Programs for Children
Programs for ChildrenInfant/Toddler Level Overview9 Months - 3 years (available 2-5 mornings or 2-5 days/week) New Offerings
A definition of the world as a safe place in which one's unique self can flourish and find meaning begins at this developmental stage. Our toddler community knows that each child is a special individual, full of potential. The child's experiences away from home are carefully constructed. Children are nurtured and empowered. Classrooms are inviting; materials are appropriately stimulating. Movement is encouraged. Meaningful, ordered activities satisfy developmental needs. Our trained Montessori Faculty uses richly expressive language to accompany every action. The children thrive. Children’s House Level Overview3 to 6 years Children's House is available to children ranging from 3 to 6 years of age and is the natural entry level for 3 year olds. It is in this period that a child's inherent desire to learn becomes apparent. During this phase of the child's Stepping Stones education; concentration, coordination, independence, and a sense of order are encouraged. Parents will see their children developing initiative, inner discipline, and a deep respect for themselves, others, and their environment. Children completing Children’s House naturally transition to our Elementary Level. Elementary I & II Level(6 to 9) & (9 to 12) years
Elementary I covers the ages of 6-9 years. At this stage, the child enters a classroom where he or she will be for the next three years, with the same teacher and peer group. In an environment of continuity, this unique feature of the Stepping Stones curriculum promotes creativity, builds self-esteem, and allows the development of leadership skills as the older children naturally become mentors for their younger classmates. With a heightened sense of curiosity, a well developed problem solving ability, and a greater sensitivity to the environment, the child begins, in earnest, to attack the traditional discipline of mathematics, literature and science. It is at this stage, too, that the child begins to broaden his or her cultural boundaries through active participation in the areas of art, music, creative dramatics, and foreign languages. In these years, the child has become accustomed to success and treats the obstacles he or she encounters as simply new challenges to overcome. The Elementary II covers the ages of 9-12 years. This is the level of completion of the Stepping Stones Montessori student. Upon completion of the Elementary School levels, SSMS children are well prepared to face future challenges. They leave Stepping Stones Montessori with a strong sense of self, a solid academic experience, and, most importantly, a love of learning that will serve them well for the rest of their lives. Stepping Stones Montessori School graduates transition successfully into other school settings. "The teacher's role at Stepping Stones Montessori is not to force interest or entertain students. Rather, it is to create a 'learning environment' where the child is continually challenged to reach his or her maximum learning potential." - Holden Lowing, Stepping Stones Elementary II Teacher. |
The first three years of life are full of exuberant growth. Movement, language and personal independence mature more rapidly now than at any other time. Our Infant/Young Toddler classroom is a community of children ages 9 months to 20 months. Our Toddler classroom is composed of children 21-36 months.
The Montessori Elementary levels build on the foundation of the Children’s House (ages 3-6 years). Students entering at this level should have attended Stepping Stones Montessori or had a comparable Montessori experience.