Parent/Toddler Program

Maria Montessori believed that the first three years of life form the foundation for the rest of our lives.  In her own words:

“Our work as adults does not consist in teaching, but in helping the infant mind in its work of development.” ~ Maria Montessori

The overall objective of our Parent/Toddler program is to increase the parent’s awareness and understanding  of the various stages of their child’s development, discover their child’s capabilities and need for independence, and to apply the Montessori principles learned in the classroom in their home.  The program is different from a ‘playgroup’ because the emphasis is on both parent education and child development (encouraging the child’s natural development towards independence).  As the children gain experience in the specially prepared environment they build confidence in the their capabilities and new found skills.  As parents gain experience in the same environment they are able to construct a home environment that helps to nurture their children's natural development (intellectual, physical and emotional) in a fun and creative manner.  Maria Montessori believed that play and work are interchangeable concepts when young children are learning and growing in a prepared environment.

Each session lasts for 90 minutes, twice a week, in an environment specifically set up to facilitate the child’s growing need for independence. The room contains only child sized furniture and activities that match the children’s physical proportions and their stage of development. The age range of the children is from approximately 18 months to 3 years of age. Sibling babies are welcome (free of charge) until they are crawling.

The range of activities offered are: language enrichment, care of self and the environment, food preparation, sensorial (senses) development, hand-eye coordination, communication and social skills, developing independence, gross and fine motor skills, sense of order, arts and crafts, introduction to nature, and music (songs, beats, and rhythm).

All work is set out in such a way that children can use the materials with the minimum of adult assistance and parents are made aware of the importance in allowing their children to complete and repeat tasks without interruption or interference. In this way children build up their attention span. These and other principles of every Montessori environment, provide parents with hands-on experience of the practical application of the Montessori philosophy of education.  Our instructor will also take the time to educate parents and answer questions throughout the sessions about the Montessori philosophy and how it can be translated to the home environment.

When working with children, we need to learn to give help only when it is needed and to understand the importance of standing back and observing the "unfolding life of the child before us". ~ Maria Montessori

The program is offered for three 11 week sessions (or discounted tuition for the entire year) twice a week, in 90 minute classes.  Siblings of current DMS students are offered a 10% reduction in tuition.  Tuition is due upon enrollment and this will secure your spot in the program..  Each class is currently limited to 10 -12 children plus their parents in each session. 

CLICK HERE FOR PARENT TODDLER REGISTRATION FORM