Pre-Primary (Toddler)
14-36 months
“The goal of early childhood education should be to activate the child’s own natural desire to learn.”
In the Pre-Primary classroom (Toddler) students utilize both the inside and outside prepared environments, using Montessori materials and engaging in activities. Students take nature walks and play on our large playground area.
The Pre-Primary community serves students from ages 14 months to 3 years old. All students must walk steadily without aid to safely join this community. The students spend their day in a carefully prepared environment that is designed to foster independence, practical life skills, sensorial exploration, and language development. Our gardening and nature walk activities allow the students to investigate the natural world around them. The students work on fine and gross motor skills, learning to care for themselves, their classmates, and the classroom.
The Pre-Primary environments are designed for the youngest students to move freely between lessons and activities. Tables, chairs, and benches are all designed to be low to the ground for better stability and access. Montessori materials are specifically designed for this age group to help develop the care of self and increase vocabulary. Students have social interactions throughout the day, building on life skills centered around independent and group work. They gain confidence and independence with support from the guides and assistants.
Toileting plays a big role in the work of a child at this age as the guide partners with parents to provide a consistent approach both at home and at school. The student learns to use the toilet with the support of the guide and assistants. Students practice the coordination needed to dress themselves, gain skills through practical life lessons, and become independent in choosing work within the classroom environment.
Snacks are available in the morning and afternoon for all students, as well as lunch. Menu items include fresh fruits, vegetables, proteins, and grains to help promote proper nutrition. Hydrating with water throughout the day and milk for lunch are also encouraged. Students gain the ability to sit properly at the table and to ask for additional portions using grace and courtesy lessons from the Montessori curriculum.
Program Hours
Smart Start offers three different options for all students. All programs are 5 days a week. Before school care is offered from 6:30am – 8:00am. The school day program begins at 8:15am – 3:15pm. After school care begins from 3:15pm – 6:00pm.