3 to 6 years: Preschool + Kindergarten
Many Rivers Montessori's Children’s House program serves children aged 3 to 6 years (including the Kindergarten year). For preschool-aged children, MRM's Children’s House program is a wonderful alternative to traditional preschool and childcare. The Kindergarten year is the capstone of the Children’s House program, providing critical preparation for First Grade as well as allowing children to take a leadership role in the multi-age environment.
The program meets five days a week. Children may attend for a Half day (8:30–11:30/noon) or for a Full day (8:30–3:30). Kindergarteners must attend school for a full day. Morning Care (7:30–8:30) and Afternoon Care (3:30–5:30) are available. Child Care is also available during most holidays and breaks. For tuition costs and packages, please see our tuition schedule.
Independence in toileting is required for entry into Children's House.
The Children’s House classroom is prepared with the children's individual developmental needs in mind. The furniture and environment are child-sized, and the classroom is equipped with a full set of Montessori materials. The Children’s House child experiences a unique education in the areas of practical life, sensorial, language and mathematics. The Children’s House classroom features a 1:10 teacher-to-student ratio.
A typical Children’s House day
7:30 - 8:30 Morning Care
8:20 Arrival
8:30 Morning Work Cycle
11:30 Outdoor Play
11:30/12:00 Half-day Pickup
12:15 Lunch
1:00 Afternoon Work Cycle Or Nap (Please click on link for MRM's Nap and Rest policy)
3:30 Full-day Pickup
3:30 - 5:30 Afternoon Care
Note: New to Children’s House students (whether or not they attended Many Rivers as Toddlers) follow an alternative schedule for the first week of school. Follow this link for a description.
the work
In the pictures, you can see some of the "work" our Children’s House children focus on and the materials they use. The number board, bead chains, metal insets, and meal preparation are just some of the works that focus on math, counting, hand-eye coordination and practical life.
how does the classroom operate?
In the classroom, the lead teacher provides direction to each child. Through exploration and discovery, learning is full of joy and intrigue. The Montessori Children’s House program comprises uninterrupted work cycles that lend time for independent repetition and reflection according to each child's style, pace and approach to learning. At this time in their lives, children are learning to think for themselves and to act on their intrinsic motivations. Learning daily lessons in grace and courtesy, the children together cultivate a harmonious social environment.
In a Montessori mixed-age community, the oldest children become models and inspiration for the youngest, consolidating their own knowledge, concepts, self-confidence, and sense of responsibility. Since a child builds on previous years' experiences and mastery of the materials, the three-to-four year program allows for growth toward healthy independence, and prepares the child for the next level of education.
Nondiscrimination Statement as to Students
Many Rivers Montessori values diversity in every aspect of the school community. It is the policy of MRM not to discriminate in violation of the law on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, sexual orientation, gender identity or disability in the administration of its admissions policies, educational policies, scholarship and loan programs, athletic programs and other school-related programs.