas t as adults? Not only are they active but flexible as well. Their brains have more connections per brain cells than those of adults.

If you'd like your infant or toddler to reach their full potential, then an infant and toddler daycare might be right for them. What are the benefits of signing your child up for one, though?

It can feel difficult to decide whether or not to send your child to daycare, but it doesn't have to be. Read this guide on the benefits of infant and toddler daycare today!

Social and Emotional Intelligence

Through a Montessori school, your child will get to develop skills such as cooperation and sharing. They'll develop skills and make friends along the way. Children get to practice their social and cognitive skills, from teamwork to problem-solving.

Through the Maria Montessori method, children will be in a safe and supportive environment that allows them to explore and learn while preventing separation anxiety.

Consistency

Children will learn consistency at the Montessori School San Dimas through the program. Stability and structure will allow children to learn and grow.

Children can anticipate and predict what's next. Predictability allows them to feel more confident in their lives.

Independence

The Montessori Academy prides itself on fostering independence for your child. Through independent learning, children learn confidence and can be autonomous with projects. These projects will allow your child to build independence and feel more confident overall.

Improved Health

A Montessori Preschool and Daycare will encourage positive eating habits in your child. Daycares expose your child to various healthy foods and drinks. Children will learn what’s good for them through healthy eating and cooking.

Preschools and daycares also encourage playtime, which fosters exercise. Exercise is good for cardiovascular health. While playing with other children, they'll also strengthen their immune systems.

Ready for Kindergarten

Your child will be ahead and could be ready for kindergarten. They'll understand consistency, how schools work, and will be able to sit in class and learn. Children will already be used to going to school each day and meeting other kids.

The Benefits of a Montessori Daycare

The Montessori method focuses on everyday activities to improve motor and language skills. Children may learn to read and comprehend math sooner than in traditional daycares.

Learning is hands-on to increase focus and fun. Montessori daycares are focused on each child and their individual needs instead of the entire classroom.

Children can learn and grow based on their needs and learning styles. They'll learn to complete self-guided tasks and have caretakers available for guidance and safety.

The Benefits of Infant and Toddler Daycare

This guide provides you with a brief overview of the benefits of infant and toddler daycare. Your child can learn and grow through a safe program at their own pace, getting ready for the school years.

Are you ready to get started with a well-developed and respected educational program for children? Then, contact us today!

We're located right in San Dimas and follow the Montessori Method . If you have any questions, we're happy to help.

Montessori School vs. Traditional Schools: Which is Best for Your Child?

Tue, 01 Nov 2022 12:25:34 GMT

Over 22,000 schools worldwide use the Maria Montessori method. This is an alternative teaching method developed by Italian educator Dr. Maria Montessori. It focuses heavily on early education enrichment.

You're probably wondering if a Montessori school would be a good choice for your children. If so, read on. You'll learn how a Montessori preschool can differ from a traditional one.

Flexible Learning Structure

A traditional school is strictly ordered. Students' ages determine their grade level. They can only spend so much time on a lesson.

Essentially, all students must work at the same place. However, every student is different. Some may struggle with certain lessons, while others may not.

A Montessori academy allows students to work at their natural paces. The learning environment is adapted around this.

Learning Through Play

A teacher guides students in a traditional environment. He or she stands at the front of a classroom and instructs the students on what to do. This isn't the case at a Montessori school.

Dr. Montessori believed that children only needed a little guidance. Beyond that, they could educate themselves. So the teacher acts more like a facilitator rather than a lecturer.

The students mostly learn and explore for themselves through play activities. Teachers model learning activities and divert inappropriate behavior, but that's mostly it.

Internal Sense of Accomplishment

Rewarding perfection is a major component of traditional schools. It's also believed that students will gain validation from external sources. These include praise and good grades.

Montessori schools understand that human beings are not perfect. They teach students that mistakes are learning opportunities. They help them not feel embarrassed if they make mistakes.

Also, instead of grades, students gain an internal sense of pride from their accomplishments. They recognize when they've accomplished something themselves. Something or someone else has no part in this realization.

Prepared Environment

You'll also notice a difference in the environment of a Montessori infant and toddler daycare. Rooms have soft colors that aren't distracting and natural lighting. Also, students can always access all learning materials.

Also, teachers respect students' individual choices. Students who prefer to work alone can do so in prepared quiet corners. In a traditional school, students would be forced to work in groups.

Montessori schools also have different learning materials. Traditional schools use tools like worksheets and/or textbooks. Montessori environments have special materials that engage all five senses at once.

We're the Best Montessori School San Dimas Offers

Children have their own methods of learning. Teachers should respect that individuality. This will foster incredible levels of learning.

If you're looking for the best Montessori school San Dimas Offers, try us. We offer San Dimas preschool, elementary, and middle school programs. All of them utilize Montessori principles. Do you want more information? If so, fill out the form on this page. One of our coordinators will get back to you ASAP.

3 Tips for Preparing Your Child for Montessori Preschool

Sat, 01 Oct 2022 12:29:34 GMT

Montessori preschools have become exceptionally popular and for good reason. Montessori preschools are different from traditional infant and toddler daycare. The Montessori education style allows children to learn and work at their own pace and follow their own interests.

This system removes the stress and pressure of standardized programs, which contributes to its success in improving cognitive development and motivating creative minds at a young age.

If your child is getting ready to start at a Montessori preschool, there are some strategies you can use to help make their transition smooth and easy. Keep reading to learn three tips for preparing your child for Montessori school.

1. Start By Creating a Montessori Home

The best way to prepare your child for Montessori preschool is by creating a Montessori home. By creating a Montessori environment in your home, your child will become accustomed to the lifestyle. They will learn to be independent and explore safely and with respect. By the time it's time for preschool, they are more than ready for success.

Some simple ways to create a Montessori home include creating a child-friendly environment and letting your child roam freely. To make sure your home is safe and child-friendly, go through the house as if you were a child. See it from their eyes and perspective.

Then, remove or put items out of reach that may be harmful. Add child-size furniture and open shelves that are placed at their level so they can see and easily use items of their desire. This also helps them learn organizational skills.

Add stools in the kitchen and bathrooms so they can reach the counters and learn to conduct activities on their own.

The most important thing is to let your children care for themselves and be independent. You can even let them help with chores and daily tasks.

2. Model and Teach Respectful Behaviors

A large part of the Montessori school system is an environment of respect. We show our students respect and we expect them to show respect for their classmates and teachers. A great way to prepare your child for this is to model respectful behavior at home.

Greet your child as you would an adult. Use manners with them like please and thank you. Respect their preferences and opinions. And, of course, teach your child to do the same.

Your child will pick up on these habits and understand the social norm on their own, but it's also important to talk to them about why we use respectful behaviors and what those entail.

3. Teach Teamwork and Collaboration

While independent learning is a large part of the Montessori academy, we also teach and engage in group activities and collaborative learning. So, if you want to prepare your child for success at our Montessori preschool, you can start by including them in family tasks and group activities.

Teach your child that they are an important part of the family team which means they have their own roles and duties to follow. You can allow them to help with group chores (helping to fold their own laundry, setting the table, etc.). You can also implement group activities and games that use teams.

When asked and respected within these collaborative tasks, children enjoy helping and are proud of the part they contribute. Be patient and you're sure to have success.

Ready to Start Montessori Preschool?

With these three strategies, your child will be more than ready to begin Montessori preschool!

Check out our preschool program including how we teach various academic areas and practical life skills. If your child is not already signed up, contact us today to learn more and get started.

Reasons Your Child Will Enjoy a Montessori School

Thu, 01 Sep 2022 02:38:28 GMT

Did you know that there are more than 5,000 Montessori schools in the United States?

Students who receive a Montessori education are ready for a fulfilling life that continues after they graduate. Each child receives an education according to their own learning preferences and personality.

Because they can design their own educational experience, students love school! Plus, they develop a long-lasting passion for learning information. Here are some more reasons why your child will enjoy attending a Montessori school in San Dimas!

Self-Motivation

Self-motivation is encouraged in the Montessori classroom .

Students are encouraged to take charge of their education. This gets done through the design of the classrooms and the curriculum. Teachers set guidelines, but it is up to the student to choose what and how they want to learn.

The students are responsible for their own knowledge because of this. As a result, children learn to be self-motivated and enjoy reaching their goals in the classroom.

Close Relationships

Over the course of their Montessori academy education, children grow in the classroom. They come to understand that they are a part of a community where everyone contributes.

Children practice independence , but they also get the chance to collaborate with their friends and classmates.

Critical Thinking

Students are encouraged to self-regulate in the Montessori classroom.

Students develop critical thinking skills when in an environment that values independence. They don't approach test preparation in the same way.

In actuality, tests are not the primary motivator in Montessori. Students reflect on what they are learning and retain it.

This is because there isn't a focus on testing but rather on retaining knowledge that is attributed to life skills. They learn how to enjoy critical thinking and problem-solving on their own.

Unique Learning Environment

As soon as you walk into a classroom, you can tell the difference between Montessori education and one from a typical public school.

Instead of having rows of desks, the classrooms feature “stations.” These are set up around the space where students can choose to work on anything alone or in groups. Without a strict curriculum or assessments, the teachers mentor students as they learn.

Additionally, there isn't a strong focus on incentives or penalties. The Montessori method places more emphasis on the kids' hands-on learning, problem-solving skills, and teamwork skills.

Open Curriculum

The option for each student to learn at their own pace is available within a Montessori education. Each child is unique and shouldn't be expected to have the same learning preferences, according to the Montessori educational philosophy.

Within reasonable bounds, Montessori students are free to decide what and how they wish to learn. They can feel assured in their talents and avoid developing bitterness toward school as a result.

Enroll Your Child In a Montessori School In San Dimas

The environment for learning that a Montessori education provides is not present in other schools. Students who receive a Montessori education are able to collaborate well with others and have a hunger for knowledge that lasts their entire lives. They are self-motivated and independent thinkers because they practiced independent thought from a young age.

Are you ready to enroll your child in a Montessori school in San Dimas ? Click here to learn more about our top-rated private school!

10 Fun After School Activities for Kids

Mon, 01 Aug 2022 02:55:40 GMT

It's no secret that kids need constant stimulation. Your school-age children are hard at work building their skills for the future and growing their brains. It's at this stage where they develop emotionally, physically, as well as intellectually.

This means that your kids need to continue learning even when they aren't in class. After school activities for kids are imperative to their intellectual growth and one of the biggest assets you could offer your children.

Let's take a moment to go over several fun after-school activities for your kiddos!

1. Sensory Containers

One of the best ways to build a child's imagination is by giving them sensory objects. These are objects that promote the use of different senses. Sensory containers are simply containers filled with different materials that excite children's senses, they can be filled with dry food (think pasta, beans, rice, etc) , different organic material, water, and whatever else you can think of.

2. Dress-up Promotes Imagination

Dress-up is the key to building up a child's imagination and allowing them to learn to create. This allows children to step into their own worlds and grow their own stories. Host a little runway at home! Give your child different options to dress up in and allow your child to explore their creativity with clothes.

3. Craft a Story

Help children express themselves by assisting them in storytelling. Document (or help your child write down) whatever it is that their little minds possess. You'll be surprised to see what their little brains build.

4. Finger Painting

Get your hands dirty and promote self-expression. Children can learn a great deal from finger painting such as how to mix colors.

5. Scavenger Hunts

Build up a scavenger hunt that requires them to use their thinking caps. Scavenger hunts give your children the chance to problem solve. Your little adventurer will love to find the activity you've thrown together.

6. Collect Nature Objects

Go outside and see what the world has to offer. Pick up sticks, stones, and leaves to discuss further . Where do these items come from and what can be done with them?

7. Have a Dance Party

Get some of that pent-up energy out of their systems! Promote movement and expression by putting on some music and reminding your child how to move to the beat. Dance is a form of self expression, thus allowing your child to explore different types of communication.

8. Film a Homemade Movie

Prep your child to be a director one day. Pull out your cell phone and help your child to craft the story they want to tell. This is a fun bonding activity as you can both look back at the videos you made and have a good laugh.

9. An Assisted Snack

Help your child to make their own snack when they're hungry. Spreading peanut butter and jelly on crackers gets their fine motor skills working! Strengthen small hands with these fun and tasty treats.

10. Prepare Dinner Together

Have your little one help you in the kitchen . There are plenty of skills that come along with making dinner. Show your child how to be independent by mixing together the ingredients and waiting for them to finish in the oven.

