Montessori Enrichment Programs. t Parent Education t After School Classes t Parenting Workshops and Classes

Transcription

1 Montessori Enrichment Programs t Parent Education t After School Classes t Parenting Workshops and Classes

2 t Parent Education Parent Education is an integral part of each child s success. When parents have a deeper understanding of the Montessori materials and philosophy, they are better able to support their child s growth and development. Here at The Montessori School, the education of every human being is valued. When the adults continue to further their own knowledge and understanding, we become a prevailing model and guide to every child. Together with our children, we share the desire to discover, explore and learn about all aspects of life! Opportunities for parents to learn more about the Montessori curriculum and philosophy are available throughout the year. We offer three different categories of events: Morning Forums, Your Child s World, and Montessori Evenings. During the evening events, parents are invited to share a delicious community meal (5:30 pm) prior to the presentations (6-7:30 pm). If you plan to come for dinner, please RSVP in the Main office or call Morning Forums These morning events are a forum for conversations about universal topics of parenting and child development, as they connect to the Montessori philosophy. Montessori Touchstones: Discussion Group (Fridays, monthly) As a Montessori School community, we share common values. Our school s culture and beliefs are woven into core Montessori elements that we call Touchstones. As part of the Montessori philosophy, children internalize these values through their work in the classroom every day. As adults, we bring intention to our commitment as a family and community by practicing and honoring these shared beliefs. The Touchstones represent the heart of who we are! Each month, a classroom teacher facilitates a morning discussion on a particular Touchstone and how it connects to the Montessori philosophy. Middle School Parent Circle (Tuesdays, monthly) Ramani DeAlwis welcomes Middle School parents to join her on the first Tuesday of each month to share concerns and discuss current happenings at the Middle School. Understanding the social dynamics and academic rigor of a Montessori Middle School student is important for parents when offering their child support and guidance. Discussing parenting challenges as well as listening to the concerns of others allows parents to be more aware and informed. Montessori Education and Standardized Testing (November 11) Our Montessori School Learning Specialist, Meg Drake, offers a presentation on the CTP IV (standardized tests administered to Upper Elementary students) and how The Montessori School holds these tests, philosophically and practically. The Montessori approach to learning supports the child as an experiential learner one who acquires knowledge through discovery, exploration, research and repetition. We recognize that standardized tests are one very specific way of testing a person s intellect and knowledge. We offer these tests as a form of practice and preparation for life beyond a Montessori classroom.

3 Your Child s World Parents experience a glimpse into their child s world through these special classroom events. Please refer to our school calendar for specific class dates. Back-to-School Nights (September, 6:30 8pm) Parents are given the opportunity to join their child s teachers and learn about developmental stages and classroom details as they pertain to the Montessori philosophy. In addition to learning important information to support your child s success in the classroom, parents also have the chance to build relationships with one another and nurture our community in the year ahead. Toddler and Primary Holiday Celebrations (December, 11am noon) Parents are invited into their child s classroom to celebrate the many holidays during the month of December as children and their parents sing and rejoice together. Children look forward to these special mornings with great pride as they prepare their classroom with anticipation and delight! Primary Parent Morning (February 7, 9:30 10:30am) Primary moms and dads are invited to spend this gentle morning in the classroom with their child. This is a time for children to share with their parents some of the joys and lessons that they have experienced throughout the year in the classroom. Student Presentation Nights Lower Elementary (April 30, 6-7pm) Upper Elementary (May 14, 6-7pm) Lower and Upper Elementary students welcome parents to spend time in the classroom rotating through lessons which are presented by the children. Teaching to others is a powerful way for anyone to master skills and concepts. These evenings give children the opportunity to practice and solidify their knowledge as they build confidence and gain mastery of particular concepts through their presentations. Montessori Evenings These evening events are designed to help parents understand more about the Montessori materials and philosophy at every level. Montessori Lessons: A Practical Understanding (October 9) Teachers present a variety of lessons from different areas of study. An overview of the materials, and how they relate to the philosophy at each level, provides a deeper understanding of the Montessori curriculum. Montessori Education: Inner Growth and Mastery (January 15) As a continuation of the Back-to-School nights in the Fall, teachers explore the developmental stages as they pertain to the child during the middle years of a classroom cycle. Teachers provide insight and further explanation around the importance of internal growth and stages of dormancy. Maria Montessori outlined the characteristics of the different stages of development which are universal to every person. Within these stages, an interior evolution occurs which is often unseen by others. Understanding this process allows parents and teachers to support and nurture a child s greatest potential as a human being. Montessori Threads: Exploring Math (February 26) Teachers trace the sequential journey of a child s exploration of Math from the earliest concrete lessons to advanced abstraction in the later years. Follow the thread from Toddler through the Middle School to see how materials build upon each other and provide layers of concepts as the brain develops.

