The Early Foundation Stage
The toddler and pre-primary program at JFA is an educational approach designed for children aged between 18 months and 6 years old. The program is based on the principles of Maria Montessori, who believed that children learn best through hands-on exploration and discovery.
In the Montessori toddler program, the emphasis is on developing the child's independence and self-confidence. The classroom environment is carefully prepared to allow children to explore and learn at their own pace. Activities include practical life skills such as pouring, sorting, and manipulating objects. Social skills are also emphasized, and children learn to interact respectfully with their peers and adults.
The Montessori Primary program builds upon the toddler program, focusing on further developing the child's independence, self-confidence, and cognitive abilities. The classroom environment is still carefully prepared, with a variety of activities available to encourage exploration and learning. The curriculum includes language, mathematics, science, cultural studies, and practical life skills.
In both programs, the role of the teacher is to observe and guide the child's learning, rather than directing it. The teacher is trained to understand each child's unique needs and interests and to provide a supportive and nurturing environment for their development. Overall, the Montessori toddler and pre-primary program aims to foster a love of learning, a strong sense of self, and a respect for others and the world around them.
Toddlers
Our toddler program is designed to provide a child-centered learning environment that promotes exploration, discovery, and independence. The program is based on the idea that children learn best through hands-on experience and self-directed learning. Some of the things your child will learn in a Montessori toddler program are:
1. Practical life skills: We emphasizes practical life skills such as pouring, spooning, sweeping, and dressing themselves. These activities help children develop fine motor skills, coordination, independence, and self-esteem.
2. Sensorial exploration: The program provides opportunities for children to explore their senses and learn about the world around them. Children can learn about colors, shapes, textures, and sizes by using sensory materials such as sandpaper letters, color tablets, and geometric solids.
3. Language: At school we provide opportunities for children to develop language skills through conversation, storytelling, and exposure to new vocabulary. Children can learn to recognize and write letters and use language to express themselves.
4. Mathematics: Children are introduced to early math concepts such as counting, sorting, and matching. Children can learn about numbers, shapes, and patterns through hands-on activities with materials such as counting beads and shape puzzles.
5. Social skills: Our toddler program promotes social development by providing opportunities for children to interact with their peers and adults in a respectful and cooperative manner. Children can learn to share, take turns, and communicate their needs and feelings.
Overall, the program provides a holistic approach to early childhood education that fosters independence, self-esteem, curiosity, and a love of learning.
Pre Primary
The Montessori primary program is designed for children aged 3 to 6 years old and builds upon the foundation laid in the Montessori toddler program. The program is based on the philosophy that children learn best when they are engaged in self-directed, hands-on activities that are designed to meet their individual needs and interests. Here are some of the things that children can learn in a Montessori primary program:
1. Language: The Montessori primary program emphasizes language development through activities that promote reading, writing, and communication. Children can learn to read and write through the use of phonetic materials such as sandpaper letters and moveable alphabets.
2. Mathematics: The Montessori primary program introduces children to a wide range of mathematical concepts through hands-on activities that promote exploration, discovery, and problem-solving. Children can learn about numbers, arithmetic, geometry, and measurement through the use of materials such as number rods, bead chains, and geometric solids.
3. Science and Cultural Studies: The Montessori primary program provides opportunities for children to explore the world around them through hands-on activities that promote an understanding of science and culture. Children can learn about the natural world, different cultures, and history through activities such as gardening, cooking, and cultural studies.
4. Practical Life Skills: The Montessori primary program continues to emphasize practical life skills such as self-care, care of the environment, and care of others. Children can learn to take care of their own needs, their environment, and to develop a sense of responsibility for others.
5. Social and Emotional Development: The Montessori primary program fosters social and emotional development through activities that promote empathy, respect, and cooperation. Children can learn to communicate their feelings and needs, to resolve conflicts peacefully, and to develop positive relationships with others.
Our Montessori primary program provides a holistic approach to education that promotes the development of the whole child - intellectually, socially, emotionally, and physically. We encourage children to be curious, independent, and confident learners who are well-prepared for the next stage of their educational journey.