After School Activities for Kids Are Beneficial

Watch your kids grow and learn with these different extracurricular activities. When you find after school activities for kids you allow children to grow their skills and prepare to be well-rounded adults in the future.

Find those creative activities for kids that allow your children to advance and grow. Want to find out more about Montessori teaching methods? Let us provide you with the information you and your kids need.

Infant and Toddler Daycare: How Much Does Infant Daycare Cost?

Fri, 01 Jul 2022 03:02:13 GMT

In 2019, at least 59% of children were in some form of childcare. Infant and toddler daycare is necessary for some parents, but the cost can be prohibitive.

Depending on where you live, the cost of infant and toddler daycare may be cheaper or more expensive than in other areas. Choosing the right daycare place can be a tricky business, and the cost of child care can be an essential factor.

Here are some things to keep in mind when choosing an infant and toddler daycare for your family.

How Much Will You Spend on Childcare

It's one thing to decide you want to spend $50 per month on infant and toddler daycare, but what if you want to spend $500 per month? Or $1,000 per month? How do you know what type of daycare is right for you and your family?

The best way to find out is to start shopping. Get in touch with local daycare providers or montessori preschool daycare providers in your area to find out what daycare options are available.

Availability in Your Area

The availability of child care in your area can also affect the cost of infant and toddler daycare. Some areas have an abundance of licensed child care, while others have little to none.

If you're unsure where to start checking for the options in your area, you can search the internet.

Or you could ask other parents you know or come in contact with daily. Checking availability can help you compare daycare costs because the cost of raising children is expensive.

The Development Level of Your Child(ren)

The level of development that your child(ren) is on can also drive up the cost of infant and toddler daycare. The average age of kids entering formal daycare is around six years old.

This means many kids will be on the cusp of crawling, walking, talking, and doing math. Some kids will start to read at a younger age, which can also delay the start of formal daycare.

These are all things to consider when deciding where to begin looking for child care.

Infant and Toddler Care Fees

Many providers charge a monthly fee for infant care instead of per-visit fees, which are typically more expensive. Also, some providers charge a flat rate for all kids in their montessori academy, while others offer a discounted rate for kids on a particular schedule.

These are just a few things to remember when shopping around for an infant montessori school.

Factors That Increase the Cost of Infant and Toddler Daycare

The bottom line is that infant and toddler daycare can be costly, whether you have one or more children attending. You'll likely spend more on child care than you would on tuition and fees for your child's school.

However, it's one of the most important investments you can make that will be great for everyone in your family. If you and your spouse are happy in your relationship, there will be less stress on both of you.

More importantly, there will also be less stress on the kids! Contact Arrow Montessori School to find out more about our Montessori daycare for infants.

A Brief History of the Montessori Method

Wed, 01 Jun 2022 03:08:10 GMT

The Montessori method is proven to be beneficial in children's early development. In fact, notable people like Amazon founder Jeff Bezos got their early education at Montessori schools.

Do you think your child may benefit from attending a Montessori school? If so, then keep reading to learn more about the history of this technique for childhood education and how it can enrich your child's learning experience.

Early Beginnings: The Maria Montessori Method

The founder and namesake of this teaching method was Italian native, Maria Montessori. She was born in the town of Chiaravalle on August 31, 1870.

Her family moved to Rome shortly after. She would remain there into her early adulthood. In 1890, she enrolled at the University of Rome where she studied physics, mathematics, and natural sciences.

Soon after getting her undergraduate degree, Dr. Montessori began medical school. By 1896, she became among one of the first women in Italy to earn a doctorate.

Dr. Montessori spent the next decade furthering her education, working, and engaging in original research. Then, in 1907, she opened her first Children's House.

Shortly after in 1909, Dr. Montessori made her educational process into a book titled The Montessori Education. This publication was the catalyst that inspired educators across the world to adopt her teaching methods.

Montessori Comes to America

Dr. Montessori and The Montessori Education made a big impression in the United States in the early 1900s.

But, in 1914, William Heard Kilpatrick, a teacher himself, wrote The Montessori System Examined. In the publication, Kilpatrick heavily criticized Dr. Montessori's system of education. As a result, there were practically no Montessori schools left in the United States by the 1920s.

The Montessori method made a comeback in the 1950s thanks to the efforts of New York educator Dr. Nancy McCormick Rambusch. Since then, there has been a renewed intrigue in Montessori education. In fact, the number of Montessori schools has grown by 500 percent nationwide since the 1970s.

The State of the Montessori Method Today

The current state of the Montessori classroom remains centered around children's individual educational interests. It uses the latest findings on childhood development to make sure that each child's education is appropriate for their level of development. Today, children can start their early education at a Montessori preschool and continue their education up until eighth grade.

Notable People Educated at Montessori Schools

Notable people such as Jeff Bezos, Larry Page and Sergey Brin, who are the founders of Google, received their early education at a Montessori school. In fact, Brin credits his and Page's success to their Montessori education.

The Future of Montessori School

Do you think your child will enjoy the Montessori method? You can see for yourself how this educational system works by arranging a visit to see Arrow Montessori School . At  Arrow Montessori School  in San Dimas , we offer a variety of services including infant and toddler daycare. Contact us today to find out more about our school!

How to Choose the Best Montessori Preschool for Your Child

Sun, 01 May 2022 03:14:47 GMT

Choosing the preschool your child will attend can be stressful when trying to make the right decision. Luckily we have all of the factors you should be checking for when searching for the best Montessori preschool. Let’s get right into it!

If possible you should try to observe the class. Observing a class can show you firsthand the interaction between the students and teachers, and students with students.

When observing the interactions, note how the teacher talks to the students. It should be with a calm and respected voice. The teacher should be talking to the students one on one versus as a whole group.

Make sure there is an adequate amount of self-directed play, outdoor play, and time together for meals or songs. If observing the class isn't allowed then look elsewhere. This will be a red flag that there could be something the school doesn't want to see.

Mixed Ages

Montessori classrooms will have mixed age ranges compared to typical schools. This invites older students to learn and assist the younger students and the younger students to learn from the older ones. It is a very valuable experience for all children.

Layout and Decor

Observe if the classroom setup is clean and organized. Check to see if the toys are age-appropriate, the workstations are varied and at eye level, and if it is decorated with natural materials, wood, and plants.

Montessori classrooms will most likely not use bright or vivid colors. Bright and vivid colors can be over-stimulating for small children. The environment should be inviting with plenty of floor space and tables for children to work and play.

Logistics

As a parent, knowing some of the logistics of the school you will send your child to is important. Some things you want to look out for are the teacher turnover rate, how long has the head of the school been in the position, the training of all staff, and if the school is accredited as a Montessori school or not.

Having a low teacher turnover rate can ensure that the school treats its teachers well and that current parents and students are satisfied. Knowing the training the teachers receive is important to make sure they stay up to date with best practices.

Best Preschool

Montessori schools are more and more popular so keep our guide in mind. By considering these tips, choosing the best Montessori preschool for your child will be a breeze. If you have questions or would like to know more about our Montessori preschool at  Arrow Montessori School  then contact us here.

Preschool vs Daycare: What Are the Differences?

Tue, 12 Apr 2022 03:23:14 GMT

Did you know that early childhood education can have lifelong benefits for your young ones? From helping them develop social skills and self-esteem to providing them with critical academic foundations, enrolling your child in an age-appropriate program can positively impact their lives.

So, if you think the time has come for your children to dive into early education, you've come to the right place. This guide will explore the differences between preschool vs. daycare to help you decide the best fit for your family. Keep reading for all you need to know!

What Is Preschool?

Preschool can be a fantastic option for you and your family if you are looking for a school-like program that prepares your young ones for the rest of their academic lives. A preschool will prioritize your child's development and education, giving them:

Academic skills
Social skills
Problem-solving skills

Most preschools are open for children between the ages of 2 to 6. Because they work similarly to other school programs, classrooms are closed during holidays and vacation periods, and children only attend preschool for a few hours per day.

There are many different approaches to preschool education, making it easy to find the right one for your family. For example, you might prefer to enroll your child in a religious school that mixes education with your personal beliefs. Or, you might be more interested in sending them to a Montessori program, like Arrow Montessori, where their desire to learn and overall curiosity are the priority.

What Is Daycare?

Unlike preschool, daycares do not prioritize development and education. Instead, daycares exist to keep children active and cared for while their parents are not looking after them.

A daycare can be a fantastic option if you have a younger child. Daycares typically accept children of all ages, including babies only a few weeks old!

Unlike a preschool, daycares operate for longer hours and are often open during weekends and holidays. This makes daycare an excellent option for parents who work and don't have access to childcare at their jobs or homes.

Daycare programs provide a relaxed environment for children with professional adult supervision and care. If you choose to send your child to a daycare, you can expect them to enjoy:

Free-play time
Naps
Fun activities

Although daycare does not provide the same formal learning environment as preschool, it could still be a good option for your family.

Choosing Between Preschool Vs. Daycare

Now that you know all about the differences between preschool vs. daycare, it'll be easier to decide where to enroll your children. Choosing a preschool is the best option for you if you are looking for an institution that prioritizes development and education. However, daycare is the way to go if you prefer a more relaxed environment where your children can play and relax with adult supervision.

Ready to enroll your children in a preschool or daycare ? Contact us today to learn why  Arrow Montessori School  could be the best fit!

How a STEM Summer Program Can Benefit Your Child for the Future

Tue, 01 Mar 2022 03:28:14 GMT

STEM jobs - those focusing on science, technology, engineering, and math - continue their fast-paced growth . A STEM summer program brings so many benefits outside of academics. Summer camp helps pass the time and eases the boredom of summer.

Summer camp improves your child's academic standing, gets a jump start on future job opportunities, and even learns social skills.

Here's how a STEM summer program can help your child's educational growth.

A STEM Summer Program Will Improve Grades

During the school year, many kids simply don't get the academic challenges in the classroom needed to succeed. In some cases, school work is easy. A Montessori school summer camp can give them the STEM education they need.

Your child will learn advanced STEM skills with science programs and tech programs, preparing them for the upcoming school year. Your child could qualify for advanced placement classes with a better grasp of math and science.

Private learning, such as a Montessori school, often has better access to higher-quality learning tools and techniques. Your child will see long-term benefits with higher test scores, access to better secondary education, and even scholarships.

Explore Job Opportunities

A Montessori STEM summer program allows kids to explore future job opportunities. Many kids don't realize all of the options out there until they talk with real professionals!

Summer campers can see first-hand how science programs and tech programs can be applied to future employment. For example, your child may love solving math problems but may not realize how it applies to manufacturing, food production or even space travel!

Discovering new careers is a big part of growing up and summer camp. When kids are young, they have a chance to develop a passion for their interests, which can help them leap into their future.

Social Skills

Summer camp will help your child learn social skills such as collaborating with others, communication skills and help boost their confidence.

Kids will work in small groups on their STEM skills and talk with others who share their interests. Developing lifelong friendships is part of the process!

Communication skills are essential - both written and spoken - regardless of their future career field. Summer camp helps your child express themself and helps them overcome their fears.

Many kids may not be sure of themselves before attending a summer camp. They might feel isolated with their knowledge of science and technology. However, summer camp can be a big confidence booster.

Summer camp can help kids get out of their comfort zone and improve their overall well-being.

STEM Summer Program Advantages

When your child enrolls in a STEM summer program, they'll advance academically, discover new career paths, and polish their social skills. You are giving them a head start in life's most needed time! You are making a lasting investment in their future for just a small price.

Don't delay. Sign up for a STEM summer program today. Give them the tools and skills necessary to excel in the future!

What to Consider When Choosing Montessori Schools

Tue, 01 Feb 2022 03:31:14 GMT

Apart from their homes, youngsters spend the majority of their time in school. But they benefit from a pleasant school environment in a variety of ways. If the school is not suitable for your kid, they may face the consequences.

As a result, selecting the ideal Montessori school is critical. But knowing what to look for might be difficult.

Use these suggestions to choose a Montessori school if you would like to make the best selection for you and your child.

School Values

When choosing a school for your kids, you must consider whether they have a strong culture and dedicated teachers who can influence student performance. A good school should have a healthy culture that allows teachers to connect more with students.

At Arrow Montessori School , a teacher is more of a guide than a leader. As a result, students can engage in activities with each other and with their teacher.

Extracurricular Activities

Extracurricular activities usually have a huge impact on learners' lives. Thus, you need to be sure that a school provides activities such as sports, music, and club activities.

