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Playdough with Purpose: Extending Into Math, Language, and Real Learning in Montessori Casa Classroom

Boy works on and completes Colour Tablet 3 Grading in the Sensorial Area of Treetops Montessori, ready to start Kindergarten and beyong

Gardening in a Montessori Casa school Classroom. Hands-On learning through Nature

What Do Montessori Children Become? A Long-Term Look at Adult Outcomes

Montessori planes of development Montessori sensitive periods ages 3–6 Montessori language development preschool Montessori cursive writing ages 4–6 Montessori concentration cycle 3 hour work cycle Montessori hands-on learning materials child-led learning preschool Vancouver

Montessori Without Homework or Workbooks at Casa Program at Treetops Montessori West Vancouver to honour the authentic AMI model of learning for preschool and kindergarten

Young girl shows her independence buttoning up her jacket by herself at school. Montessori independence skills at Treetops Montessori school in West Vancouver BC

If you’ve been exploring preschool and kindergarten options, you’ve likely seen terms like Montessori , Montessori-inspired , and Montessori hybrid . They may sound similar—but the differences can significantly impact your child’s experience, especially when it comes to teacher qualifications and kindergarten readiness in British Columbia. What is an Authentic Montessori School? A true Montessori program follows the philosophy developed by Maria Montessori. These classrooms a

One of the most common questions parents ask is: “Do Montessori classrooms have circle time?” The answer is yes, but it looks very different from what you might expect. In an authentic Montessori environment, inspired by Maria Montessori, group time is intentional, purposeful, and carefully balanced with the child’s need for independent work. What Is “Circle” in Montessori? Circle (or group time) is when children gather together as a community, often sitting in a circle, to s

Why We Teach Cursive Writing in the Casa Montessori Classroom

Materials of Treetops Montessori Preschool

Montessori children together on the playground Choosing a preschool is one of the most meaningful decisions you’ll make for your child. If you’re considering a Montessori Casa (ages 3–6) classroom, understanding what makes it authentic , and whether it aligns with your family’s needs, is essential. What Is a Casa Classroom? “Casa” means Children’s House . In Montessori, it reflects a carefully prepared environment designed to foster independence, concentration, and a love of

Children painting together in a Montessori preschool classroom

Toilet learning is an important milestone in early childhood, and understanding a child’s readiness can help determine the best environment for their success. In a Montessori Casa classroom (typically ages 3–5), expectations around toileting are different from those in a typical daycare setting, with a strong emphasis on independence and self-care. In a Casa environment, children are generally expected to be toilet trained or very close to it. This doesn’t mean perfection. Pr

Friends all together at Treetops Montessori looking at a book together Conflict is a natural part of childhood. We guide children to: Use words Listen to peers Express feelings respectfully Find solutions together Learning conflict resolution early builds lifelong communication skills.

Montessori birthday celebration, walk around the sun ceremony

Young girl shows her independence buttoning up her jacket by herself at school. Montessori independence skills

Chinese New Year circle time at Treetops Montessori Group time builds listening skills, vocabulary, and community.

Young Montessori Child at Treetops Montessori draws in her journal Fine motor skills involve small hand movements needed for writing, cutting, and self-care. Activities that build fine motor strength: Pouring water Using tongs Playdough Buttoning and zipping Drawing and coloring Strong fine motor development helps children feel confident entering kindergarten.

preparing for kindergarten, kindergarten readiness preschool