Shepherd's Heart Montessori Country Day School

r preschool. Realizing it is very important for children to have an opportunity to learn about different cultures, our preschool curriculum emphasizes the uniqueness and value of all people. Preschoolers also learn from a wide variety of excellent children’s literature and music. As a Montessori educator and Human Development Specialist, I strive to work with the emotional, intellectual, physical, and social development of the whole child. The Montessori philosophy of education which was developed by Dr. Maria Montessori, the first woman physician in Italy during the early 1900’s, is based on the theory that the young child’s mind is like a sponge absorbing and learning effortlessly from the surrounding environment. This approach builds upon her discoveries that from birth to 6 years is a period of time in the child's life where learning is absorbed naturally and is spontaneous. Her groundbreaking work revealed that children of all ages learn best through hands-on learning experiences in an environment where they are free to move - learning and developing at their own pace. This promotes a love of learning and establishes a positive platform for further study of language, math, and the sciences in the elementary years. Montessori students in early childhood develop a sense of inner discipline and order enabling them to become independent learners. They learn respect for their environment, the materials and each other. The children experience freedom within the structure of well understood guidelines, maintaining a peaceful learning environment - all the while, having a great time. Children develop an understanding of what is morally and socially acceptable through grace and courtesy lessons, based on Christian values, and learn to make wise choices. SHM offers a unique opportunity for children to enjoy the beautiful rural landscape while riding the preschool bus to and from the country classroom each morning and afternoon. Singing together and visiting with their friends quickly becomes a treasured event each day. As an experienced mother, I believe healthy foods promote overall better emotional and physical stability, so nutritious meals and snacks are provided according to the USDA guidelines. Mealtime is an important atmosphere where children experience the pleasure of routinely setting up their dining area. These practical life experiences give them great joy and self-accomplishment. In addition, the fully fenced playground area gives the children a safe haven for supervised play, a garden to tend while observing nature and country life at its best.