Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between Montessori Schoolhouse and traditional preschool education?

For children six and under, Montessori focuses on learning through all 5 senses with hands-on natural materials. Children learn by doing and at their own pace; not all at the same time. They are engaged in individual or group activities of their own, with materials that have been introduced to them 1:1 by the teachers who know what each child is ready to do. The curriculum is flexible based on the needs of the child. Learning is an exciting process of discovery, leading to concentration, motivation, self-discipline, and a love of learning.

Why multi-age classrooms?

Multi-age classrooms allow us to adapt the curriculum to the individual child. Each child can work at his or her own pace while remaining in the community with his or her peers. The multi-age format allows the older children to be leaders of the classroom. Children learn from each other.

What can I expect for my child at Montessori Schoolhouse?

• Professional educators who really care for your child

• An inspirational setting on about 2 acres

• Safety first with licensing by the State of New Hampshire

• Focus on development of the whole child; not just academic

• Emphasis on social skills, emotional intelligence and independence

• Your child to begin to develop a sense of self and positive self-image

• The foundation for a love of learning that will last a lifetime

My child seems a bit ahead/behind other children. Will he/she be successful at Montessori Schoolhouse?

Montessori is designed to help all children reach their fullest potential at their own unique pace. Our classrooms will have children with varying abilities and are communities in which everyone learns from one another, and everyone contributes. Moreover, multi-age grouping allows each child to find his or her own pace without feeling “ahead” or “behind” in relation to peers.

Is Montessori Schoolhouse religious?

 No, although there are a few Montessori schools that are affiliated with a specific denomination, Montessori Schoolhouse is not. As a result, our classrooms are diverse, with representation from all peoples, cultures, and religions from our area.

What are the key areas of the classroom?

Practical Life: Includes care of self and the environment as well as lessons in grace and courtesy.  Activities include pouring, sorting, sewing buttons, serving, polishing and many other activities using real life objects.  These activities help to increase focus, encourage good work habits, independence, develop coordination and strengthen hand muscles.  Practical life activities prepare the child for all other subject areas of the classroom.

Sensorial: It is through the five senses that the sensorial materials prepare the child to sharpen their abilities in learning reading, writing and mathematics.  For example, the child who has perceived the subtle differences of sounds in the sound cylinders will be more likely to perceive subtle differences in the phonetic sounds of letters.  The grasping of small knobs on equipment enables a child to gain control over the small finger muscles he will use for writing.   Using the senses to explore the diverse materials with variable dimension, color, shape, texture and smell, help to develop all faculties of intelligence.

Language: Language is explored phonetically at Montessori Schoolhouse.  Initial alphabet sounds are first introduced through sandpaper letters and matching objects.  After children learn a few sounds, they are introduced to blending exercises with the moveable alphabet.  Metal insets are an exercise used to refine pencil control and help to improve writing skills.

Mathematics: Hands-on materials to provide a simple and clear understanding of the mathematical concepts being taught; examples are number rods, sandpaper numbers, number boards, number beads, tiles and games.  Each exercise builds upon another gradually guiding the child from the concrete to the more abstract areas of numeration.

Cultural: Includes geography, history and science.  There are many geography materials in the classroom to teach a child their place in the world.  By looking at the seasons, studying the weather and changing the calendar daily it helps the child to establish a cycle of time.  

How does Montessori Schoolhouse foster creativity and imagination?

Freedom of Choice: Children can choose their activities from various options. This freedom allows them to explore their interests and follow their passions, fostering creativity and imagination. It’s freedom within limits.

Child-Centered Learning: We recognize that each child is unique and learns independently. Teachers act as guides, observing and understanding each child’s needs, interests, and learning styles. This personalized approach encourages creativity and allows children to uniquely express themselves.

Hands-On Materials: Our classrooms have various hands-on materials that engage the senses and promote experiential learning. These materials are carefully designed to encourage exploration, problem-solving, and creative thinking.

Mixed-Age Classrooms: In our mixed-age group classrooms, older children act as mentors and role models for the younger ones. This fosters collaboration, empathy, and cooperation, stimulating children’s creativity and imagination as they learn from and interact with their peers.

Outdoor Education: We often incorporate nature-based and outdoor activities into our curriculum. This exposure to the natural world provides endless opportunities for exploration, imagination, and creative play.