Walnut Valley Montessori School

One of the many important discoveries made by Dr. Montessori was that children
pass through a series of “sensitive” periods in the course of mental and psychic
development. These are periods of intense fascination of learning a particular skill,
such as going up and down the steps, putting things in order, reading, counting or
learning a language (as all children learn before they are two). It is easier for the
child to learn a particular skill during the corresponding sensitive period than at any
other time in his or her life.

Montessori education is a unique cycle of learning designed to take advantage of a
child’s sensitive years, mainly ages of 3 months and 12 years when he can absorb
vast amounts of information from an enriched environment almost without effort.
The information from an enriched environment – the classroom and materials – is
designed to fully capitalize on the natural learning potential of each child and to help
each child develop within himself the foundation: for a lifetime of creative learning.

Though it is education in earnest ; it is quite unlike the traditional approach to education
familiar to most adults. It is different, because it has evolved from a half century of
discovering what actually works with children, rather than imposing on adult’s theories
on what should work. “The first duty of an educator” wrote Dr. Montessori, “is to recognize
the human personality of the young and respect it.” This is amply rewarded by the
accomplishments and positive attitudes of Montessori educated children.

Child Ages:

3 months - 12 years

Licenses & Accreditations:

California Department of Social Services: Community Care Licensing Division

Preschool:

Yes