The Montessori Country Day School is a private, academic school.  We are non-profit and non-sectarian. Our programs are open to all children regardless of race, creed or color. Our program is guided by the teachings of Dr. Maria Montessori – it is child centered, non-competitive and non-judgmental. We believe in “hands-on” education in a stress-free environment. The basic goal of the Montessori method is “normalization” of the child so that s/he becomes well-balanced, spontaneous and able to utilize his/her capabilities to the fullest.

Some of the characteristics of the “normalized” child are the following:

• Ability to concentrate well
• Sense of personal dignity
• Independence
• Self-motivation
• Love of order
• Enjoyment of repetition
• Ability to work alone
• Self-discipline
• Desire for freedom of choice and movement
• Pleasure and fulfillment in work for its own sake
• Desire to work without need for rewards or punishment
• Obedience
• Love of learning

Some of the key elements that guide our school’s curriculum and teaching methods are:

• Respect for the child
• Respect for others
• The joy of learning is emphasized
• Practical life experiences are emphasized
• Children have freedom, coupled with observation and guidance
• Children do it themselves.  The teachers are there to assist and help when necessary
• Children are encouraged to work on a problem on their own and figure things out at their own pace.
• Self-control is important for students to learn.