Your child can benefit from a Montessori education in a number of ways. The overarching goal of the Montessori Philosophy is to prepare students for success in life. This means that the focus is not on regurgitating facts for assessments but on true mastery of important concepts. If you are convinced that a Montessori education is the best option for your child, the next step in the process is to find a school in the Bay Area that meets your set of expectations. To help you choose a Montessori school in the Bay Area, look at location, explore how the Montessori Method is implemented, and take enrichment programs into account.
Start with a convenient location
The first factor to consider as you try and choose a Montessori school in the Bay Area is location. Location may not seem like the most important factor but it is important to consider. You need to choose a Montessori school that you can get your child to each day. A long commute may not be feasible because of your work schedule. If you cannot get your child to and from a particular school each day because of location, then you need to mark that school off of your list. There is no reason to continue looking into a school that is too far away unless you are willing to relocate. The good news is that there are number of quality Montessori schools located throughout the Bay Area.
Explore how the Montessori Method is implemented
The Montessori Philosophy should be the thing that governs any program you consider. However, private schools have the freedom to interpret and adjust a guiding philosophy based on any number of factors. Because of this, two schools that are both called Montessori can look very different from one another. You can use this fact to help you choose between the Montessori schools in the Bay Area. Schedule a time to tour each campus and observe a classroom at the schools you are considering. By doing that, you can take a look at how the Montessori Method is implemented in each program. It can be eye opening to see the differences in the various programs.
Take enrichment programs into account
Another factor to take into account is enrichment programs. Montessori schools have the ability to bring in unique and engaging enrichment programs for students. The types of enrichment programs a school offers can help you choose between the Montessori school options in the Bay Area. At Fountainhead Montessori School, for example, your child will have access to enrichment programs such as language immersion.
As you start your search for a Montessori school in the Bay Area, it is important to understand that each school is different. Each program has the freedom to adhere strictly or loosely to the Montessori Method. Take your time to explore each program and observe a classroom so you can confidently choose a Montessori program for your child.