Co-curricular activities help learners explore their interests and bond with other students. Arrow Montessori School in San Dimas has several extracurricular activities that include swimming, gardening, nature hiking, etc.

Safety and Security

You probably want an infant and toddler daycare that will guarantee the safety of your kids. Thus, determine how they handle upsets, bullying, or any other sort of safety issue.

When you bring your kids to Montessori preschool, you are assured that your kids will be safe. We make sure our school is secure by:

Conducting background checks to all staff members
Keeping school facility locked
Allowing only visitors with an appointment
Dismissing children to parents or authorized person
We are always prepared to keep your kids safe and secure.

School Curriculum

Do you want your kids to have a strong academic foundation? Thus, you must ensure that the curriculum offered by the school is child-centric. Class activities should thus help students perform well academically and instill them with necessary life skills.

Our preschool curriculum is an innovative learning framework that incorporates the Maria Montessori method of learning that aligns with your kid's development needs and interests.

Behavior Policy

You must ensure that the school has vital children's character development programs. Thus, you need to be sure the school can shape students into responsible citizens.

 Arrow Montessori School  of San Dimas focuses on the self-discipline of the students. Students are encouraged to choose the correct behavior, be independent, and do the right things.

Choose Montessori School for Your Kids

Choosing a school for your kids is an important decision that will shape who they will become in the future. Thus, you must consider all important factors to ensure that the school has the right approach to help students explore their abilities.

At Arrow Montessori School of San Dimas, we offer various services: infant and toddler daycare, junior high programs, and after-school daycare for infants. We are open all year round. Our aim is to be the best school and childcare service in the San Dimas area.

Contact us today to find out more about our School!

The Rising Popularity of the Montessori School

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 03:41:31 GMT

Across the USA and the rest of the world, the popularity of Montessori schools is exploding! The number of Montessori schools in the United States has grown by more than 500% since the 1970s.

Maybe you've heard about some of these benefits already. You might be considering sending your child to a Montessori academy.

Read on for some helpful information on this revolutionary education system. We can help you understand how the system works and give you the knowledge you need to make the right decision for your family.

Child-Led Activities

The main characteristic that sets Montessori apart from other kinds of education is that children's desires are put at the forefront of this system.

Instead of being forced into a rigid schedule, children are given more freedom to choose from a range of engaging activities. This doesn't mean they're running around in a chaotic environment. Instead, children are guided through a choice of educational activities.

Proven Benefits of the Montessori School

Studies indicate that the Maria Montessori method is packed with benefits. Especially in comparison to more conventional schools.

Montessori-educated kids consistently outperform their traditionally educated peers. They demonstrate strong advantages in everything from arithmetic to creativity.

With benefits like that, it's hardly a surprise that Montessori's popularity is growing so quickly.

Happy Kids

Take a quick look around the average Montessori school, and you'll notice a lot of smiles.

The Montessori approach allows children to focus on the things that they want to do, all while learning and developing their social skills.

Obviously, you want to know your child is enjoying their educational experience. Seeing them come home from school with a big smile on their face is sure to brighten up your day. But it's important to remember that happy kids are the best learners, so all this fun is also serving to help your child develop.

Professional Standards

Montessori schools put children at the center of their practice. But they still operate with the same professionalism as other schools.

Our teachers and classroom assistants have an important role to play, supervising activities and guiding children.

We select our staff with the utmost care, ensuring a strong educational background and all the right skills and attitudes. We provide regular training to ensure all our staff members are up to date with all the latest educational practices.

Confident Kids

Another great benefit of Montessori education is the social development it gives to children. When kids are allowed to make more of their own decisions, their confidence grows.

This is an important attribute which they'll take into their next level of education. That's just one of the reasons a Montessori school can help set kids up for life.

Experience Montessori for Yourself

With all these amazing benefits, it's no wonder that more and more parents are looking to enroll their children at a Montessori School.

By now, you might want to experience this wonderful system for yourself and get a closer look at how it works in practice.

Contact  Arrow Montessori School  today and arrange an appointment to come and see the school first hand.

5 Incredible Ways A Montessori School Will Engage Your Child

Wed, 01 Dec 2021 03:44:16 GMT

Dr. Maria Montessori was an Italian physician and educator who developed a new style of childhood education that is still used today in specialty schools bearing her name.

Many parents choose a Montessori school for their children because the Montessori method is developmentally appropriate for young children and has a hands-on, child-focused approach that helps instill a love of learning at a very young age.

Today, Montessori education extends into the upper elementary and middle-school grades, but initially, it was aimed at early childhood learners. At all levels, this method of teaching and learning engages children in a way that other educational systems might not.

If you're interested in learning more about the benefits of sending your child to a Montessori preschool or Montessori academy, read on. You'll learn more about why the Montessori method is so attractive to parents and children in this post.

1. Individualized, Child-Centered Learning

One of the biggest draws of a Maria Montessori school is that the learning is child-centered. Children enrolled in these schools work at their own pace. Even at a young age, children learning with the Maria Montessori Method are encouraged to make many of their own decisions about their learning. Children are also encouraged to work with other students with abilities that both match and differ from their own. Every student can move forward and progress at a pace that is right for him or her.

2. A Focus on Self-Discipline

Because of the child-centered learning aspect of Montessori schools, children also develop self-discipline. Teachers will ask students what they'd like to work on each day and for how long, and the speed at which they complete tasks is up to them. In doing so, children of all ages will learn about motivation, self-control, focus, and concentration.

3. Cooperation is Encouraged

In a Montessori classroom, a teacher is more of a guide than a leader. As a result, students work together to move through the activities of the day as a team with each other and with their teachers. They'll participate in shared work and cooperative activities; for ultimate success, they must engage with others, just as we all must in the larger world.

4. Montessori Loves Creativity

Children are amazing and creative beings, and their creative spirits will thrive in a Maria Montessori school. The process is valued as much, if not more, than the result in all classroom projects and adventures. Students are encouraged to dive head-first into creative art projects and in developing innovative solutions to small and large problems.

5. Everything Is Hands-On

Perhaps the biggest trademark of the Maria Montessori method is the fact that almost every activity in a Montessori classroom is hands-on. Students learn concrete, applicable life lessons through play and tasks and will carry what they learn in school with them for the rest of their lives.

Children are not babied in a Montessori school; rather, they are treated according to their ability, and as they grow, they will rise to meet any and all expectations put on them. Montessori students are confident learners who are excited to try new things.

Try a Maria Montessori School Today

A Maria Montessori school is different from other schools you'll encounter; you'll see the difference as soon as you step foot in the classroom. Children and parents both love these types of schools almost immediately and will see the effect of Maria Montessori's methods in short order.

If you're looking for a Montessori school in San Dimas , please give us a call today . We'd love to answer your questions and give you a tour of our school. We can't wait to hear from you.

3 Important Skills Your Child Will Learn At Montessori Preschools

Mon, 01 Nov 2021 03:56:55 GMT

If your little one is ready to begin preschool, you may be feeling a bit apprehensive.

Finding the right preschool program for your child can enhance learning. This will allow them to develop a great skill set.

You've likely heard of Montessori preschools.

But, do you know what makes them different? Continue reading to learn three skills your child will learn at a Montessori preschool.

1. An Understanding of Self

The Montessori method uses sensory play. This allows your little one to have a better understanding of self.

Your preschooler will have a greater understanding of the world around them. Using sensory materials such as visual, tactile, auditory, taste and olfactory encourage self-directed learning. Your little one will flourish and develop self-confidence.

Engaging your child's senses will encourage sensorial perception development. Along with a deeper understanding of self, your child will learn respect for all people and living things.

2. Fine and Gross Motor Skills

The Montessori curriculum seeks to enhance fine and gross motor skills.

Dr. Maria Montessori created the Montessori method. She discovered a link between motor skills and brain development.

Montessori fine motor skills activities include locks and keys matching activities. Other motor skills activities include color matching and sorting bead activities. Your child will enjoy matching, grading, and sorting.

Gross motor skills are coordinated muscle movements. Physical activity is vital for your child's health and well-being. Your child will develop their muscles. Additionally, strengthening their coordination with the use of practical life exercises.

These exercises include good practices such as sweeping, pouring water, or washing a table, to name a few.

3. Social-Emotional Skills

Children who learn in Montessori classrooms have shown the development of more vital social-emotional skills.

The Montessori method stresses the importance of small children interacting with other small children. Children engage in purposive activities for both selfish and social needs. In return, this increases their independence and allows them to realize that their actions can benefit others.

Your preschooler will learn emotional intelligence through activities, interactions, and relationships.

Montessori Preschools

The Montessori method offers a unique approach to learning. This method believes that a teacher does not teach but allows learning as a natural process.

Your preschooler will be encouraged to follow natural curiosity. At Arrow Montessori School, your child will experience preschool. The class curriculum is specific to your child's individual needs.

The Montessori approach will help your preschooler develop a love of learning. At Arrow Montessori School, your child will grow. You will be proud of the confidence and sense of achievement your child will have.

Start Your Little One's Montessori Journey

At Montessori preschools , your preschooler will receive a great headstart on life. Your child will be free to absorb information. A Montessori preschool allows your little one to investigate their surroundings in a safe environment.

Your little one's desire to learn is matched with Montessori methods to make learning enjoyable. Contact  Arrow Montessori School  today for more information on how to help your child grow into their fullest potential.

5 Exceptional Things To Expect From a Montessori Academy

Fri, 01 Oct 2021 03:59:51 GMT

Are you looking for a tried and true schooling method, that offers children more than regular schooling? The Montessori approach was developed to meet those needs.

A Montessori academy will promote independent learning. It lets your child's natural curiosity drive their studies. At the same time, they'll develop the skills they need to prepare them for life.

Let's explore 5 exceptional things you can expect from a Montessori academy.

1. Child-Directed Learning

Don't worry, this doesn't mean kids at the front of the class! The Montessori method allows each child to work on projects that they choose for themselves.

The work is pre-planned by teaching staff and is accessible to students. They self-select what they would like to work on that day, choosing something that piques their interest.

Don't expect to see a teacher at the front of the class, teaching all the children the same subject. Children will work on their own projects at their own pace, with teachers there to support and guide them.

2. A Mixture of Academic and Life Skills

A Montessori academy gives children the chance to develop life skills alongside academic ones. Math, English, science, geography, and other traditional subjects are not overlooked.

The Montessori method eschews the one-size-fits-all approach. Learners receive instruction adapted to their own learning style.

Learners are also empowered with an awareness of their environment. They learn about their responsibility towards it. They are also taught to care for themselves, through activities such as polishing shoes and cleaning dishes.

3. Learners Move Around The Room

Learners are not restricted to a single desk. At a Montessori academy, there is plenty of room for learners to choose their place to work. This could be at a desk, on the floor, or in a quiet corner.

As they move around, they are encouraged to interact with each other. Through these interactions, they learn the value of collaborative working. They are also exposed to peer teaching and develop social skills.

This is also true in a Montessori daycare. From a young age, children are encouraged to seek out activities that interest them. Rather than being a form of babysitting, Montessori daycare fosters a love of learning in young ones.

4. Mixed Age Groups

The Montessori method dismisses the notion that children of the same age develop at the same rate. Rather than grouping children by age, it's not uncommon to see mixed age group classes in a Montessori school.

As in real life, children work on their own projects but also help each other. Older children can help the younger ones to grasp new concepts or skills. This effectively prepares children for collaborating across ages in adult life.

5. Children Correct Their Own Errors

In traditional education, children rely on teachers to correct their errors. With the Montessori method, the design of activities allows the child to practice self-correction.

Learners can work on a project as long as they need to internalize the concepts.

Why a Montessori Academy Is a Great Choice

When your child attends a Montessori academy, they're getting more than academic education. They get the chance to develop as people, learning to care about their environment. They learn to collaborate successfully with others through stimulating activities.

At  Arrow Montessori School  , our learners range from infants to middle school children . We have over 18 years of experience with the Montessori method. We also offer a wide range of after-school programs.

Contact us today to learn how we can help your child.

Is a Montessori School Right for Your Child?

Wed, 01 Sep 2021 04:00:34 GMT

Your child's first learning environment will set the tone for their educational journey.

Young students are starting to feel school stress early on and it is having an adverse effect on their mental health. Traditional schools with standardized testing give children added pressure and stress that takes away from the joy of learning.

If you are interested in finding the right school for your child, you may want to consider Montessori school.

Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about Montessori school.

What Is a Montessori School?

Montessori education consists of learning that is child-directed. Children are guided to direct their own studies and encouraged to focus on their personal interests. Teachers are present to support children in their learning.