4 t After School Classes Fall Classes Within the dates of September 29 November 10th African Drumming (Parent-Child: *P - MS) Mondays Feel the rhythm and learn about African traditions through drumming, singing, dancing and crafts! Instructor: Henry Jones (Infinite Roots) Spanish Cooking (*P) Tuesdays In this class, children prepare and eat delicious food (guacamole, arepas, chorizo, tacos and more!), create a recipe book and also practice speaking Spanish. Instructor: Victoria Giraldo (Private Teacher) The After School Classes are an extension of the Montessori curriculum. Children continue to explore, discover and refine new abilities and concepts based on their developmental needs and interests. These classes are in alignment with core areas of Montessori pedagogy. A focus on Practical Life, Sensorial and The Arts allow children to foster a love of learning through continued experiential study. Classes are available to *Full-Day Primary (*P), Lower Elementary (LE), Upper Elementary (UE), and Middle School (MS) students. Classes offered to UE/MS students will be held at The Middle School. A bus will transport the UE students to Lois Street and parents will pick up their child at this location. Classes run once a week for six week sessions. Class time is from 3:30 to 4:45 pm. Please include an extra snack in your child s lunchbox for the After School Class. Class fee: $180 per student Pre-Engineering Legos (*P/LE) Thursdays Students explore physics, mechanical engineering, structural engineering and architecture while building and designing with Legos. Instructor: Kerry Hamilton (Play-Well Teknology) Creative Threads (LE) Mondays Through the use of different threads, students create many useful and beautiful items such as friendship bracelets, potholders, and cross-stitch designs. Instructor: Kim Clark (Primary Assistant) Science Experiments (LE) Wednesdays Children learn the basics of different chemical relationships and their reactions to each other! Instructors: Randy Williamson (Chemical Engineer) and Andrea DeBroka (Learning Specialist) Drama (UE) Thursdays Students study different aspects of drama such as character development, set production and costume design as they work to create a performance! Instructor: Chris Smalley (Drama Specialist) Bread Baking (UE/MS) Wednesdays Students will learn about the traditions and techniques of baking breads from around the world (such as pão de queijo, focaccia and naan to name a few!) Instructor: Carolina Martino (MS Teacher)

5 Winter Classes Within the dates of January 12 March 2 Yoga (Parent-Child: *P - MS) Tuesdays Give you and your child the gift of being present through practicing this mindbody connection. Instructor: Patricia Clahar (MS Teacher) African Drumming (Parent-Child: *P - MS) Mondays Feel the rhythm and learn about African traditions through drumming, singing, dancing and crafts! Instructor: Henry Jones (Infinite Roots) Art Exploration (*P/LE) Wednesdays Children are given the freedom to explore art through process-driven activities and theme-based projects. Instructor: Susanna Carrillo (Paper, Scissors, Oranges Art Studio) Karate (*P/LE) Thursdays While learning the technical skills of Karate, children also refine their body control, ability to follow directions and respect toward others. Instructor: Heather Reilly (Shaolin Studios) Ceramics (LE/UE) Thursdays Students explore different methods of working with clay and then also glaze and fire each piece. Instructor: Mark Stephenson (Art Specialist) Floor Hockey (LE/UE) dates TBA This fast-moving sport allows players to build coordination, physical stamina and team spirit! Instructor: Jason Brasher (Athletic Director) Sewing (UE) Tuesdays Design your own bags, pillows and more while learning the basics of the sewing machine! Instructor: Victoria Giraldo (Private Teacher) Spring Classes Within the dates of March 30 May 7 Gardening (Parent-Child: *P - MS) Wednesdays There are so many ways to garden! Learn a variety of tips and techniques while exploring different plants. Discover the joy of gardening with your child! Instructor: Tracy Tomas (Tracy Tomas and Associates) African Drumming (Parent-Child: *P - MS) Mondays Feel the rhythm and learn about African traditions through drumming, singing, dancing and crafts! Instructor: Henry Jones (Infinite Roots) Outdoor Games (*P) Thursdays Students play physical games as they incorporate important skills needed in all sports such as good sportsmanship, cooperation, and hand-eye coordination. Instructor: Nicole Jarrin (Toddler Assistant) Art Exploration (*P/LE) Mondays Children are given the freedom to explore art through process driven activities and theme-based projects. Instructor: Susanna Carrillo (Paper, Scissors, Oranges Art Studio) World Dance (LE/UE) Tuesdays Experience music and dance from around the world in this inspiring and creative class! Instructor: Andrea Metchick (Dance Specialist) Song Writing (UE/MS) Wednesdays Self-expression through music is a powerful way to convey thoughts, ideas and feelings. Students learn about creating melody and lyrics while practicing voice technique and rhythm as well. Instructor: TBA Woodworking (UE/MS) Wednesdays Learning to create and build with wood opens up a world of possibilities! This class provides the fundamentals of woodworking through the introduction of tools, safety and project design. Instructor: Gerard Bisceglie (Facilities Manager)

