We follow the teachings of Dr. Maria Montessori (1870-1952) and the American Montessori Society.
We understand that children of different ages have different needs and abilities. We study child development theory and make sure that our classrooms have developmentally appropriate activities and expectations.
We observe our children. The child has so much to teach us about learning. By watching closely, we can modify our lessons and materials to best suit the child's interests and growth.
We provide, prepare and maintain and unique classroom "prepared" environment. In a typical Montessori classroom, you would see objects in baskets, trays, or boxes arranged on a shelf attractively. Each work contains a purposeful work that is designed to teach a specific concept.
We model grace and courtesy (good manners), treating our children as we wish ourselves to be treated. We use calm voices when teaching and speak with respect in regard to the children's feelings. We carry ourselves with poise and handle objects with care. We believe that the children are acutely observing us even when we aren't aware of it, and they will mimic our behaviors and attitudes. We know that humans aren't perfect, but we really try to bring out the best in ourselves.
We recognize that children are unique individuals who are not likely to master the exact same concepts or have the same interests at the same time. We celebrate this uniqueness and allow each child to develop at his or her pace. We believe that learning is a natural process that develops spontaneously. When we place our trust in the child, we are often surprised at the immense amount of learning that takes place through the child's interaction with his or her world.
We believe that each child is on the way to developing self-discipline and that the rewards should be intrinsic (within oneself) rather than externally imposed. When a child misbehaves, we first examine the reasons why the child is exhibiting those behaviors (hungry? tired? overstimulated? testing boundaries?) and then we contemplate whether a change in the prepared environment would help or if we need to teach certain problem-solving skills to prevent another occurrence. We try to help the child understand appropriate behavior in a social context in a gentle, firm manner.
We believe that children learn best when they are free to move their bodies throughout the day. We encourage this independence, but also teach respect for others. No one's freedom should infringe upon another's right to concentrate.
We believe that the materials a child works with should be carefully chosen to support the current developmental stage. Concrete experiences are always offered first and abstract thinking presented later, when the child has a firm grasp on the concept.
We believe that education can change the world for the better. We are advocates for peace. We feel that the work we do as educators, guiding children toward self reliance and compassion, is incredibly important in the grand scheme of future life on Earth. We are humbled by the great possibilities that exist within the tiniest of humans, and we respect their inner wisdom.

Orcas Island Montessori