Montessori schools offer a hands-on approach to learning. Much of the classroom activities involve children devoting their days to projects they are passionate about.

Instead of lectures and lessons, children in a Montessori academy can work on puzzles, read, or work on an art project. They are encouraged to use sensory touch and play as part of their learning.

The Maria Montessori Method

Maria Montessori was an Italian doctor who studied child development. In her studies, she found that the traditional teaching methods in public schools did not align with children's natural development.

She created a method of education to allow children to focus on tasks that they enjoy and follow their innate interests. This allows for creativity and creates a more organic learning environment.

These are the principles of Maria Montessori's method:

Learning through experimentation including touch and play
Honoring the child's level of learning
Learning life skills in addition to math, science, and English
Teaching spiritual, emotional, physical, and social aspects of life
Learning freely within the set boundaries
Emphasizing calm and peace in the learning environment.

It was Maria's belief children need independence and the opportunity for exploration. This way, they can flourish and pursue their passions. Even young children in Montessori preschool are given this opportunity.

Is Montessori School Right for Your Child?

There are several ways to know if the Montessori method is the right choice for you and your child. Of course, all children have different needs and different learning styles.

These are some of the indicators that your child might benefit from Montessori school:

They learn more effectively with individual attention from the teacher
They are self-motivated and self-sufficient
They enjoy hands-on learning activities
They can communicate and interact with children of all ages

You want your child to thrive in familiar environments as well. In a Montessori school, they will likely grow with the same student and teachers for many years.

Choosing Montessori School

The Montessori method is not just one style of learning. It is suitable for most children because it is versatile in order to meet the needs of each individual student.

Montessori schools offer programs for children of all ages. With infant and toddler daycare and preschool programs, it is never too early to get your child started in this conducive and beneficial learning environment.

If you are in the San Dimas area, there are options for your child to enjoy a Montessori learning environment in our San Dimas Preschool.

The Takeaway on Montessori School

Finding the right school for your child is important for their social, cognitive, and emotional growth. Traditional schools can create added stress and pressure on the youngest of children. By choosing a Montessori school for your child, they cultivate a love for learning from the very beginning!

Be sure to visit our website and learn about programs at Montessori school in San Dimas .

Here's Why Bilingual Montessori Students Can Do Well

Sun, 01 Aug 2021 04:03:38 GMT

Raising your child to be bilingual can be a challenge, but the results are worth the extra effort, as many parents know. Bilingual Montessori students fare well compared to students in traditional settings.

Read on to find out more about the success your child can have in a bilingual Montessori school.

Why Montessori?

Montessori schools are based on the principles of student choice and independence. When we offer students choices on how to learn, we give them the initiative when learning. When children decide how to learn, they feel empowered, which instills a love of learning in them for life.

Allowing for students to work on something on their own forces them to think and work through problems. This helps them to develop their critical thinking skills as they learn.

The benefits of Montessori learning are best felt right at the beginning of childhood, but we have a range of programs for children of all ages. From infancy through middle school, we are here to help your student feel more empowered to learn.

Bilingual Montessori Benefits

Montessori programs can help your child develop their second language skills regardless of their age or skill level. The Montessori language curriculum will help your child learn how to use both languages effectively.

Montessori schools also offer different tactile teaching materials for students to choose from when working on their language skills. Bilingual students get the opportunity to manipulate the shapes, letters, and sounds to help them form words in both languages. This helps them draw connections between the two languages and develop their skills in both simultaneously

Another benefit for Montessori English Language Learners is the freedom of choice. This freedom allows them to transition to learning English at a comfortable pace.

Rushing a child into learning a new language can be frustrating. Allowing them to have access to these learning tools and one-on-one teaching time helps them to feel encouraged. That way, they can see learning a new language as a positive experience.

Support Your Child At Home

While having a bilingual school setting helps a lot, it's also important to support your child at home. This will make a huge difference in how well they learn both languages.

The Montessori school setting will help your child to overcome the barriers of learning a new language. Your child will learn in the context of play and socialization with their peers. When your child comes home from this engaging setting, ask them what they learned or who they talked to that day.

Engaging your child in a conversation (in either or both of their languages) is a great way to develop their language and social skills.

Here to Help Your Child Succeed

Bilingual Montessori students do well compared to bilingual students in traditional schools. This is in part because of the resources, freedom, and encouragement they receive in a Montessori school.

Whatever your child needs, we're here to help! Contact us for more information about how we can help your child grow and succeed!

5 Summer Activities for Kids to Keep Them Active

Thu, 01 Jul 2021 04:36:24 GMT

It's the first day of summer vacation. But panic sets in when you realize you have no idea how to entertain your kids for the next few months.

After your panicked thoughts subside, you start thinking of what summer activities are available in the San Dimas area.

Thankfully, you think of a few good ideas that will make their summer worthwhile and full of fun.

So, keep reading if you want 5 more summer activities for kids to do!

1. Summer Camp

Summer camp is a great way to fill your child's schedule with active things to do. These camps usually focus on ways to enhance your child's life in one way or another.

Many 4H centers, churches, or schools hold exciting camps for the youth all summer long. For example, here at Montessori, we offer a Summer School Camp with STEM.

Activities at camp vary and can include swimming, dance, art, archery, etc.

2. Family Hikes

A great family summer activity is hiking together. Find a new place your family will enjoy and embark on a new adventure. This brings new memories while staying fit at the same time.

California is filled with great hiking terrain for all ages. And you can make the most out of it by making it a camping trip as well.

Your family will be sure to experience new challenges together, all while spending time in nature.

3. Outdoor Crafts

Keeping your kids' mind active is also important this summer. So that's why outdoor crafts can be an awesome way to keep their minds stimulated.

Because they will be outdoors, don't be afraid to get messy and let the children run wild with their art. This lets them have a different kind of fun since they aren't worried about staying clean.

Some great craft activities include kinetic sand, painting, slime making, etc.

4. Water Activities

Kids love nothing better than getting wet in the summer. Luckily, water activities will keep your kids active all summer long.

And there are many more things than swimming in a pool that they'll enjoy. Getting creative with how is just part of the fun.

Popular water activities include water balloons, slip ‘n slides, sprinklers, water guns, etc.

5. Game Nights

Summer nights are the perfect time for some outdoor games. Game night is ideal for indoors or outdoors and will ensure your kids have a great time.

For indoor fun, you can go with classic games like board games, card games, or trivia.

Or you can use your imagination to create scavenger hunts, obstacle courses, or even a completely made-up game for the outdoors.

Enjoy These Summer Activities For Kids

Remember, it's important to keep kids active in the summer, that way they are also entertained.

So hopefully this list of summer activities for kids helps bring fun and excitement to your summertime! And please don't forget to contact us today with any questions regarding the upcoming school year!

3 Things to Look for In Your Montessori School

Tue, 01 Jun 2021 04:37:03 GMT

If you have children who are about to start school, you might be wondering whether a Montessori school might be a good option for them. More and more parents and caregivers around the world appreciate the Maria Montessori method.

This is because of its child-centered focus, spontaneous and playful attitude towards learning, and passion for supporting the development of every individual child. But when it comes to picking the right Montessori-based school, you should know exactly what to look for.

Read our guide to find out about the three essential characteristics that a great Montessori school should have.

1. A Genuine Montessori Learning Experience

Just because a school claims to be Montessori, it doesn't always mean that it is structured in the way an authentic Montessori preschool should be. So, when you are visiting the school, make sure you keep an eye out for a Montessori learning environment.

This might vary a little bit from school to school, but in general, you should be able to spot some consistent features. For example, the rooms should have very few “traditional” toys, and include a hands-on, practical area.

The school should also have child-sized furniture and many everyday objects placed within the child's reach. The environment should also look and feel welcoming, cozy, and inclusive, with children of mixed ages playing together.

2. Qualified, Trained, and Experienced Teachers

First of all, a Montessori teacher is a bit different from an ordinary one. For example, they won't be standing up in front of the children providing instructions, and they won't be delivering any traditional lessons.

A real Montessori teacher is more similar to a mentor, an educator, and a facilitator. They will encourage, stimulate, and inspire children of different ages, abilities, and developmental stages.

Montessori teachers should also hold a formal, valid, and current Montessori qualification. Sometimes, teaching assistants are also trained in Montessori. If you find a school with both Montessori-trained teachers and assistants, then you are off to a great start.

3. Thriving, Imaginative, Supported Children

After you have evaluated the environment and the teachers, you are going to need one last, fundamental insight: the one coming from the children.

To achieve this, you should try to schedule your visit at a time when the students are in the classroom. Doing so will help you to gain a truthful perspective over how children learn, play, and interact.

While you are observing them, make a few mental notes and ask yourself a few questions. Are they actively engaged in their activities?

Are they choosing which objects to play with freely? Are they solving any potential conflict in a positive, constructive way? These are good indicators of whether the school is succeeding at its Montessori method.

Selecting the Best Montessori School for Your Child

Now that you know the main criteria for selecting a great Montessori school for your little one, you can begin your search. Are you based in the San Dimas area?

At  Arrow Montessori School  , we would love to welcome your child, and help them realize their best potential in the ways that are most suitable to them. Contact us today to learn more.

Should You Start Your Child off in a Montessori Preschool?

Mon, 03 May 2021 04:39:52 GMT

Parents can consider placing their children in Montessori preschool to help them transition into school over time. If you're reading this, we're sure that you're wondering if a Montessori education is all it's cracked up to be.

Rest assured, a Montessori preschool has plenty to offer your child. Interested in learning more?

Below you're going to find some vital information about why you need to place your child in our Montessori school in San Dimas.

Your Child Will Learn Vital Skills

Montessori academy will teach your child vital skills that they will need to continue to grow and interact with other people. It will teach them to be organized and follow the directions that are being given in the classroom.

Your child will learn basic skills that are common in school and learn functional skills that will help them as they continue to grow. For example, your child will learn how to work with others to solve problems, they could also learn how to stitch hems and buttons onto the garment.

Learnt Collaboration

When your child is at home, it may just be them as an only child. Therefore they don't always have the best grasp on collaborating with others .

Montessori academy will teach your child the importance of working together with other children their age.

In this environment, your child will continue to grow and learn from other students while acting as a teacher for them as well. You'll find that your child can relate to those in their classes, which helps them be open and receptive to learning new things.

Tight-Knit Group

In a traditional school, your child will have different teachers and classmates each year that they're in school. That's not the case in a Montessori academy.

Your child will typically have the same teachers and classmates for years at a time. This is beneficial because your child will have that familiarity every time they step foot into the classroom.

It gives them a sense of belonging and establishes a level of stability that they won't normally have in a regular school setting.

Find Their Own Pace

Instead of working and keeping up with others in their class, your child will get to learn at their own pace. This means that they won't feel pressured to learn something quickly.

Instead, they can take their time to grasp a concept before they move forward with learning another skill.

Montessori Preschool: Is It Right For My Child?

There are several things to think about when placing your child in a Montessori preschool. You've got to think of all the things that it offers your child, including a tight-knit group of people to learn and grow with through the years.

Your child will also be able to grow at their own pace versus keeping up with others. If you're ready to make the next decision and place your child in a Montessori school, contact Arrow Montessori School .

We know what it takes to prepare your child to learn and grow in an environment that they're comfortable with.

How Is a Montessori School Different From Public Schools

Mon, 19 Apr 2021 04:42:43 GMT

Have you found yourself wondering how to best prepare your infant or toddler for school? Are you looking for an excellent San Dimas preschool? If so, consider investigating a Montessori school.

After all, early childhood education can have a significant impact on a child's future. It means they're more likely to graduate high school , and it also helps prepare them for their future academic and social years in school.

Our approach is centered on the student. We value community, creativity, and student choice, and we want to teach these values to your child as well. We believe that this will foster learning environments that promote authentic learning.

You may be wondering how a Montessori academy or preschool differs from a public school. If so, you're not alone! Keep reading to get the breakdown between these very different approaches to education.

What Is the Montessori Method?

Maria Montessori started the first Montessori academy in Italy in 1907. Maria worked to create engaging learning activities that let students choose what they wanted to learn. This was (and still can be) a significant break from the more structured and rigid approach that is still in use today in many schools.

Her inventive efforts paid off! The Maria Montessori method has continued to grow in popularity with infant and toddler daycare centers around the world.

How Are Montessori Schools Different From Public Schools?

One of the easiest ways to see the difference between a public school and a Montessori school is to look at the classroom.

