PLANES OF DEVELOPMENT
4
PLANES OF DEVELOPMENT
8 WEEKS TO 12 MONTHS
12 MONTHS TO 3 YEARS
3 YEARS TO 6 YEARS
6 YEARS TO 12 YEARS
PARENT-INFANT PROGRAM
YOUNG CHILD COMMUNITY
CHILDREN’S HOUSE
ELEMENTARY
The Parent-Infant program brings parents and their infants together in a thoughtfully prepared environment to learn and to share unique one-on-one bonding experiences. We reimagined our approach this year due to pandemic-related limitations. We instead offered one-on-one sessions as well as small group sessions. Our trained Montessori guide provided support and suggestions specific to each child's needs. A lending library of toys was created, and parents were encouraged to take a material or activity home every week that matched the developmental abilities and interest of their child. Additionally, a new outdoor space was created as an extension of the indoor classroom where work was put on shelves for the children to choose. We look forward to the success of the program and its useful additions being carried into future classes.
Young Child Community children learn and grow at their own pace through self-correcting materials, observation, discovery, and interaction with others. Art exploration, food preparation, environmental care, language development, motor coordination, and independence flourish as each child begins to form a strong sense of self. The observance of how much a child at this age can do for themselves and their environment continually astonishes visitors and newcomers. In addition, the children learn to problem solve and lend helping hands in a myriad of ways. Once a parent has seen their toddler grow through this program, they return with each of their subsequent children. Our YCC levels earned recognition from the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) after a consultant observed, reflected and guided teachers, and documentation of fulfillment of AMI standards.
Children’s House fosters active learning in indoor and outdoor spaces designed to provide refinement of movement and the ability for children to choose their activities. Guides observe each child’s readiness and mastery of lessons to move them onward. Children learn academic and cultural concepts based upon critical developmental periods of interest and opportunities for deep concentration. Daily activities for caring for their environment and contributing to others foster strong social skills and a sense of belonging to community. Younger students learn from older classmates, while older students are academically challenged and gain leadership skills. Daily open-ended outdoor exploration and play in nature brings wonder and laughter among peers. The growth and development that takes place in Children’s House well prepares the child for Hershey’s elementary program.
Our elementary program is based on Maria Montessori’s theory of cosmic education for children between the ages of 6 through 12 years. Academics are interwoven within an interdisciplinary hands-on curriculum that consists of language, mathematics, geometry, biology, geography, physical sciences, history, music, foreign language, and art. Our elementary guides foster independence, responsibility, and a sense of community while continually encouraging stewardship. To deepen their understanding of our world, the children utilize and explore our outdoor environment for project-based learning. Elementary students collaborate in small groups, allowing for conversations with higher level thinking skills, developing problem-solving strategies, and building strong communication skills. Lessons are ultimately aimed at helping the student discover the interconnectedness of knowledge within society and their universe.
HERSHEY MONTESSORI SCHOOL
2020-2021 YEAR-IN-REVIEW
5
