How to Prepare Your Child for Montessori School

Montessori school offers a unique education for children, creating an environment with plenty of hands-on learning opportunities. This personalized approach is world-renowned and scientifically based to help children find and focus on activities that pique their interest — something that isn't possible in a traditional school environment.

Especially if your toddler is entering a preschool program for the first time, it's essential to ease them into a classroom setting rather than having them jump right in when their program starts. To help make the transition easier, here are some of the top tips for preparing your kids for Montessori school.

1. Give Them Independence

Student independence is a core tenet of our educational approach. In a Montessori school, children have ownership of the classroom, as self-directed behavior and resourcefulness are encouraged. Fostering this independence in Montessori schools helps children build their confidence, an important character trait for their future academic life, interpersonal relationships and career. Children with high self-confidence are more likely to pursue intellectual challenges, stay resilient and form healthy social connections.

Leading up to the school year, watch how your child can figure out a task on their own, such as picking out their own clothes or brushing their teeth without being asked. You can help them by starting small — like offering two shirts to choose from in the morning — and watch how quickly they can pick it up on their own.

2. Set a Routine

Structure is an essential component of the Montessori learning environment. Consistent, predictable schedules let children know what to expect, helping ease anxiety and promoting relaxation. Allowing dedicated time for fun and activities they enjoy also gives children the pleasure of something to look forward to, which often leads to better self-control, focus and respect for others.

Be regular with activities throughout the day to help them get used to a daily routine. This could include having set times for reading, playing, napping and eating at the same time every day. Once school starts, your child will already be used to this structure and feel comfortable in this environment.

3. Communicate Clearly

Montessori school encourages clear conversation between children and their teachers. This approach supports collaboration and a strong sense of community to help children thrive and grow. It also empowers children to express themselves in acceptable ways that maintain a respectful learning environment.

Prepare your toddler for preschool by building their language skills through speaking in complete sentences and age-appropriate language. Some fun ways you can do this is by reading or singing together. Just be sure that all adults who will be around your child keep this language consistent — your child will pick up on it much faster and with less confusion.

4. Offer Them an Environment to Learn

Growing up encourages a world of life-long learning — even adults can learn something new every day. A love of learning and a desire to explore new concepts are hallmarks of toddler Montessori readiness, and you can build on these desires at home by creating an environment to learn.

Getting your child ready for Montessori school can involve multi-sensory learning opportunities, from books to crafts to baking. Consider creating dedicated spaces where your child is free to engage in activities that interest them, and offer your enthusiastic participation and guidance to encourage their natural curiosity. Whatever you decide to do together, let your child set their own pace.

5. Explore the School Together

It's common for children to feel some uncertainty as they transition from home-based care to the Montessori learning environment. Showing your child what they can expect is the best Montessori school preparation strategy you can take. Request a personalized tour of Sapientia Montessori with your child. They'll get to explore their future classroom and meet their teachers ahead of their first day, making that experience smoother and more comfortable.

Contact Sapientia Montessori Today

Sapientia Montessori is passionate about helping children reach their full potential. We've been assisting children like yours to pursue their intellectual, physical, social, spiritual and emotional best for over 30 years as one of the oldest and most respected authentic Montessori schools in the greater North Austin area.

If you have questions regarding Montessori school preparation or our available programs, contact us today!