Pincushion Hill Montessori School

CHILDREN’S HOUSE (AGES 2.9 – 6) One of the most striking aspects of the Children’s House is the peacefulness. There is a deep sense of respect between the teachers and the children. Through “grace and courtesy” exercises, we teach children how to problem solve conflicts, how to act politely in various situations and how to be kind and helpful to their friends. The result is a cohesive community of young children. A multi-age Montessori classroom encourages older children of the environment to foster leadership skills. The younger children benefit by having role models in the classroom. In the Children’s House, even the most shy 5 year old is encouraged into a leadership role, because the younger children look up to him and ask for his help and assistance. As the child progresses, they are introduced to sounds and symbols which lay the groundwork for reading and writing in the future. They are introduced to numbers and the decimal system with the most amazing concrete materials to show them the way. They learn about land and water forms, geometric figures, and the political countries of the world. They also learn about the parts of plants and animals and about music and art at their own pace.

Montessori allows children to progress through the curriculum at their own pace,there is no academic reason to group children to one grade level. In a mixed-age class, children can always find peers who are working at their current level.

Keyboard Lessons One-on-one keyboard lessons are offered by a trained instructor. Music Enrichment Class In the music enrichment, students will be exposed to quality music of various genres and of great composers. They will have the opportunity to improvise and learn beginning basics of composition. The children will cultivate a love of music through the development of: Ear training – recognition of pitch, rhythm, dynamics, phrasing Families of instruments – identifying instruments and their unique traits Visual discrimination – note recognition, the grand staff, ledger lines Physical movement – legato, staccato, tempo changes Ensemble skills – following a conductor, singing on pitch, playing instruments