6 t Parenting Workshops and Classes We offer workshops and classes to parents of children at every stage in their development. Just when you think you have the mysteries of parenting solved, your child reveals the need for more independence! Understanding the developmental needs of your child will allow you to be a more present and compassionate parent. Parenting Workshops are offered on Wednesday evenings from 6:30-8:30 pm throughout the school year. Parenting Classes are offered during the summer. All Parenting Workshops and Classes are open to the public. Please sign up in advance for these events in the Main Office on Whipple Road or call Parenting Workshops Workshops are offered by Karen Perlman, Ph.D., LP. Karen is a licensed psychoanalyst, psychotherapist, and parenting consultant in private practice in Greenwich, CT. She also heads the Child Behavior Program at Armonk Integrated Psychiatry in Armonk, NY and is a frequent speaker and facilitator to parents and educators on issues relating to parenting and child development. The Emotional Life of your Toddler and Young Child (October 22) This workshop focuses on the internal world of the young child (ages 1-6), explaining how children think, feel, and respond to the challenges of growing up, and how parents can help them meet those challenges with greater selfconfidence and joy. The Meaning of Children s Friendships during the Elementary Years (December 3) Friendships are important at any age, but for the school-aged child, they take on a particular significance and resonance. Parents will learn tools to help their child navigate the complexities of middle childhood (ages 6-12), especially the social dynamics that often affect a child's sense of self, confidence, and well-being. A Developmental Understanding of the Adolescent Child (February 11) This workshop focuses on the older child s social and emotional development, helping parents to understand children s thinking and behavior as they reach the crucial phase of adolescence. A developmental perspective offers insight into and empathy for children s struggles and strivings for independence at this age. The 21st Century Child (April 15) How can we help our children learn what they really need to know to lead productive, successful lives? In the age of easy access to information, all of the research points to the importance of soft skills emotional competence, creativity, and communicating well. This workshop focuses on an approach to parenting and education that leads not only to academic success, but also to a strong sense of purpose, well-being, and connection in children's lives while outlining the essential coping skills that children need for healthy growth.

7 Parenting Classes Classes are offered by Veronica Brasher, the Montessori Toddler Directress of our bi-lingual Toddler Program. Veronica received her Montessori Birth to Three diploma at The Montessori Institute in San Diego, CA and has been working at The Montessori School with parents, infants and young children for over 15 years. Childbirth & Family Preparation Class (June 23 & 30, 7-8 pm) As parents prepare for the arrival of their newest family member, they will learn about fetal development, birthing options, the process of birth and personal support systems. Family preparation includes the preparation of the infant environment and breast feeding, as well as the important role of both the father and siblings. Class fee: $50.00 Parent-Infant Class (July 1 and July 7-28, 9-10:15 am) Parents and their children (birth through 12 months) learn and grow together in an environment designed to suit the needs of the child during this early stage of development. Throughout each class, we will follow the child s natural tendency to explore and discover the prepared environment. We will also discuss the importance of movement, language, care of self, sleeping and eating. Expectant parents are welcome to attend as a way of learning and preparing for this next phase of life. (The first class, July 1st, is an orientation designed for parents only.) Class fee: $ Mission Statement To respect children as self-directed individuals and foster their growth toward independence and social responsibility. To adhere to the philosophy of Dr. Maria Montessori and maintain the standard of The Association Montessori Internationale. To create a joyful, diverse, and family-oriented community which provides an atmosphere that supports the growth of the child. To inspire the child to live both passionately and compassionately in a global community. Contact Information The Montessori School The Montessori Middle School 34 Whipple Road 24 Lois Street Wilton, CT Norwalk, CT Phone: Phone: Fax: Fax:

8 After School Classes At-a-Glance Fall Winter Spring Monday Sept. 29, Oct. 6,20,27, Nov. 3,10 Jan. 12,26, Feb. 2,9,23, Mar. 2 Mar. 30, April 6,13,20,27, May 4 3,4,5,6 Soccer MS Basketball 5,6,7,8 Runners African Drumming (All) African Drumming (All) African Drumming (All) Creative Threads (LE) Art Exploration (*P/LE) Tuesday Sept. 30, Oct. 7,14,21,28, Nov. 4 Jan. 13,20,27, Feb. 3,10,17 Mar. 31, April 7,14,21,28, May 5 3,4,5,6 Soccer MS Basketball 5,6,7,8 Runners Spanish Cooking (*P) Sewing (UE) World Dance (LE/UE) Yoga (All) Wednesday Oct. 1,8,15,22,29, Nov. 5 Jan. 14,21,28, Feb. 4,11,18 April 1,8,15,22,29, May 6 MS Soccer MS Basketball 2,3,4 Runners Science Experiments (LE) Art Exploration (*P/LE) Gardening (All) Bread Baking (UE/MS) Woodworking (UE/MS) Song Writing (UE/MS) Thursday Oct. 2,9,16,23,30, Nov. 6 Jan. 15,22,29, Feb. 5,12,19 April 2,9,16,23,30, May 7 MS Soccer MS Basketball 5-8 XC Races Drama (UE) Karate (*P/LE) Outdoor Games (*P) Legos (*P/LE) Ceramics (LE/UE) Some After School Classes may conflict with Athletic Program Classes (listed in green print). Details will be sent under separate cover regarding all Athletic events. Please check times carefully.