Primary
3-6 years
Our Primary program is a three year cycle designed to meet the needs of individual children within a community-like setting. The needs of the children are met through the interplay of a specially prepared environment, a directress, assistants and the children. The successful result is a group of happy children, who are involved in activities that contribute to their sense of competency and self-satisfaction.
Children from three to six years old are grouped together in each class, providing a family like setting, where learning can take place naturally. Equal numbers of each age group: 3’s, 4’s and 5’s create an optimum dynamic for learning. Younger children learn from older children; older children share what they have learned while reinforcing their own learning and self-confidence. This mixed-age environment is a core feature of authentic Montessori Primary programs.
Classes are conducted in bright, cheerful rooms, stocked with complete sets of Montessori materials. These materials, which are self-correcting, are specially designed to correspond to the needs and interests of the three to six year old.
The Primary curriculum integrates several focus areas into a fully comprehensive three year program
Practical Life
Practical Life exercises such as polishing, buttoning and pouring improve motor skills while aiding the development of independence, control and concentration.
Sensorial
Sensorial exercises enable the child to compare, classify and clarify the world around them. Many of these materials are precursors to mathematics and geometry.
Math
Math exercises use concrete manipulative materials which help the child to learn abstract concepts of math, such as sequence, place value, operations and memorization of math facts.
Language
Language exercises begin with a solid foundation in spoken language, which aids the development of vocabulary and phonemic awareness. The development of writing and reading are encouraged, using a variety of tactile and manipulative materials.
Cultural Studies
Cultural Studies are presented as extensions of the sensorial and language activities. They introduce the child to the basics of the world’s geography, geology, history, astronomy and biology, through materials and stories.
Art and Music
Art and Music are incorporated into daily classroom activities. The comprehensive music and art programs give the child every opportunity to enjoy a variety of creative activities, as well as gain knowledge of the great masters.
Hours
- Primary half-day for ages 3 to 5: 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Monday – Friday
- Primary II for ages 5 & older: 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Monday – Friday
All of the activities are directed toward helping children develop positive attitudes about themselves, their world and learning.
FAQ's about our Primary Program
“MSO has made such a positive impact in my children’s lives, setting them on a course for independent learning and curiosity that will guide them for life. It has also made a positive impact on our family overall providing a space where we have made lifelong friends.”
Diana Rothe-Smith
“The solid Montessori program is what brought us to the school initially, but it is the heart of MSO which has kept us here."
An MSO Parent
“I have three grandchildren attending The Montessori School of Oakton. They love it and they love learning!"
A Montessori Grandparent
“We would like to thank you for giving our two girls a great foundation. We were happy to be a part of the MSO family for three years."
