Our approach and philosophy
Over 100 years ago, Dr. Maria Montessori developed her theory of education after observing young children and paying close attention to how they learned. Aspen Hill Montessori teaching style and materials are modelled after her work.
Dr. Montessori's teaching methods focus on the “whole child”. When a child has been taught how to think, and is invested in directing their own learning, the following life skills emerge:
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Ability to concentrate well
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Sense of personal dignity
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Independence
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Self-motivation
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Love of order
Why would I consider a Montessori setting for my child?
Montessori methods engage the whole child and make learning a personal challenge rather than a chore. Children who experience self-directed learning from an early age train their minds to see life as a learning experience, and regularly pursue learning activities outside of school. If you have a child that is an eager learner and is an independent explorer of their world, a Montessori education can help to feed their curiosity.
What does our Centre experience offer?
Our indoor classrooms invite our students to be active explorers through scientifically-designed materials and presentations. Prepared environments entice students to proceed from simple to more complex activities. Our materials are thoroughly sanitized throughout the day to ensure students remain healthy. Physical education, musicality and dance programming daily ensures that all children meet or exceed the Canadian recommended requirements for active movement each day. Spanish and French enrichment lessons through songs, games and activities are part of our daily approach at all programs for ages 19 mos+.
Our outdoor programs encourage exploration in all weather at both campuses! We develop our students' connection to nature through active play. Children have a minimum of two 45 minute breaks outside every day.
Uniforms help reduce distraction and provide for a focused learning environment.
What types of activities will my child experience?
Daily learning routines may include...
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Practical Life (buttoning, grip, pouring, sewing, folding)
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Sensorial (smell, touch)
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Language (free form letters, sandpaper letters, tracing)
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Mathematics (tactical counting beads, cubes, and sticks)
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Cultural and Science Studies
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Art Appreciation (painting, poetry)
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Gym (rhythm, dance, movement)
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Science & Nature (tactical exploration)
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Music (singing and sounds)
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Spanish and / or French language instruction
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Physical education activities
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Nature walks and exploration
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Outdoor play
Will this program be a good fit for my child?
There are many options to choose from when selecting a learning experience. Download our guide that helps to compare a Montessori education to a play-based program.
Ultimately, with a strong partnership between our Centre and the home, all children will see growth from a Montessori experience. Children who's personal learning style will a Montessori approach will demonstrate...
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a natural desire towards learning new things
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a desire to be independent and do things for themselves
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a desire to 'stick with' an activity that interests them
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enjoyment in completing a task
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the ability to move sequentially through a task to completion
We offer in-Centre support for mild-to-moderate speech and movement delays, as well as PUF funding access for students who join us prior to a September start. Connect with us if your child is experiencing delays to see if a placement could be right for them.
We encourage all families interested in pursuing a Montessori education to become familiar with the research behind this approach. The most successful students of Montessori are those that have a consistent environment between home and school. Here are some suggested readings to start you on your journey: