NWO Montessori

Will my child be ready for public school?

Absolutely!  The Montessori materials, individualized curriculum and one-on-one attention ensure that your child will be ready for any elementary school that you wish to send them to after NWO Montessori.  Maria Montessori observed that children are more motivated to learn when they have choices and are able to explore things that interest them.  While our children get to choose their own activities, they are not going at it alone.  The teachers are closely observing each child, ready to gently guide them as needed, whether it is extra one-on-one help, encouragement or new activities for their abilities.

Why are the children doing “work”?  Shouldn’t they be playing?

Maria Montessori believed that children’s play is their work, and so she used the term to describe all of their classroom activities out of respect for the effort children put into curiosity, exploration, discovery and learning.  Whether it is painting, building with blocks, writing sentences, cutting, gluing or pouring a glass of water (or spilling it and cleaning it up!) children are constantly learning about their environment and developing new skills.

In addition to “work time” when children explore the many different activities in the classroom, children at NWO Montessori also have story time, sing songs, dance, play in the outdoor and indoor playgrounds, and have weekly visits to the creativity center and science room down the hall.

Why are there different age groups in the same class?

Sometimes parents worry about having younger children mixed in with the same class as older ones, concerned that one group or the other will miss out.  The Montessori approach is actually designed to address the needs and development of all of the children in the classroom.  The class is designed to encompass a 2-3 year time span, which allows the younger student to learn from the older children, and the older children to benefit by acting as role models.  At NWO Montessori each child learns at their own pace, not at the teacher’s schedule.  Because children typically stay in the same class for multiple years, students develop a strong sense of community with their classmates and teachers.

I’ve heard a lot about bullying in pre-school and kindergarten.  What does your school do about bullying?

We recognize that bullying is a problem that cannot be ignored.  Our goal is not just to deal with any issues that may arise in the classroom, but also to teach children skills to deal with bullies as they get older.  One of the most important things we work on is to help children develop a positive sense of self-worth.  We also use the peace rose in the classroom to help children learn to talk about their feelings.  Through the peace rose, children learn to 1) understand that their actions and words have consequences, 2) become comfortable talking about how they feel, and 3) problem solve in a meaningful way.

My child is advanced/delayed.  Can he or she benefit from your Montessori program?

Absolutely!  Because Montessori is an individualized program, all children can thrive in our school.  Children who are academically advanced can be continually challenged, and those who need more help will benefit from one-on-one attention by the teacher.  We strive to celebrate every child in our school.  Regardless of abilities, all children will be welcomed with care and encouragement.

What is your inclement weather policy?

NWO Montessori will only close if there is a Level 3 severe weather emergency in Bowling Green.  During inclement weather days the children are able to take recess in the inside playground, a fun treat for everyone.

Does my child need to be potty-trained?

No, your child does not have to be potty-trained to attend NWO Montessori.  We will work together with you and your child on potty-training as needed.

Are there opportunities for parents to be involved?

We welcome parents to become involved in the school if they would like.  We have parents volunteer with science projects, holiday parties, cultural events and one-on-one reading. Parents are an important part of our community and are always welcome!

My child has never been away from family.  What will you do to help with the transition?

First of all, we promise that we will welcome your child gently and with great care.  We will work as a team with you and your child to transition in the way that is best for YOUR child.  Every child has different needs, some children will jump right in and never look back, and some will need to ease in more slowly.  We will follow your child’s lead. Some options are a series of short visits, bringing in pictures from home or a favorite stuffed animal, or having a parent stay nearby in the beginning.  We will work with you to do what is best for your child.

Transitioning can also be hard for parents.  We encourage you to call for updates, to come for lunch or a visit, or to watch through our one-way window.  Preschool/kindergarten is  a wonderful experience and the first step on a lifetime of learning.