In a traditional public school, students passively sit at desks throughout the lesson. At a Montessori school, students are free to move around the learning space as they want. This encourages them to engage and collaborate with peers, and learn hands-on.

The Maria Montessori method encompasses more than the learning environment. The primary way that Montessori schools and public schools differ is their focus on the student.

In a public school, the teacher directs the class and sets the pace. The teacher also determines the learning approach, and enforces external rules and rewards. A Montessori school will focus on the child first in order to foster genuine learning.

A Montessori preschool will foster genuine curiosity in students. Children will use the classroom environment and materials to help them learn based on their own interests and on their own pace. A public school's curriculum is typically set with little to no flexibility or ability for teachers to adapt.

Montessori academies also place a high value on authenticity. Students in public schools are often taught material that will help them to succeed on state standardized tests. It's also taught in a way based on the teacher's approach rather than considering how students learn best.

In contrast, a Montessori school emphasizes student-guided learning. The Maria Montessori method also focuses on the intrinsic rewards that come from learning.

Ready to Learn More?

Montessori schools value educating the whole child and promoting a deep love of learning that will last a lifetime. If you're looking to start your child off in a Montessori school in San Dimas , contact us today ! We will give them an excellent education and foster genuine growth to help them love learning.

8 Fun and Safe Spring Activities for Kids

Wed, 10 Mar 2021 04:44:59 GMT

While there are certainly plenty of good things about winter, like the holidays, building snowmen, and enjoying hot chocolate, most people can't wait for spring. Spring is a wonderful, refreshing time of year that brings about new life, warmth, and fun outdoor activities.

However, with the current pandemic still in full-effect, you may be wondering how to keep your kids safer and healthier this year. After all, you need to protect your kids from getting Covid-19 . This might mean thinking outside the box.

We want to help. Keep reading for our eight spring activities for kids they're sure to enjoy while staying safe and healthy.

1. Go On a Nature Walk

There are countless benefits of being outdoors . Sunlight helps our bodies synthesize vitamin D, it helps our moods, and it encourages us to be more active.

Take your kids on a nature walk this spring through a local park or wooded area. This is also a great way to teach them about plants and animals.

2. Start Growing a Garden

Spring is a time of growth. Take advantage of the season and teach your children how to start and care for a small garden. Get a few seeds for fruits, vegetables, and flowers, and watch as your children are memorized by their growth over the weeks.

3. Make a Birdhouse

Building a birdhouse is one of the most interactive spring activities. You can purchase some supplies at your local arts and crafts store. Help your child design and build a simple birdhouse and hang it outside.

4. Build an Outdoor Fort

One of the most engaging spring activities for children is building a fort in the backyard. This can be as intricate or simple as you want.

They can use the outdoor furniture, blankets, and other objects found around the house. Otherwise, consider lending a hand and building something more permanent.

5. Put on an Outdoor Play

Children have something most adults have lost over the years - unbound imaginations. Encourage them to foster this sense of creativity by putting on a play for you, your family, and friends. You can get involved and help them design costumes, build sets, and make props.

6. Learn How to Fly a Kite

With warm weather comes outside activities for kids. While it's not quite warm enough to go to the pool or set up a slip-and-slide, you can teach your children how to fly a kite. For an added bit of fun, teach them how to make their own kite using a plastic garbage bag.

7. Decorate the House for Easter

Assuming your family celebrates Easter, the beginning of spring is the perfect time to start decorating. Children, especially, get into coloring eggs, making decorations, and dreaming of Easter morning. Depending on your religion, now might also be a good time to teach your children about the deeper meaning of the holiday.

8. Learn a New Sport

Finally, some of the best spring activities involve teaching your children new sports. Fun spring sports include things like tennis, basketball, and baseball. However, this can also extend to other activities like riding bikes, rollerblading, and playing simple outdoor games like tag and hide-and-seek.

Looking for More Spring Activities and Other Parenting Tips?

Like you, we can't wait for spring and all the outdoor fun it brings. Try some of the spring activities listed above with your children this year to get them outside and keep them healthy.

Additionally, consider looking into a summer school program to help your children learn how to swim. However, the Montessori School is about much more than that.

Our school strives to take a better approach to education. Contact us today to learn more about the school or schedule an appointment to take a tour.

Everything You Need to Know About the Maria Montessori Method

Wed, 10 Feb 2021 04:51:53 GMT

If you have a young child, chances are that you have heard about the Maria Montessori method at least once. Schools around the world are embracing this famous approach to learning, but what does that mean exactly for kids? This article will help you understand more about this approach.

To learn more and get the lowdown on this program, how it works, and why it's so effective, read on.

Who Was Maria Montessori?

First things first, a bit of historical background. Maria Montessori was born in Italy in 1870 from a very well-educated family. Maria graduated from medical school in 1896, becoming one of the first female doctors in the country.

Her initial practice was in psychiatry, but she soon developed a passion for pedagogy . This led her to begin observations on the way intellectually challenged children were taught and learned.

In 1900, Maria became co-director of a training institute for children with special needs. In 1907, she finally opened her own center, the “Casa dei bambini”. This was a daycare service for children from 3 to 7 years of age, coming from poorer and under-served backgrounds.

To begin with, the children were wayward and rebellious, but Maria used her very own approach with them. Gradually, they became interested in the daily activities that Maria would engage them in. Eventually, they thrived and demonstrated higher levels of concentration and self-discipline.

So, what exactly did Maria's method involve, and why was it so successful?

What Is the Maria Montessori Method?

The approach designed by Maria Montessori was, in fact, a rather simple one. It created a stimulating learning environment using daily objects instead of toys. Children had the possibility to choose whatever item they wanted to play with, which allowed them the freedom to explore their surroundings in a more spontaneous, yet very effective way.

By playing in this independent way, the children's social, cognitive, and academic skills improved. Maria's method grew in popularity over the decades, and there are now thousands of Montessori-based schools around the world. Arrow Montessori is one of them: a leading Montessori academy that caters to the needs of pupils from preschool to junior high.

You may wonder, at this point, whether the Maria Montessori method is suitable for your child. It is if you believe that a child should be free to use their innate curiosity and inquisitiveness to learn. Help your child to get to know the world on their own terms and by exploring their surroundings freely, with the Montessori method.

Choose the Maria Montessori Method for Fun, Effective, Child-Centered Learning

By choosing the Maria Montessori method, you will put your child at the center of their learning environment. Leaving them free to play, explore, and understand, they will learn in the most natural and effective way.

Keen to know even more? Our fun, engaging, and interactive classes can stimulate your child's natural learning skills. Contact us today to find out more and reserve a spot for your little one.

5 Fun Winter Activities for Kids to Do!

Wed, 13 Jan 2021 05:08:56 GMT

The cold weather doesn't have to stop your children from having a lot of fun. There are plenty of great outdoor winter activities for kids that will help them get all of that excess energy out through play and give them a healthy workout.

But what should your kid be doing this winter?

We want to offer up some ideas. Bundle up and keep reading for some of our favorite winter things for kids to do outside!

1. Snow Day Obstacle Course

Do you want your kids to be active when they're out in the snow on your mountain trip? They'll warm right up when you set up some snowy obstacle courses for them.

You don't need anything but the snow on the ground, though it will be helpful if you have things like toboggans and traffic cones.

You have all of the building materials that you need even without those things. Build piles of snow for your child to jump over, forts for them to crawl through, and have them build all kinds of fun snowy decorations like snowmen and snow angels. You'll have as much fun building it as they have playing with it.

2. Outdoor DIY Movie Theater

As long as it's still warm enough to sit outside, why not hook up a projector and set it to play movies against one of the outside walls of your home?

This is a great time to watch your favorite wintery movies, and it's a good opportunity to invite friends over for a safe, outdoor, family-friendly activity.

3. Go On a Scavenger Hunt

There are plenty of things to see outdoors, even in the wintertime.

If you're in an area with a lot of nature, make sure you include things like certain kinds of plants and leaves that show up in the winter. If not, walk around the neighborhood and see if you can spot snowmen, a certain color of holiday lights, those inflatable lawn decorations, or anything else that fits your winter theme.

Your kids will have a lot of fun seeking these things out.

4. Ice Skating Fun

Who doesn't love ice skating?

Starting your child early with ice skating is great for their balance and coordination, as well as their bravery! Your child will learn to fall down and get back up. It also gives them a skill that can last a lifetime.

5. Have a Family Day Inside

Is the winter weather giving you the blues? You can also have a quiet day indoors with all kinds of fun activities.

Why not make a toasty blanket fort and play some board games indoors? Or bake holiday cookies? If the weather outside is frightful your home can still be delightful.

What Are Your Favorite Winter Activities for Kids?

Do these winter activities for kids inspire you? Whether it's a sunny day with loads of snow or a blustery afternoon, there's something for every child. Pick your favorite activity and try it out today!

Speaking of activities, are you interested in a school that gives your children fun and interesting ways to learn? Why not join a Montessori school? To learn more about our Montessori school and how we can help your child thrive, contact us .

5 Smart Study Habits of Highly Successful Students

Tue, 01 Dec 2020 05:09:39 GMT

Forming effective study habits during early educational years is crucial for educational development. Studying helps to benefit your child in the classroom as well as in their everyday lives.

For this reason, it is important to develop consistent studying habits with your child. This guide aims to provide 5 effective techniques to use when initially developing these habits.

1. Create a Schedule for Their Study Habits

A great way to ensure that your child sticks to a regular study plan is by making a weekly schedule. By writing down what they want to get done, they are able to visibly see how far along they are in their studying process.

Tools such as a calendar or a spreadsheet can help to further organize your child’s week. It is recommended that you schedule one day a week that does not include studying in order to avoid burnout.

2. Set Study Session Goals

When learning a new subject, it can be very helpful to assign goals to each study session. Goals help direct the session and make sure your child stays on task for the duration of studying.

Setting small academic goals can help them remain motivated while building towards a larger goal. For example, some short term goals may be:

Memorizing a certain amount of words per session
Concentrating on a single subject
Completing a set number of equations per session

To add, this study habit helps prepare students for high school and college. Setting specific goals for each session will help manage their studying time when assigned a larger workload.

3. Avoid Distractions

Distractions are a major cause of ineffective studying. With the amount of technology available to kids today, it can be hard for them to set it aside and work on schoolwork.

According to a 2017 study , technological distractions can greatly impact how students retain information.

Whether your child studies at home or school, it is recommended that they turn to traditional methods when studying. This may include writing out their notes, reading textbooks instead of computer screens if possible, and securing their phone or other devices during the duration of the session.

4. Motivating Themselves

For most students, studying is not seen as a desirable task. For this reason, it is important that they motivate themselves before beginning each session. Writing out why they are motivated to study or reasons why they should, helps motivate them to begin the session.

Some motivational statements may sound like:

I want to be prepared for the future
I want to do my best
I want to learn as much content as possible

Writing out this list and keeping it in a place where they can always see it will help constantly remind them of the importance of studying.

5. Take Notes in Class

Taking notes in class helps to retain information better than listening or typing them out on a computer. Notes help students remember the massive amounts of information thrown at them every day.

Finally, notes are a great resource for students when studying later. They can help remind kids of the topics they learned earlier in the week and give them a starting point when developing their session goals.

Staying Studious

Consistently sticking to these few study habits can help your child become more successful in the long-term. Preparing them at a young age helps to ease the transition from early education to further academic ventures.

To learn more about the Montessori method and how your child can benefit from our schooling, feel free to contact us.

Fun and Effective Ways to Teach Respect to Your Children

Fri, 06 Nov 2020 05:13:10 GMT

Have you noticed a lack of respect in the world lately? In all walks of life and professions, it seems like there is quite a bit of room for improvement when it comes to respecting others.

Where does respect start, and why is there a problem with lack of respect today? Respect begins at home with parents and extends into the classroom between teachers and children.

One could surmise that some parents of today didn't learn respect from their parents or their teachers, and this is something we’d like to change. Teaching respect is an important part of your job as a parent. How?

Keep reading for some effective ways of teaching respect to your children.

Model Respect

Children model your behavior. As a parent, if you don't show respect to others, your children won't either. If you don't respect your kids, they won't respect you.

Treat everyone - from the waitress to your best friend - with kindness. Be polite and calm in all situations.

Sometimes, the people we love the most are the ones we treat the worst. This leads to bad relationships. Respect is the foundation of a good relationship.

Treat your spouse and family members, including the children, with respect. Be polite and courteous, and keep your temper in check.

Respecting Preferences

The world would be a boring place if everyone had the same preferences. Respect others' preferences.

