The Montessori Approach

Dr. Maria Montessori was ahead of her time. By emphasizing self-directed learning and the development of the whole child, her principles prepare children to thrive in our rapidly changing world.

Montessori education helps your child thrive by providing a carefully prepared environment that meets her individual developmental needs. Guided by trained adults, she is offered the right experiences at the right time, allowing her to explore, learn, and reach her full potential.

Nurturing Independence

At Pincushion Hill, toddlers 18 months to 2.9 years of age and preschool to kindergarten children learn that their independence is valued. We encourage free movement, choice among carefully designed options, and making sure they know their voices are heard. We teach them practical life skills, such as cleaning and preparing food, as well as time management, that can be used in the classroom, home, and beyond. This emphasis on independence gives children a tremendous sense of empowerment. 

Supporting Individual Growth

We have teachers trained in the specific developmental stages of the children they work with. By honoring where children are in their growth, we develop educational environments that suit their needs. We know that learning is not always linear, and that each individual child will need different challenges and supports throughout their time at our school. In addition, teachers work with our students to study areas of personal interest.

Assessment to Inform and Inspire

Assessment is derived from a Latin word meaning to sit beside. In a Montessori classroom, that is exactly what we do. Teachers sit beside children while they work, observing and taking notes, allowing them to target areas in which students may need more challenge or support.  The three period lesson, a Montessori hallmark, is specifically designed to measure understanding and mastery in the student. This close attention each day allows teaching and learning to be adjusted in the moment, so each child is getting exactly what they need.

Fostering Kindness and Peace

Our students are global citizens. World geography is taught to all of our students and children learn about traditions from a wide range of cultures. We take the time to teach skills like conflict resolution, and are able to help children work through social dynamics as they arise. We believe that peace and kindness are the base of any quality education, and a foundation that is necessary for the progress of humanity.

Nature as a Classroom

At Pincushion Hill, we nurture a deep love for the natural world through extended outdoor time and hands-on science experiences. Children plant, care for, and harvest from our gardens throughout the year, connecting with nature in meaningful ways. Indoors, students engage with real, rather than replica, materials, exploring and discovering through authentic, hands-on experiences. We believe in giving our students as much direct contact with the natural world as possible.

Engaging Spaces for Meaningful Work

Entering our classrooms, you'll immediately see how a Montessori environment sets us apart. We value natural materials and prefer natural lighting. Living things are present, as are low shelves that allow children to easily access their work. There are areas for children to work in a group or independently, They are welcome to sit on a mat or in a chair based on what suits them and their work best. Our Montessori materials are beautiful and of high quality, inspiring the children to value the work they do.