MonthlyThemes

The staff of White Pines Montessori Academy have planned monthly themes as part of our learning curriculum. Students will be introduced to new concepts, including participating in fun activities, all related to the specific monthly theme. We also encourage students to contribute by bringing in books or related items for the monthly theme which they can share with their fellow classmates.

September

Back to School

October

Fall / Harvest

November

All about Canada

December

Celebrations Around The World

January

Planets

February

Valentines/Montessori Week

March

Spirit Week/Spring break

April

Earth Month

May

International Month

June

Life Cycles

Toddler Room

The Montessori toddler classroom includes mostly Practical Life materials, with many “pre-Montessori” materials that are typically used with this age group even in non-Montessori settings (puzzles, stringing beads, etc.) Cultural lessons are generally included in the language part of the classroom; including learning about weather, the calendar, and basic names of objects in the classroom and in nature.

Staff
  • Ms. Locaso
    (Infant & Toddler Montessori Guide)
  • Ms. Bravo
    (Assistant Guide)
  • Ms. Garcia
    (Toddler RECE Guide)

Casa 1

Our Casa 1 classroom is for children age 2-1/2 to 6 years

Through manipulation of specific materials, children develop important life skills, co-ordination, concentration and self-confidence. Guides present lessons individually as well as in small groups and materials are attractive and inviting so that they capture the interest of the child.

Staff
  • Mrs. Mericel
    (Casa Montessori Guide)
  • Ms. Renna
    (Casa RECE)
  • Mrs. Anuja
    (Casa Montessori Guide)

Casa 2

Our Casa 2 classroom is for children age 2-1/2 to 6 years

Materials used will involve the children in precise movements that encourage their ability to concentrate, work at their own pace without interruption, and to complete and enjoyable and challenging activity. Within this are Four areas of focus: Control of Movement, Care of Person, Care of the Environment and Grace and Courtesy. Practical Life Activities such as pouring, sweeping, dusting, buttoning, zipping and table setting are introduced early, providing opportunities for children to care for themselves and thus their journey towards independence begins.

Staff
  • Mrs. Bodei
    (Casa Montessori Guide)
  • Mrs. Bravo
    (Casa Montessori Guide)

Casa 3

Our Casa 3 classroom includes mostly Practical Life materials. Practical Life Activities such as pouring, sweeping, dusting, buttoning, zipping and table setting are introduced early, providing opportunities for children to care for themselves and thus their journey towards independence begins. Children are introduced to preliminary Casa activities.

Staff
  • Mrs. Rosa
    (Toddler/Infant Montessori Guide)
  • Mrs. Deeyann
    (Casa RECE)
The Five Areas of a Montessori Classroom:
Practical Life:

Practical Life exercises instill care for self, for others, and, for the environment . These activities include some of the daily routines the children have already observed at home: preparing food, washing dishes, dressing oneself, and practicing accepted societal rules of grace and courtesy. Practical life activities serve to enhance muscular coordination and to develop powers of concentration and control.

Sensorial:

Sensorial materials are designed to develop cognitive skills and to help children classify and order impressions by touching, seeing, smelling, tasting, listening, and, exploring all the physical properties of their environment.

Language:

The Montessori classroom is rich in oral language opportunities, allowing the child to experience conversation, poetry and stories. Children effortlessly link sound to symbol while tracing sandpaper letters with their fingers. Thus, encouraging the natural progression of written expression and reading skills.

Mathematics:

Mathematical activities help children learn and understand the concepts of math by manipulating concrete materials. The work helps children acquire a solid understanding of basic mathematical principles and prepares them for later abstractive reasoning.

Geography & Cultural Studies:

Geography, biology, botany, zoology, art, and, music are presented as extensions of language activities and are integrated into the environment as part of the curriculum. Children learn about people and cultures in other countries with an attitude of respect and admiration. Through familiarity, children come to feel connected to the global human family. Lessons and experiences with nature, inspire a reverence for all life. Art and music in the classroom give the children the opportunity to enjoy creative activities, as well as gain knowledge of the great masters.

Music & French

The Casa program includes 30 minutes of French once a week, 30 minutes of Music once a week and Physical Activities.

Staff
  • Miss. Silvia
    (Music Guide)
  • Madame Mazane
    (French Guide)