Your child isn't doing something wrong because she doesn't like broccoli. Yes, children need their vegetables, but don't yell and threaten if the child doesn't like a certain food.

Expect her to taste the things she doesn't like, but don't force her to eat more than that. Stay calm. Yelling and nagging aren't necessary.

Does your child want to wear that ugly old t-shirt you hate? Let her. Respecting your child's choices helps your child respect others' choices.

We're teaching children through our everyday behaviors, and it's effective.

Empathy

Empathy is understanding and sharing the thoughts and feelings of others. A person with empathy is better able to communicate respect. Empathy opens the door to compassion, kindness, and respect.

Model empathy for your children.

Discipline Versus Punishment

Discipline is training or teaching, not punishment. Taking a punitive approach doesn't show or teach respect.

Everyone makes mistakes. When you make a mistake at work, if the boss talks down to you or embarrasses you in front of others, you're not likely to respect your boss.

Instead of anger and punishment, use a positive approach with your children. This shows your respect for them, and in turn, they'll respect you more.

Set boundaries for your kids and stick to them. When your child crosses the line, don't humiliate or degrade her. Offer a brief explanation about why the behavior isn't acceptable.

Stick to a fair consequence for bad behavior.

Teaching Respect

Teaching respect isn't hard.

Be kind, compassionate, and empathetic toward others. Your children model your behavior. If you're respectful, you'll raise respectful children.

In a crass and disrespectful world, your kids will go far with an attitude of respect for others.

Are you looking for a respectful school environment for your children? Please contact us here.

10 Fun Halloween Activities for Kids

Thu, 08 Oct 2020 05:16:51 GMT

Halloween is just around the corner, so it's time to get spooky. Kids love a fun activity that will give them a bit of a fright. Giggles, haunts, and a fun time are in store with these creative Halloween activities for kids.

A night of fright and fun is ahead. Just be sure to keep an eye out over your shoulder.

1. Yarn Mummies

Create and cut out a cardboard mummy. Paint the front black and let it dry completely. Add googly eyes with glue dots or tacky glue. Once all elements are dry, cut small slits on the edges to keep the yarn in place.

Tape the end of a piece of white yarn to the back and begin wrapping around your mummy person from head to toe. Be sure to leave space for the eyes. Once your mummy is wrapped up, secure the end of the yarn to the back with tape.

2. Make a Monster

Let your kids get hands-on with this monster activity. Use clay to shape the body of the monster and a variety of craft supplies to add the feature. Googly eyes, pipe cleaners, ribbons, and more will create a unique scary creature.

3. Pinecone Bats

Take a nature walk to collect pine cones. Use black felt and pipe cleaners to create bat wings. Hot glue the wings into the side of the pinecone.

Add googly eyes, felt ears, and white cardstock fangs for a frighteningly cute face.

4. Pumpkin Decorating

A classic Halloween activity is decorating a pumpkin . Head to a pumpkin patch and pick out a few of your favorites. Make sure they vary in size, shape, and color.

Set up a station with paint, pompoms, gems, and buttons, and let your kiddos express themselves.

5. Ghost Busting Kit

The fun of Halloween is a little bit of fright. Create a kit with flashlights, a notepad and pen, and a couple of homemade gadgets. Hide stuffed ghosts around the house.

Then turn off the lights and see what you can find. Of course, you'll need a snack after all that hard work.

6. Paper Plate Witches

Paint your paper plate a witchy green. Add large googly eyes and cardboard features like a nose, mouth, and wart. Don't forget her signature black hat and colorful yarn hair.

7. Cauldron Slime

Your witch needs a bubbling cauldron, of course. You can buy a cauldron in the Halloween section and use a classic slime recipe to create her potion. Add fake spiders, eyeballs, and frogs to the brew.

8. Black Cat Handprints

Have your child trace and cut out their handprint on black construction paper. Cut out a head with ears and glue it to the palm. Add kitty details with white pens and googly eyes; the fingers will be the cat's legs, and the thumb is the tail.

9. Scary Good Doughnuts

After all this fun, it's time for a snack. You can make easy homemade doughnuts or buy some from the grocery store. Decorate with drippy frosting, candy eyes, or icing blood.

10. Halloween Scavenger Hunt

Great for kids of all ages, get them moving with a scavenger hunt. Create a list and have them run inside and out to collect all the items. Little toys and candy make excellent prizes.

Halloween Activities for Kids

Kids love Halloween, and it's a great holiday to let them be creative.

These ten Halloween activities for kids will keep them engaged and get them into the spooky spirit.Find out how we can help your child's creative and social development.

5 Important Ways Montessori Academies Differ From Traditional Education

Tue, 01 Sep 2020 05:28:12 GMT

How did you best learn as a child? Did your school let you have any say in things you were learning or the way you learned them?

If you are looking for a more tailored approach to education for your kids, you should consider a Montessori-style education.

Montessori academies offer a unique option for children to choose how they want to learn. They are different in many ways from traditional education.

Keep reading to learn how!

How Montessori Academies Are Different

Standard public education is great for many students. It's a good thing that it's offered to every student in the country. But, it might not be the best thing for your child.

Montessori education has been around for over a hundred years, but in the last few decades has had a huge spike in popularity. It differs from traditional education in the following ways.

1. More Student-Focused

The key concept in this style of education is that it is child-led as much as possible. Its founder, Maria Montessori , was an educational visionary born in the 1800s who applied the scientific method to determine how children actually learned best.

She found that they were most successful when their natural desire to learn something was encouraged rather than imposed from the outside. So, even today, students' nature desires and interests take center stage.

2. Hands-On Learning

Instead of always listening to a teacher talk, Montessori stresses the importance of students learning by doing. As much as possible, they learn by actively participating in the concepts before them.

There are typically physical work stations spread throughout the learning area which students can choose from. At each one, there are active learning activities for that particular subject.

3. Larger Variety of Students

Grade levels are more fluid. So, there may be a wider variety of ages and abilities all working together. Students are interested in what their peers are doing and learn from them. Some kids are better at certain subjects and not as good at others.

Montessori recognizes this means not every student will progress at the same rate. So, there might be an 8-year-old working with a 10-year-old on geography, but perhaps their math skill matches with a 7-year-old. This is not a problem. It's individualized learning in a social setting.

4. Smaller Classes

Traditional schools must provide education for everyone, which often leads to large class sizes. Montessori classes tend to be much smaller, offering a chance for a deeper connection between teacher and student, and more personalized instruction.

5. Encourage Love of Learning

Montessori teachers' goal is to develop students' natural desire to learn. Rather than make them memorize facts for a test, teachers encourage students to find what motivates their natural interests. The goal is for students to want to learn, rather than be forced to learn.

Luckily, most students actually do want to learn, given the right circumstances.

Contact Us Today

If you'd like more information or would like to enroll your child in our Montessori academy, please contact us .

Montessori academies offer a great alternative to traditional education that we believe offers your child the best chance to succeed and enhance their natural educational abilities!

What Makes the Montessori Method So Unique?

Fri, 07 Aug 2020 05:32:07 GMT

The early years of childhood have a lasting impact on the person we grow up to be. What happens during the first eight years of life has a profound impact on the way we live later on.

The Montessori Method of Education is a teaching philosophy created by Dr. Maria Montessori. After studying medicine at the University of Rome, she developed her method as a public health measure that would help future generations.

Nearly 100 years later, her approach is recognized around the globe. But what is the Montessori Method and how does it work? Read on to learn more.

The Need for Love and Guidance

The world isn't always an easy place to live. The vast majority of people will face adversity during some point in their lives.

Not everyone has the tools to get through it. It doesn't matter if the challenge is academic, career-related, or emotional.

Childhood experiences can determine their ability to overcome these challenges.

A Passion for Learning

Dr. Montessori was an impulsive learner and teacher. Like many women in medicine, she faced sexism from her peers and professors.

She had to study anatomy after hours by herself. They deemed it “inappropriate” for her to be together with the male students around a naked body.

Regardless, she was an excellent student. She was particularly interested in developmental psychiatry. She witnessed firsthand the effects of an unhealthy upbringing.

Why Choose the Montessori Method

If you weigh Montessori Method pros and cons, it's clear that any child would benefit from our kind of learning environment.

The method may seem different to someone who is used to conventional methods.

Backed by Science

The Montessori Method wasn't created to stuff as many children in a room as possible and have them memorize stuff.

It was created by a doctor with a love for education and a sincere interest in public health. She saw the benefits of early education . There are studies that show a real cognitive benefit .

Fostering a Love for Learning

Many conventional schools are overwhelmed by the sheer number of students and lack of resources. The teachers are firmly bound to a certain curriculum. They often find themselves doling out discipline more than anything.

This can lead kids to get bored and even disillusioned with learning.

The Montessori Method aims to instill a love for learning. The children are often encouraged to participate in choosing their curriculum and teaching it too!

An Environment of Learning and Respect

Parents only want the best for their children. One of the best things you could do for them is to let them learn, grow, and have fun in a safe environment.

The Montessori Method of teaching will give your child the tools to continue learning and exploring as they grow into teenagers and young adults.

When it comes to education, don't settle for traditional classrooms. Visit this page to learn more about the programs we have to offer.

We Are OPEN

Tue, 21 Jul 2020 05:35:52 GMT

This fall, we will continue to open our classrooms with limited numbers set forth by the agencies - on Tuesday, September 1st 2020. We have and will continue to adhere to:

- Daily health and temperature screening – including the exclusion of a child with any symptoms of COVID 19 and families that have traveled in the last 14 days.

- Social/Physical distancing throughout the day in the classroom & outdoor play (This includes desks and seating plan inside the classrooms).

- Frequent handwashing.

- Wearing of mask/facial covering for staff and children grades 1 to 8 and highly encouraged for transitional kindergarten and kindergarten.

- Keeping our group size to maximum allowed by current health and state guidelines.

- Drop off and pick up (for now) in the office.

- Sign in and out (for now) in the office.

- Enhanced cleaning and disinfecting.

6 Amazing Benefits of Montessori Schools

Mon, 20 Jul 2020 05:37:10 GMT

Children who participate in Montessori education are likely to have higher test scores, better social skills, and overall higher interest in learning. Developed by Maria Montessori in the late 1800s, the Montessori method of education has made big waves in the United States over the last few decades.

Whether you're looking to start your toddler's education early, or you want your middle schooler to be well-prepared for high school and beyond, Montessori education can do wonders for your child's academics.

Are you considering a Montessori school? Keep reading for 6 benefits of Montessori education.

1. Developmental Benefits

You may be wondering, what's a Montessori school? Montessori schools and programs implement Maria Montessori's discovery that every child has a natural desire to learn.

Instead of traditional schools where kids are forced to learn, Montessori programs allow children to take learning into their own hands. Teachers introduce a subject and let children interact with that subject on their terms.

This allows children to develop their natural curiosity. When learning has no borders, children are unafraid to ask questions, pursue their interests, and make mistakes.

2. Self-discipline

In traditional classrooms, teachers are there to enforce rules. There is a big focus on external discipline.

One of the biggest benefits of Montessori schools is the emphasis on self-discipline. The Montessori method is all about teaching children the rights and wrongs so that they can develop the self-discipline to distinguish between right and wrong on their own.

Through teaching a sense of community, children begin to see the world in a less egotistical way. Right and wrong become what is best for those around them, not what benefits themselves.

3. Collaboration

In traditional classrooms, the teacher is the only acknowledged source of teaching. In Montessori schools, kids are encouraged to collaborate while learning.

A traditional school looks down on students working together and often punishes them on the grounds of cheating. In Montessori classrooms, students learn from each other.

Not only does this encourage children to learn on their own, but it also promotes healthy social interactions.

4. Mixed-Age Learning

Montessori schools don't categorize children into learning groups based on their age. Instead, they group children based on their own learning pace.

These groups are often defined by the stage of development your child is in. While there is a focus on main subjects like language arts, math, and science, there is also an emphasis on emotional, physical, and social skills.

5. Focus on Self and Community

Montessori education will help your child gain respect and care for themselves and those around them. Children learn to take pride in what they have and where they spend time.

This can be as simple as learning the importance of ironing their clothes or cleaning up a mess they've made. This translates to bigger ideas, like picking up trash around their neighborhood or starting a community garden.

6. Individualized Learning

In Montessori schools, your child can afford to be themselves. While certain subjects are introduced, your child gets to work on what interests them, for as long as it takes them to fully grasp a concept.

