Pre-K, Kindergarten

Children in our Pre-K, Kindergarten Programs receive Montessori curriculum in a year-round private Kindergarten setting, with teachers devoted to each student’s development.

A child entering a Pre-K or Kindergarten Montessori program will develop cognitively in a number of ways.  Language skills such as reading comprehension, spelling, writing, and verbal speech are all supported through the integrated curriculum. Letters are taught first by their sound (phonics), rather than their “name,” which leads seamlessly to reading. Kindergarten students progress from tracing letters to writing on their own, and from sounding out individual letters, to reading stories.

Students also progress through math concepts, by utilizing manipulatives. Students learn not only to count, but the concept of quantity based on how many physical objects they have. Students learn skills in numeration, place value, and mathematical operations. Kindergarten students begin to develop abstract math skills, based off of the concrete work they’ve done during their work blocks.

Students learn concepts of physical science through observation and experimentation. Montessori science education emphasizes the connection between humans and the surrounding environment.

Kindergarten students also study world cultures and geography. Montessori map puzzles are a common sight in the hands of a Kindergarten student, and these skills are complemented by learning about history, music, food, and art from around the world.

Kindergarten students develop socially throughout their Montessori curriculum. Students display respect and kindness through their interactions with each other and their environment. Children are given the independence to select their own work and materials, and are expected to replace their materials out of respect for the classroom and their classmates. When given this responsibility from a young age, the Kindergarten student will rise to the occasion, and take pride in not only their work, but their independence and learn to respect others and their environment.

Montessori Kindergarten Program

The kindergarten year is a time when many of a child’s earliest lessons come together, becoming a permanent part of their understanding. The kindergarten curriculum is carefully structured and integrated to highlight connections between different areas of learning.

In Language Arts: children build upon the foundation aid in preschool and pre-kindergarten. This stage sets them up for mastering essential skills such as reading, writing, spelling, penmanship, and handwriting. A strong grasp of reading and writing provides a solid base for integrating other subjects with ease.

In Mathematics, children explore the fundamental role math plays in the world around them. They learn the four basic operations in detail: addition, subtraction, multiplication and division. They are also introduced to geometry, helping them develop spatial awareness and problem-solving skills.

In Geography, students learn about the formation of the Earth and its place in the solar system. They are introduced to different landforms, countries, and continents, gaining an appreciation for the diversity of cultures across the world.

In Science, children explore the natural world through hands-on experiments and observations. They are introduced to basic scientific concepts such as the water cycle, plant growth, and the seasons. Students also begin to understand simple physical principles, such as how objects move and what causes changes in the environment. A focus on curiosity and exploration encourages children to ask questions and seek answers, laying the groundwork for future scientific learning.

Sensory Activities play a critical roles in enhancing children’s understanding of the world around them. Through activities that engage touch, sight, sound, taste, and smell, children refine their senses and cognitive skills. Using Montessori materials and other hands-on tools, children experience textures, patterns, and colors, fostering deeper exploration and learning through their senses.

Economics introduces children to basic concepts of trade, goods, and services in simple, age-appropriate ways. They explore the ideas of sharing, earning, and saving money, as well as how these concepts relate to everyday life. By using role-play and hands-on activities like a classroom store or a “market day,” children begin to understand how goods and services are exchanged, cultivating an early awareness of financial concepts.

These activities ensure that children develop a deep and lasting understanding of key concepts, fostering curiosity and a love for learning. Our schools approach kindergarten learning with an organized and prepared environment and a teacher trained to observe children, note their interests and continue to guide through new material, encouraging further growth.

Do you have questions about Montessori Kindergarten for your student? Contact us directly to ask, or tour!

Schools and child care are convenient to Eagan and Inver Grove Heights, and the surrounding areas of Apple Valley, Burnsville, Rosemount, South St. Paul and West St. Paul.