At Belleview Montessori School, the early childhood years are a time of tremendous growth, exploration, and discovery. Our Early Childhood programs, tailored for children ages 2 to 5, are designed to support this critical stage of development by providing a nurturing and stimulating environment that encourages independence, creativity, and a deep sense of curiosity.
In these formative years, children begin to develop the foundational skills that will carry them through their educational journey and beyond. Our classrooms are thoughtfully prepared to offer a balance of freedom and structure, allowing each child to progress at their own pace and explore their unique interests. The curriculum is rich with hands-on learning experiences that foster cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development.
Whether through the exploration of nature, the mastery of language and mathematics, or the understanding of cultural and scientific concepts, our programs are committed to guiding each child toward becoming a confident, compassionate, and capable learner. The Early Childhood program at Belleview Montessori School lays the groundwork for lifelong success, instilling in each child a love for learning and a strong sense of self.
Young 2s – 2 years to 3 years
Program Name: Explorer’s Cottage
The Young 2s program is tailored for children who are beginning to assert their independence and curiosity more boldly. At this stage, children are ready for activities that challenge their motor skills, language development, and social interactions. The Explorer’s Cottage provides an environment that supports their growing need for routine, exploration, and self-expression. Materials are chosen to be engaging and developmentally appropriate, allowing children to learn through play and experimentation. This program helps children build a foundation of confidence and a love of learning that will carry them through the preschool years.
3-Year-Old Classroom – 3 years to 4 years
Program Name: Discovery Den
As children move into the 3-Year-Old Classroom, they are ready to dive deeper into structured learning experiences that build on the foundations laid in earlier stages. The Discovery Den focuses on refining motor skills, enhancing language abilities, and introducing early mathematical concepts in a hands-on, engaging way. Social interaction is emphasized, with children learning to work in groups, share ideas, and develop empathy. The classroom environment is composed of six key areas:
- Sensorial: This area helps children explore concepts like dimensions, textures, smells, temperature, sound/pitch, and colors, enhancing their sensory perception.
- Practical Life: Activities in this area, such as washing, polishing, and food preparation, help children develop fine motor skills, concentration, and independence.
- Language: Using tools like sandpaper letters and movable alphabets, children learn letter sounds, phonics, and early reading skills. The environment is rich with oral language experiences, allowing for vocabulary growth and early literacy.
- Mathematics: Montessori math materials guide children in number recognition, quantity, place value, and basic operations, laying a solid mathematical foundation.
- Geography & Culture: Children explore maps, flags, and historical facts, fostering respect and compassion for different cultures and communities.
- Science: Concepts such as botany and zoology are introduced, along with the classification of animals, helping children develop a deeper understanding of the natural world.
4-Year-Old Classroom – 4 years to 5 year
Program Name: Pathfinders Room
In the final year before kindergarten, the Pathfinders Room provides an environment that balances academic readiness with emotional and social development. Children engage in more complex activities that build critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaborative skills. The program is designed to ensure that each child is well-prepared for the next step in their educational journey, with a strong foundation in both academic knowledge and social-emotional resilience. The classroom is similarly structured around the six areas—Sensorial, Practical Life, Language, Mathematics, Geography & Culture, and Science—each offering increasingly advanced materials and activities that challenge the children while nurturing their growth.