Town and Country Montessori School

Q. Why does the school insist on a five day school week program?

It has been our experience that young children gain comfort in familiarity and routine. By having all our students attend on a five day a week basis, the child knows that he can count on seeing the same friends and teachers each day he comes to school. We have found it to be helpful for our new students to establish a rhythm to their school week, and have often heard from new parents that earlier hesitation with regard to the schedule was quickly allayed once the school year began and they couldn't wait for "Phase-in" to end.

Q. What is "Phase-in"?

The Phase in program is designed to provide a graduated increase in the amount of time our students spend at school during the first two weeks of school. We feel that children are reassured that they will be picked up by their parents before the classroom experience becomes overwhelming to them. This is a time for children to learn classroom ground rules and exercising a new kind of self-control in a larger group setting then many have previously experienced. As their stamina increases, so does their time in the classroom. As the time frame expands, so does the variety of materials for them to choose to work with during their time at school.

Q. Will my child know anyone when they begin?

Town and Country Montessori School provides a mentoring program for the newest members of our school community. Each child and family is paired with a returning family to ease the transition into the school by providing a familiar face when the school year begins in September.

Q. What will my child do all morning?

As a parent you know there is no such thing as a "typical day" in the life of a young child. However, during the course of the morning your child will probably come together in a shared circle, be introduced to relevant and engaging lessons on a one-on-one or group basis with the teachers, have a snack, and work independently on self-directed work choices, and have the opportunity to socialize with other children. Of course, weather permitting; each morning would not be complete without some time on the playground.

Q. How can I become involved?

There are many opportunities to volunteer your time, talents, and energies at Town and Country Montessori both inside the classroom and among the school community. Early in the school year, sign up sheets for volunteer opportunities are posted and we encourage all parents to participate in whatever manner they are most comfortable.

Q. Where can I learn more about the Montessori method?

The school has numerous books available in our Parent library for those who want to read more about Dr. Montessori's work.