They will learn to self-teach and spot their own mistakes. This ensures their natural desire to learn is never interrupted.

Love to Learn

Now you know the benefits of Montessori schools. The next step is to enroll your child.

Give us a call or email us today.  Arrow Montessori School  is happy to help your child love to learn!

Teaching a Love of Learning

Mon, 01 Jun 2020 05:42:01 GMT

Education doesn't end when someone leaves school; just because they get a diploma doesn't mean they're done learning. Instead, education is a constant and ongoing process, and it's vital that the process gets started as early as possible. By educating children as soon as possible, they're more likely to develop a love of learning.

Children will grow up to constantly associate learning with positive aspects of their lives. They'll grow up knowing that there's always more to learn about the world, regardless of whether it's in books, math equations, or other people. And those early developmental stages are when a child first gets an inkling of who they may be.

A love of learning will help guide a person throughout their life, in more aspects than just their career. If someone actively enjoys learning about the world around them, they'll live a happier and more fulfilling life. What else could any parent want for their children?

Keep reading below to learn more about how to instill a love of learning in children!

The Most Important Skill

Few children naturally enjoy learning, and for a simple reason: it's boring. Learning is fundamentally about meditating on information and connecting dots about it. It takes brainpower, and some children naturally get more enjoyment out of playing around and engaging their minds with other activities.

Instead, some children need to learn how to love learning — that's what adults need to teach kids first. Once a child learns how to love learning, they'll basically be a sponge for information about anything. If an adult manages to show a child how to love learning, they'll be able to use that skill for the rest of their lives.

Employers Enjoy Growth and Change, Not Just Talent

Employers don't just want to find people with talents and skills to do jobs. They also want to find people with vision and who are eager to learn more about their industries and the company. Technical skills are just a foot in the door for most employers — the character of a person matters more.

By teaching children to love learning, they will become more industrious, interesting, and unique people. They'll become more employable and find more success.

Associate Education With Interests

The best way to instill a love of learning in children is to associate it with their interests . If a child is interested in video games, then teachers should talk with them about why they like playing them. The teacher should make the student's interests their own, and then find something worth discovering within it.

The best teachers help guide students to the realization that there's always more to the things they love. Over time, they'll develop more interests, and will be ready to enrich themselves with knowledge about them.

Connect With Children As More Than Students

The most important step to teach children about how to love learning is to connect with them as more than just students. They're developing people, with their own experiences, ideas, and thoughts. Students aren't just students; they're also sons, daughters, friends, and sometimes even workers.

By approaching students with an appreciation for who they are, they'll listen more to what teachers have to say. They'll be more likely to love learning because they'll love the person teaching them to love.

Loving Children Helps Them Love Learning

The most important reason to instill a love of learning in children has nothing to do with knowledge or tests — it helps teach students how to love the world around them. People who love learning tend to see the beauty in the world around them, no matter what happens. Simply, they grow up to be good people.

And we can teach your children how to love learning at our academy! Just reach out to us to learn more about enrolling them and how we approach teaching using the Montessori method.

Montessori Preschool's Advice on Fun Ways to Teach Critical Thinking

Thu, 21 May 2020 05:42:36 GMT

The first Montessori school was started by Maria Montessori in 1907. She'd had previous success working with special needs children, but this was her chance to make her teaching philosophy mainstream.

Though Montessori schools didn't replace the current education systems, they did catch on. Today there are thousands of Montessori schools all over the world. You can even find a Montessori preschool if you know where to look.

How do Montessori preschools work, though? How do they teach important skills such as critical thinking? We'll talk about some popular techniques in the paragraphs below.

1. Start Young

Education should start young and last our whole lives. There are always more things to learn and explore, and children are very aware of that.

A young child can ask over 70 questions per day , many of which show evidence of critical thinking. For instance, many of these questions consist of a single word-why?

The question of why demonstrates that they want to understand the world. They've figured out that there's an explanation for everything, but they don't know what it is yet.

Oftentimes, your child will ask a question you can't answer. It's okay to tell them that you don't know the answer. Children may look up to adults, but it's important for them to know that adults aren't perfect.

2. Teach, Don't Preach

It's important as a teacher in a Montessori preschool to understand that bias is everywhere. Bias isn't always wrong, but it's often one of multiple right answers.

One way to demonstrate this is to ask two students to build a tower from blocks. There's a good chance that each student will build it differently, if only slightly. Neither of the students is wrong, they just approached the problem in different ways.

When you do have to teach the children something they likely wouldn't figure out on their own, try to explain to them why you're using the method you are. Are there other methods? If not, why not?

3. Encourage Questions and Alternative Ideas

You're not the only person who should know about bias and perspective. Each person has their own way of doing things. The students should understand and respect that.

One of the best ways to explore perspective and bias is to encourage the students to ask questions. Their curiosity is legitimate and is at the root of all education.

The more questions a student asks, the more ideas they explore, and the more engaged they'll be. This will likely lead them to want to learn more.

Teaching Critical Thinking in a Montessori Preschool

A Montessori preschool is a great investment. The Montessori approach involves letting children explore the subjects they want to learn.

This style of school presents several different ways to encourage creative thinking. We've talked about some of them in the paragraphs above, but there are other ways. We encourage you to do more research on your own if you're interested.

If you want more information and advice on Montessori education please visit our site . Critical thinking isn't the only thing a child should learn. It's important to teach them empathy and compassion as well.

Protect Your Children From Getting COVID-19

Wed, 01 Apr 2020 05:52:04 GMT

In the U.S. alone, at the time of this writing, there are over 85,000 cases of COVID-19.

Right now, the risk of children getting COVID-19 shows the same threats as it does to adults. But, there is more to discover about how the virus acts with children.

We know that as a parent you hope to never have to deal with such a difficult circumstance.

Finding a way to support your child's studies as well as keeping their attention can be tough. On the bright side, these times become a great chance to teach, by combining COVID-19 preventative measures with Montessori academy values.

You can do this through three different and effective ways.

Proper Hand Washing Technique Prevents Children Getting COVID-19

Now is a great time to show your little one how important hand washing is - not any kind of hand washing - proper hand washing . This means washing hands for 20 seconds and making sure to scrub!

Singing the song “Happy Birthday” twice is an accurate time example. You can also pick any 20-second song for you and your child to sing together.

This encourages the calm and peaceful atmosphere that they would get in the classroom. Hand washing has been one of the first known steps to preventing coronavirus.

Routine Disinfecting of Frequently Touched Surfaces

Taking the time to wipe down the things that you and your family members touch can make a world of a difference.

This is especially true when it comes to preventing virus contact. Thoroughly disinfect doorknobs, handles, remotes, and anything else your children come into contact with.

Putting this into practice also maintains the beauty of your home. This instills your child with the importance of keeping the home clean and beautiful.

You can do this cleaning on your own, but you can also most certainly have your children help you. Providing them with a responsibility like to yours will help develop their leadership skills and boost their self-esteem.

This is the same way we would encourage them at school.

Staying Home & Social Distancing

One of the most difficult and most crucial ways to lower the risk of children getting COVID-19 is by limiting their contact with others.

You can determine boundaries. This can work through staying informed. Stay up to date on whether coronavirus in schools is a major problem, knowing how many cases are in your state, or not taking your child to public gatherings.

It seems simple enough to say “no” to a visit to the local playground or a birthday party, but we all know it's a lot harder than it sounds when it comes to excited and persistent kids.

Offering family activities, or a walk through the neighborhood, as an alternative option can reduce the sadness your child might be experiencing.

Now is Not Forever

It's important to remember that now is not forever when it comes to anything.

For now, we can all do our part in preventing children getting COVID-19, but, soon enough, we will not have to worry any more as long as we all work together.

When that time soon arrives, we hope you find  Arrow Montessori School  as a valuable resource to continue uplifting your child and walking alongside them in order to encourage them to be the best that they can be for the world. We are always happy to talk with you about our many different programs and answer inquiries about enrollment.

4 Ways an Early Education Can Benefit Your Child

Mon, 02 Mar 2020 05:55:03 GMT

In 2017, 40% of 3-year-olds and 86% of 5-year-olds were enrolled in preprimary education. Are you trying to decide whether your child should join them?

You may be asking yourself, why is early childhood education important? Is it worth it to send my child to school when they are still so young?

In reality, there are many benefits of preschool, especially when it is done in a playful, engaging way. Kids that are allowed the freedom to experiment and explore in a safe setting will be getting a headstart on life.

Not convinced? Check out these great benefits of early childhood education.

1. Instills a Love of Learning

Kids are curious. It's a natural part of growing up.

Watch any toddler and you'll see them trying to get into anything and everything. Contrary to what their frazzled parents might think, they don't do it to misbehave. They do it because they want to understand how something works.

By starting fun, interactive learning in early childhood, educators and parents can take advantage of this natural inclination and instill a lifelong love of learning.

2. Social Skills

Children aren't born with a natural inclination to share or the ability to empathize with another person. Getting them around other kids at a young age, in a safe environment, gives them the chance to learn important social lessons early on.

Shy children have a chance to come out of their shells. Bossy children begin to learn that not everyone wants to do things their way. Educators can help them learn these lessons in a safe, impactful way, helping them to become well-adjusted adults later on in life.

3. Physical Activity

Physical movement is important in the early years. Kids are naturally energetic and active. Educators can and should encourage physical activity, in a controlled environment.

Games, time on the playground, playing pretend, and other activities are all ways that kids can be active. Though not doing formal exercise, this will help set a solid foundation for healthy exercise habits in the future.

Plus, all that activity is helping their bodies to develop. Balance, strength, coordination, reflexes — all are important and are developed through physical activity.

4. Language Skills

You've probably heard someone say that the brain of a small child is like a sponge. It's true! They absorb everything they experience and their brain is hard at work cataloging all the things they're learning and figuring out how to understand it.

Learning a language is incredibly difficult, ask anyone who has done it as an adult. Yet kids have an even bigger task. They have to learn everything from scratch.

Whereas an adult can learn the translation of the word “big”, kids have to figure out that “big” refers to the size of an object. It's a lot of work!

The more exposure kids have to language, through examples, stories, games, and more, the faster they can understand it.

Why Is Early Childhood Education Important?

In sum, preschool has mental, physical, social, and educational benefits.

So, why is early childhood education important? Children who attend school early get a chance to learn and grow and stretch their capabilities.

Looking for a fun, engaging preschool program? Contact us today for more information on our preschool-k program!

How A Montessori Education Can Prepare Children For Their Future

Wed, 01 Jan 2020 05:58:06 GMT

If you choose a Montessori education for your children, there are many benefits that they are likely to experience immediately and in the future.

Children who are educated at a Montessori school are likely to develop a love for learning, have improved self-esteem, develop better leadership skills, and have a stronger community awareness.

Improve your child's grades throughout their academic career

Not only can this unique educational system lead to significant improvements in your child's grades, but it's also designed to improve their ability to understand complex problems.

In addition, Montessori education can instill a love of learning, which can last through adulthood.

Improve your child's leadership skills

Getting a Montessori education can make children more confident in their leadership abilities. Specifically, it can make them able to learn from feedback more effectively, be better able to solve complex problems and have improved teamwork skills.

All of these things can improve leadership skills, which is one of many reasons why a Montessori school can offer your children an excellent opportunity.

Improve your child's self-esteem

Having healthy self-esteem can help to improve your child's sense of well-being, boost academic performance, and lead to improvements in many areas of their life.

The way that the Montessori educational system ensures this is by making sure that students know that their ideas are important and valuable.

Not only does this lead to more classroom participation and discussion, but it can make former Montessori school students more likely to present their ideas in the workplace later in life.

Make your child more aware of the world around them

The Montessori style of teaching helps to guide children toward awareness of the fact that everyone has their own unique and valuable set of strengths.

This helps to improve their understanding and respect for other people in their community.

A Montessori education helps to ensure that kids are aware of environmental issues and what each individual can do to solve them, which is extremely important in today's world.

Christmas Fun Activities For Children

Thu, 19 Dec 2019 06:01:14 GMT

Christmas is just around the corner, and children are super excited about their long holidays at schools. Private Montessori Schools suggest that kids should be physically active and energetic throughout the vacations so that they can avoid the fear and anxiety of getting back to school after holidays. There are various activity ideas on Christmas vacations that you can use to keep your child busy and entertained. They can participate in decorations, make and pack gifts and cook Christmas goodies.

Festival Decorations

The most fun activity during Christmas vacations is to decorate the house and the home garden. Children studying in Montessori Middle School Program can also help their parents in adorning walls, making cookies and other delicacies at home. An easy yet creative activity is to create a Christmas wreath using a paper plate, silver or gold spray paint, and pasta.

