If you know that you want your child to go to Montessori program, the only thing left for you to do is choose the specific school. This may sound simple, but the reality is that there are a number of options when it comes to finding a Montessori school in the Bay Area. Having Montessori in the name of the school does not necessarily mean that the school follows the Montessori Method in the way you want. Private schools have a lot of freedom when it comes to applying an educational philosophy. This means that some Montessori programs will follow the Montessori Philosophy more closely than others. There are a few things to keep in mind as you go through the process of choosing a Montessori school for your child in the Bay Area – location, the program’s approach to education, and the available enrichment programs.
Start looking close to home
You have to start your search for a Montessori school with logistics in mind. If the school is not close enough for you to get your child to each day, then it is not a viable option. Fortunately, there are a number of Montessori programs available in the Bay Area. Make your list of options based on geography first, and then explore other elements to narrow down the list and make a final decision.
Learn about the program’s approach to education
Once you have a list of Montessori schools in the Bay Area, the next thing to consider is how the various programs approach education. As mentioned above, the way that various Montessori programs apply the Montessori Method in the classroom can vary. The layout of the classroom, role of the teacher, and design of the curriculum can all reflect the Montessori Philosophy of education. The best way to determine if a particular school is applying the Montessori Method in a way that aligns with your own philosophy is to schedule a time to take a tour and observe a class.
Look at available enrichment programs
Another factor to consider as you search for a Montessori school in the Bay Area are the available enrichment programs. Enrichment programs can add value to your child’s education and provide opportunities for learning that may not be available at other schools. If a particular type of enrichment program is important to you, make sure the schools you consider offers that type of program.
Choosing a Montessori school for your child in the Bay Area will require you to spend some time exploring the various options. One school to put on your list and consider in your search is Fountainhead Montessori School. Fountainhead Montessori School has five locations throughout the Bay Area that you can explore in your search for a local Montessori school.