Montessori makes sense

The Hills Montessori School has been operating in the Adelaide Hills for over 45 years, fostering the curiosity of children in its educational programs. With Open Day coming up at both the Middle School and the Primary School, visitors can see first-hand the opportunities the school offers children through a Montessori education.

What do you consider to be the best thing parents can do for their children financially?

Give them my book! So, I know that sounds totally obnoxious, but hear me out: Every parent has tried to talk to their kid about money. Every parent has done pocket money. Every parent has seen it fizzle out, and then resorted to nagging, scolding, and bribing.

My book is kind of unique: it talks directly to kids, and invites them to roll up their sleeves and go on an EPIC money adventure where they call the shots.

The book features inspiring stories of children who are more financially savvy than most parents. What are some of the biggest takeaways you learnt from these children?

The biggest one is just how much FUN these kids are having. Their enthusiasm is totally infectious. Parents tell me they get swept up in it too, because they see how much fun their kids are having.

1. It builds confidence like nothing else. The Barefoot Kids tell me they feel older and more confident because they’re actually proving to themselves how smart they are.

2. It’s a myth that kids don’t like working, or learning, or getting outside and doing stuff.

These kids come up with their own ideas. It not only builds their creativity, but also their resilience when things don’t go to plan.

Barefoot Kids is published by HarperCollins, RRP $29.99

The Hills Montessori School is an independent school located in a bush setting with two campuses, the primary campus in Aldgate and middle school campus in Stirling. The Yultiwirra campus in Aldgate provides education from birth up to 12 years of age. It comprises an early learning Infant Program from ages 0 to 3 years; Preschool from ages 3 to 5 years; and primary programs from Reception to Year 6. The Reception program is unique in that it has an intake of students each term throughout the year so children can begin their school journey when they are developmentally ready. The Wairoa campus in Stirling, caters for middle school students in its Adolescent Program, Years 7 to Year 9. Of particular interest is Preschool, designed for families who are looking for an environment that will give their child a quality start to their learning in a nurturing environment. The curriculum has an emphasis on early literacy and numeracy skills, as well as experiences in geography, history, biology, art and physical education. The ‘practical life curriculum’ helps children develop concentration and independence in activities such as food preparation, cleaning and looking after the natural world. Students have access to a beautifully renovated outdoor bush play area with native gardens, places to climb and explore, or for quieter time children can enjoy calming nooks and peaceful seating areas. montessori.sa.edu.au

When students reach the age of 4.5 years, they have the opportunity to join the Extended Day Preschool program. This is an extension of our preschool program and is focused on promoting collaboration between teachers, families and students to facilitate a smooth transition from preschool to primary school.

Open Days at both campuses are an excellent way to get to know students, parents, teachers and heads of school, as well as experience the community’s sense of collaboration and cooperation.

Join us on one of our OPEN DAYS!

Bookings are essential

TERM 1

MIDDLE SCHOOL YEARS 7-9

Tuesday 14 February 9.30am-11am

INFANT, PRESCHOOL & PRIMARY

Tuesday 14 March 10am-12pm

Wairoa Campus 142 Mt Barker Rd, Stirling

Yultiwirra Campus 12 Anderson Rd, Aldgate 8339 6842 enquiries@montessori.sa.edu.au