Christmas Gifts

Kids love to create handmade gifts for their friends and family members. This is one of the most favorite festival activities for children that they enjoy most and share the happiness of giving the gifts. Making a calendar is quite an easy and simple gift option for children. It can be made and printed on a PC and later the kid can paint and prettify the surrounding.

Wrapping

Creating fun Christmas cards and making wrapping paper are also fun activity ideas for Christmas festival. The paper can be created by decorating big sheets of blank white paper. Kids can paint or color those sheets with their favorite shades like blue, pink, red, orange or any other color. Later, these colored papers are printed with the sponge and given the different shapes of Christmas trees and star, and flowers.

Christmas Cooking

For children going to Montessori Middle School Program, cooking for Christmas occasion is the best idea. You can guide your child to help and make their favorite candies and fudges. Cookies and pancakes are also great cooking choices and can be gifted to others.

Some private Montessori schools also start preparing their students to take active participation in several activities at school that include decorating the classroom and creating crafts and greeting cards. There are several activities that you can use to keep your child entertained and engaged while enjoying their holidays. Parents can also try activities such as games, Christmas puzzles and countless other fun yet educational activities.

Teaching Kids About Exercise

Fri, 08 Dec 2017 06:02:03 GMT

Encouraging kids to exercise and physical activity is significant for parents to give their children a good start for life. The workout is essential for keeping your child fit and healthy. For children, games and other outdoor activities act like a workout program. The first phase is supporting kids to make physical activity on a regular basis.

Why Children need Guidance on Exercise

Any physical activity and movements help a child to develop not only physically but also mentally. They grow their social skills and ability to learn fast. It has a great effect on cognitive skills, emotional and social growth – in generall the overall personality of a child.

Start Early

Early childhood is a great time to instill good practices so that your child enjoy exercises and physical activities instead of staying away from it. Starting at the early stage means getting the health benefits since the beginning. Any exercise form from moderate to hard physical activity helps the brain to get required oxygen and glucose, which is vital for optimal performance.

Tip to get your Family Moving

Children like to run and play, but if they notice that fitness is not a priority for their parents, they may get the motivation to be idle and lazy. Parents should be a role model and should promote workout to their kids by ensuring that they get sufficient space, time and opportunities to play.

Sometimes you should play with your child if there are no playmates, it will help your child to think that playing is essential for them. However, children should also play on their own so that they can grow creative self-expression, problem-solving skills, and conflict resolution.

Dance Together

Most children love to dance, and this is one of the most exciting games among them. All they need is good music and a little motivation. Parents should dance with their kids to encourage them for different dance moves.

There are a number of outdoor games that your child can play on the playground or at home that include Jumping Rope, hula hoop, bicycle or bike riding, basketball. These playful activities are good for keeping your child stay fit.

 Arrow Montessori School  is one of the most reputed and preferred Montessori schools in San Dimas, CA . The school offers a range of learning programs for children for all age groups. Arrow's most chosen programs include preschool-kindergarten program, daycare for an infant to toddler, elementary programs, middle school, summer programs, swimming lessons and international student program.

Tips To Keep Children Healthy During the School Year

Thu, 26 Oct 2017 06:11:57 GMT

A school is a place where children learn to be independent and grow cognitive and social skills. Since a kid spends many hours in his classroom, they have more chances of transmitting infections and germs to each other. However, by teaching your little one a few essential healthy habits, you can help him to stay healthy and fit during the school year.

Healthy Breakfast and Lunch

Healthy and nutritious food are very important for maintaining the high energy level all through the day. Give your child a brain-boosting healthy breakfast and lunch filled with protein, carbohydrates, fiber, and vitamins. Try to make lunches fun and creative so that your child does not skip the meal.

Encourage your Child for Proper Hand Washing

It’s very important to teach your child about the significance of handwashing. Hand sanitation is the most important way to avert the spread of diseases and germs in the classroom and around. By teaching your kid to clean his hands properly, especially before eating, parents can aid their child to decrease the risk of infection.

Take care of immune system health

Boosting your child’s immune system health is a great way to help him stay healthy and free of illness all through the school year. The Strong immune system can reduce your kid's risk of flu, cold and other infectious diseases.

Good Sleeping Habits

Getting sufficient sleep is a very important factor in a healthy lifestyle. It's vital for your kid's physical and mental health, helping him to do well in studies and school. So make sure that your kid gets adequate sleep every day.

Pick a Right School Bag

Children are already dealing with heavy school bags and using the incorrect kind of bag and wearing it the wrong way can cause back pain. Make sure, you are choosing correct school backpacks to stop back problems in your kid.

Spot Anxiety Issues in your Child

Due to studies, tests, homework and social stress, your child may face hard situations. According to reports, anxiety and stress can cause a negative impact on your child’s health. It’s important to find out the signs of stress in your little one and help him to solve it.

Healthy after-School Snacks

Children are often hungry after coming back from their school. You should try to make most of it by giving them healthy and nutritious after-school snacks. Montessori School encourages students to eat properly and healthy.

 Arrow Montessori School  is known as one of the best private schools in San Dimas, CA . Contact us for any inquiry about admission and learning programs.

Importance of Social Studies in Schools

Wed, 13 Sep 2017 06:12:54 GMT

Present learning standards require students to achieve a deeper outlook on citizenship, the humanity, the globe and history than just remembering about the events, dates, and facts. Teachers in middle school educate social studies to help students know the importance of geography, political beliefs, cultural divergence and past events. This subject allows students to look at the History part in the daily lives. Getting knowledge about the history books on how class, gender, race, nationality, and language affected citizens in the past helps children to recognize the material in a more special mode that goes beyond the simple date memorization. It has various aspects of focuses that include the following:

Geography
Anthropology
Sociology
Economics
Culture
Archaeology
History
Political science
Civics

Benefits of Social Studies

Knowledge of World Affairs

Social studies topics cover world government, political affiliations, alliances and conflicts that help students get a holistic vision of how countries work together. Children will get to know about the causes of the battle, the financial concerns of each nation, and what the international functions are as the outcome of interactions between numerous countries.

Citizenship Skills

Students in San Dimas schools also get familiar with the ways the democratic system functions like how society and its people are represented by officials and the way the voting procedure works. Usually, the course also requires children to take part in various learning projects and community events to know how people work collectively to form a functioning society.

Critical Thoughts

Social studies help students grow their critical thinking ability by evaluating decisions taken by prominent leaders in the past. Students get the advantages of getting knowledge from other peoples’ errors because they discover more about the winning and fail decisions made in the past by leaders.

Knowledge of World Civilizations

Social study subject also teaches students about the record of world civilizations, how they grew, what made them fail, and where present countries stand in the past. They learn about the reasons why countries are situated in certain parts, from causes such as landmass and resources to reasons like conflicts and technical advancement.

San Dimas middle school’s social studies cover different subjects such as economics, geography, and history. Teachers mix these areas in education that present opportunities for better student query, providing them chances to play a part in group debates about key events or problems around the world. Children explore all possible issues and suggest solutions connected to the same, helping in discussions and communication-building tests.

Imparting Valuable Social Skills to Preschool Children

Tue, 08 Aug 2017 06:14:42 GMT

Preschoolers have extremely vulnerable and easily influenced minds. It's really important to be very cautious of the behaviors you form in the presence of your infant. The preschool period is a time ready for learning major life and social skills.

Socialization is a lifetime process of following social customs and rules from studying and communicating with others in our civilization. Socialization starts with preschool stage, with young students looking up to teachers and peers for the ‘correct approach to behave.' This vulnerable segment of a growing kid can be connected to form a positive, compassionate, sharing and thoughtful child.

Social abilities, not just support us to plot a route for social conditions efficiently, but also build a foundation for making rewarding relationships, concerned communications and a common sense of companionship with others. We cannot deny the principles and beliefs that kids get throughout this tender time can continue to impact the mode they handle social circumstances as they get matured.

There are a few specific things that family members including parents and teachers in the school can do to make sure their kid learns essential social skills.

How to Aid a Child take in Social Skill

Talk about how other People may Feel or Think

If you wish to see your child grow as a considerate and well-behaved person, you have to frequently expose him to the expected inner worlds of other individuals. Talk about what a buddy or classmate your kid shouted at may feel. Do not avoid sympathizing with your own little one's feelings too.

Model the type of Manners you want for your Child to show

One more complementary technique of coaching effective social skills to preschoolers is to model compassionate, thoughtful and caring manners in front of them. For a kid, his parents are the perfect role models. You should give importance to this accolade and behave well.

Understand your Child

Children in preschool and kindergarten may get dominant or violent sometimes. It's not essentially a symbol of a temperamental persona. It's just that a kid may be learning to find his way in a society that doesn't constantly react in sort to their demands.

Parents should not misuse their right by shouting at or intimidating their kid to do what they want. Do not impose your wish on them. However, there's no harm to interrupt them when they do something wrong.

Fun Learning Programs in Elementary Schools

Thu, 29 Jun 2017 06:15:20 GMT

Learning is essential for a growing mind in children. Different subjects teach kids about creative, logical and critical thinking. Their knowledge about the world starts in the classroom and go on with them all through their lives. Extracurricular activities provide children an opportunity to change this attitude into practical skills. They also learn lots of new things through these activities and fun filled programs.

Science Fairs

Often people remember working on a particular science fair project as a kid. These Science related projects give children a practical approach and experience with major subjects like engineering, math, and science. They get hands-on experience through research and experimentation. Also, it’s an effective method for parents to help their child in his education by completing a project.

Sports

Many elementary schools offer games to students ranging from gymnastics to swimming. Sports provide an opportunity for kids to meet people and build relations outside of the classroom. Also, sports play a major role in growing the mind and body of a child. Kids learn to think critically with proper strategy and approach while competing individually or to play in a group. A competitive game and activity also boost sportsmanship qualities such as integrity, honest and fairness in children.

Drama

Some elementary schools encourage their students for performing arts and drama by helping them explore their internal entertainer and uncover their influence. By providing them healthy surroundings to learn the art, these schools help students grow their confidence and remove their fear of performing on stage. Children get the chance to meet like minded people, make creative choices, discover new ideas and articulate themselves through dialogue and stage activity.

Music and Dance

According to reports, kids who learn music and art at a young age have better chances of great academic performances. Their brains grow more sets of neurons that boost the sound discrimination and fine motor skills. Music knowledge helps a child to become skilled in a language, and they may even notice an improvement in their math examination.

Summer Camp And Fun-Filled Activities

Fri, 26 May 2017 06:18:05 GMT

Summer camps offer different kinds of fun-filled activities for children to keep them busy. Kids learn significant life lessons and skills that make them confident. In summers, children have more time to discover their interests and find new hobbies. Some Montessori schools, organize summer camps so that kids can spend their holidays in an outdoor atmosphere. These summer camps allow your children to learn several activities including artistic and athletic activities. They make new friends and explore the advantages of trying new things.

Swimming Lessons - Develop Water Safety

Kids love the summer season as it brings holidays for them. For some children, summer and swimming are synonymous, and they could spend the entire time in the water. In Summer Programs, kids get a chance to learn swimming skill in a heated and shallow pool. Regular training will improve their swimming skills and make them more comfortable in the pool. Swimming is an important skill that everyone should learn.

Art - Practice their Craft

Inventive summer camps are intended to help young artists to carry out their craft practice while meeting and interacting with peers with the same interests. In these camps, your little one can dive into the inventive arts and discover advanced acting skills in theater class. On the other hand, your growing musician kid can sharpen their talent with music classes. They can also join dance classes in these summer camps.

Build up Sports Skills

Summer camp also allows children to learn their favorite sports. Learning gymnastics or any other game during summer program can strengthen their skills. Additionally, they can also learn Tae Kwon Do, Judo and other kinds of helpful activities. Some other popular sports include soccer, baseball, and basketball.

Educational Activities

Educational programs in summer camps are intended for kids interested in some particular subjects. Sometimes, they can assist prepare students for forthcoming regular tests. Many educational camps have stringent schedules just like a busy day in school. Other kinds of program offer more non-traditional learning methods. Arrow Montessori offers summer school camp with STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math).

Group Leading Skills

Summer camps also help your children to grow their leadership skills. Teachers always seek new ways to put them in leadership positions. Skills learned at school summer camp easily transmit to other activities in life at home. And the self-confidence they grow from attempting new challenges is going to be with them throughout life.