Little Semlin Montessori
A Safe and Nurturing Environment for Your Child
Child Centred Approach
The Little Semlin Montessori program has been carefully designed with the understanding that each child is unique. Learning is geared towards encouraging children to pursue their interest, and to actively explore and develop at their own pace. Our program utilizes a combination of individualized and group learning actives. The program aims to develop children intellectually, socially, and emotionally. Child-centered learning according to Maria Montessori is an approach to education that prioritizes the child’s individual needs and interests. Montessori believed that children are naturally curious and motivated to learn, and that they should be given the freedom to explore and discover the world around them in their own unique way. In a child-centered classroom, the teacher acts as a guide and facilitator, rather than a strict authority figure. The focus is on creating an environment that allows children to take ownership of their own learning. Montessori observed that when children are given the freedom to choose their own activities and work at their own pace, they become more engaged and motivated learners. This approach allows children to develop a deep understanding of concepts and skills, rather than simply memorizing information to pass a test. In a child-centered classroom, the teacher provides a variety of hands-on materials and activities that are designed to stimulate children’s curiosity, and their natural propensity to explore, allowing them to develop through their journey of discovery. The teacher observes and assesses each child’s progress and provides guidance and support as needed.
Montessori Focus Areas
1. Focus on Independence: Montessori schools place a strong emphasis on developing children’s independence and self-reliance. Children are encouraged to take responsibility for their own learning and to develop practical skills such as self-care, care of the environment, grace, and courtesy. 2. Multi-Age Classrooms: Montessori classrooms typically have children of different ages working together in the same space. This creates a sense of community and allows younger children to learn from older ones, while older children develop leadership skills and reinforce their own learning by teaching younger ones. 3. Hands-On Learning: Montessori education places a strong emphasis on hands-on, experiential learning. Children are encouraged to use materials and engage in activities that promote learning through exploration and discovery. 4. No Formal Grades: Montessori schools do not use formal grading systems, as the focus is on the child’s holistic development and progress rather than on academic achievement. Instead, teachers provide ongoing feedback and assessment to help guide the child’s learning. 5. Teacher Role: Montessori teachers play a crucial role in guiding children’s learning, but they do so in a more subtle way than in traditional education. They observe children’s progress, provide guidance when necessary, and offer feedback and encouragement. Montessori teachers are also role models and instil character by displaying appropriate manners and actions. Enrolling your child at Little Semlin Montessori school can provide a unique and enriching educational experience that prioritizes the child’s development and self-discovery.
Extra Programs
Dr. Maria Montessori believe that knowledge, learning, and movement were all interconnected and that learning though the senses engaged the whole body. That is why movement in a Montessori environment is so important. The extra programs at Little Semlin Montessori help to enhance our educational objectives. Our music program, develops a child’s musical literacy, understanding, and overall creative potential. Children are taught rhythm, melody, dynamics, phrasing and form through activities involving singing, movement, speech, listening and use of instruments.
Pet In the Classroom
At Little Semlin Montessori we are blessed to the presence of pets into our school. We believe having pets inside the classroom can enhance the learning environment, teach children empathy, reduce anxiety, and promote social skills through interaction with a pet. This applied to Montessori teaching too. For example, asking children to recall how much food the classroom pet has eaten in a day, or how much the dog weighs - integrating regular mathematics lessons into daily interactions with the dog. As such, we will be honoured to announce that Little Semlin Montessori will be welcoming a new member to our family - Ollie (a miniature german schnauzer) on regular basis. We encourage parents to bring their pet(s) for a visit. All pets are welcome. Please discuss with our team for further arrangement.
Program Operation Information
We are a licensed Group Childcare for children between 30month and School age. We offer full time care from Monday to Friday, operating between 7:30am to 5:00pm five days a week.
Our school operates for 11 months, running from September to July, with a Montessori curriculum in session from September through June, followed by a dedicated summer program throughout July. The school remains closed for the month of August.
Throughout the school year, we observe several closures including a two-week Winter break in December, a two-week Spring Break, Professional Development (Pro-D) days, and all statutory holidays. These breaks are aligned with the practices of the Vancouver school district, allowing our staff ample opportunities to recharge and spend quality time with their families during holiday seasons.
Our program commences on the first Wednesday after the Labour Day holiday in September. For new students, a Gradual Entry approach is implemented during the initial two weeks, involving shorter durations of time in attendance, with specific schedules communicated through the enrollment package.