Early Childhood (2/12 – 5 Years)

Recognized nationally as an outstanding Montessori early childhood program our Toddler and Primary classes accept children from 2 ½ to 5 years of age.

The RMS Toddler class (2 ½ - 3 years) promotes social skills, emotional growth, physical coordination and cognitive learning. After their Toddler year at the School children enter one of the 6 Primary classes (3 ½ - 5½ years).  The Primary classes provide a family-like age grouping where all ages are encouraged to interact with and learn from each other.  The youngest Primary children (3 and 4 years of age) referred to as Primary I students, attend 5 mornings a week as half-day students.  In the third year, of this three-year cycle, (approximately at age five) the children enter our Primary II Program (as full-day kindergarten students) using the afternoon sessions to hone their academic, personal and social skills in preparation for the transition to the RMS Lower Elementary (grades 1st, 2nd and 3rd) Montessori Program.  When the Primary II children have extended, uninterrupted work periods, they are able to immerse themselves in their work and accomplish sizeable projects.   

A teacher, holding Montessori certification, guides each of our classes with the support of a specially trained assistant.  The teacher carefully observes each child and introduces lessons, activities and materials taking into consideration the child’s interests and natural curiosity.  The student to teacher ratio in the morning is 13-1, with an afternoon ratio of 8-1. 

Specific areas of learning include the foundations for spoken and written language, mathematics, art, music, Spanish, cultural studies (geography, history and science), sensorial work (sensory awareness) and practical life skills.