Best Preschools in Fremont

A Day in Preschool: Understanding Your Child’s Daily Journey

November 23, 2024 by Michelle Cortez

As a parent, we want the best preschool experience for our children. Well, what happens then at a Montessori-based Preschool Program? Here’s a breakdown of our daily schedule, providing insight into the enriching activities designed to foster growth and learning.

Montessori Morning Circle: A Warm Welcome

Each day begins with our Greeting Morning Circle. Here, students walk along the blue line, a fun way to develop large motor development and focus. We gather to go over the calendar, discussing days of the week and weather, which helps build their understanding of time and seasons. This circle time also includes Montessori presentations, where teachers introduce engaging activities that spark curiosity and encourage independent exploration.

Snack Time: Nourishing Body and Mind

Following our morning circle, it’s time for a snack. This moment not only refuels our students but also offers a chance to practice social skills. Sharing snacks and conversing with peers promotes a sense of community and enhances their communication abilities.

Montessori Work Time: Hands-On Learning

Around 9:30 AM, we transition into Montessori Work Time. During this period, children explore essential concepts like shapes, colors, numbers, sounds, and language through hands-on activities. Each child selects materials that interest them, promoting autonomy and a love for learning.

Outdoor Play: The Importance of Movement

After focused work, we enjoy 30 minutes of outdoor time. Play is crucial for child development, allowing them to engage in physical activity, explore nature, and interact with peers. Whether they’re running, climbing, or playing games, this time is filled with energy and joy!

Transition Time: Songs and Stories

Next, as we prepare to move indoors, we focus on handwashing to promote self-care and hygiene. This transition is

accompanied by songs and stories, reinforcing literacy and listening skills in a fun, engaging way.

Lunch and Nap Time: Rest and Rejuvenation

After our singing session, it’s time for lunch. Eating together encourages healthy habits and social interactions. Following lunch, children settle down for nap time, which is vital for their growth and rejuvenation, helping them recharge for the rest of the day.

Afternoon Learning: Spanish and Cultural Studies

Upon waking, we dive into Spanish and cultural studies. This exposure fosters a sense of diversity and broadens their understanding of the world around them. Learning basic Spanish vocabulary through songs and activities makes this experience enjoyable and memorable.

STEM Enrichment: Exploring Science and Math

Next, we shift gears with our STEM enrichment program. This hands-on experience encourages problem-solving and critical thinking as children engage in activities related to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Our curriculum has many science experiments embedded in the schedule which our students enjoy participating in.

Snack Time and Outdoor Play: Active Exploration

After STEM, we have another snack followed by more outdoor play. During this time, we focus on physical activities that promote gross motor skills, such as running, riding bicycles, and bouncing balls. This active play is crucial for developing strength, coordination, and confidence.

Tea Time: Grace and Courtesy

As the day winds down, we gather for tea time, where we practice our grace and courtesy skills. This essential component of our curriculum teaches children about respect, sharing, and polite interactions, reinforcing the values of kindness and community.

Closing with Music and Movement

We conclude our day with music and movement. This fun activity allows children to express themselves creatively while enhancing their gross motor skills. It’s a joyful way to wrap up a busy day of learning and exploration!

Learn and Play® Montessori School Announces New Content for Sunnyvale Parents Seeking Daycare, Preschool, and Kindergarten Opportunities

July 31, 2024 by Gloria McNabb

Sunnyvale, California – July 31, 2024. Learn And Play® Montessori School, a top provider of early education services in the San Francisco Bay Area, is excited to announce new content helping Sunnyvale parents and guardians to learn about daycare (childcare), preschool, and kindergarten opportunities near them. [Read more…] about Learn and Play® Montessori School Announces New Content for Sunnyvale Parents Seeking Daycare, Preschool, and Kindergarten Opportunities

Preparing Your Child for Montessori: A Parent’s Guide

November 21, 2023 by Michelle Sarrosa

The decision to send your child to a Montessori school is important, and the transition from being at home to attending a Montessori school is a significant milestone for both you and your child. Our Montessori school programs run currently in Fremont, Danville, Dublin, and Milpitas. The Montessori method of education is known for its unique approach to fostering independence, creativity, and a love of learning in children. To help ease this transition, we’ll explore some valuable tips for parents and what to expect during the first few weeks of Montessori school.

Prepare Your Child Emotionally. Emotional readiness is crucial for a smooth transition. Start by discussing the upcoming change with your child. Explain why they’ll be going to school and the exciting experiences they will have. Encourage their curiosity and enthusiasm, reassuring them that school is a fun place to learn and make new friends.

Familiarize Your Child with Montessori Principles. Montessori schools have a unique philosophy focusing on child-centered learning, freedom within limits, and mixed-age classrooms. Introducing your child to these principles before their first day is a good idea. You can read books or watch videos about Maria Montessori’s ideas, which will help your child understand the learning environment.

Tour the School Together. Before the first day of school, arrange a tour of the Montessori classroom with your child. This will help them become comfortable with the physical environment, the materials, and the teachers. You can also introduce your child to some of the other students to make them feel welcome.

Click here to Schedule a Tour of any of our Learn And Play Montessori Schools

Establish Routines. Montessori schools emphasize independence, and it’s helpful for children to have a structured routine at home. Encourage your child to dress themselves, tidy up after activities, and take care of their personal belongings. These skills will make the transition to the Montessori classroom smoother.

Encourage Grace and Courtesy: Beyond academic development, Montessori education places a strong emphasis on cultivating grace and courtesy. Introduce your child to the values of respect, kindness, and consideration for others. Emphasize the importance of polite interactions and the joy that comes from being part of a supportive and respectful community. By instilling these social skills early on, your child will seamlessly integrate into the Montessori environment, fostering positive relationships with peers and teachers alike. Incorporating grace and courtesy into their daily routines at home will further nurture these essential qualities, contributing to a well-rounded and emotionally intelligent educational experience.

Build Confidence. In the Montessori environment, children are encouraged to make choices and decisions. Help your child build their confidence by letting them make age-appropriate choices at home, such as selecting their clothing or deciding what snacks to eat. This will prepare them for the independence they’ll experience at school.

Transitioning from home to a Montessori school can be an exciting journey for both parents and children. By preparing your child emotionally, introducing them to Montessori principles, and building their confidence and independence, you can help them adapt to this enriching learning environment. During the first few weeks, embrace the unique aspects of Montessori education, including mixed-age classrooms and individualized learning, and maintain open communication with your child’s teachers. With patience and support, your child is on their way to a fulfilling and transformative Montessori experience.

Montessori + STEM Experiments & How to Enhance Learning at Home

November 13, 2023 by Michelle Sarrosa

Montessori education and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) are powerful tools for nurturing children’s curiosity, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities. When these two educational philosophies intersect, children experience a dynamic learning environment that ignites their passion for discovery. In this blog, we’ll explore the benefits of Montessori + STEM education and provide a collection of exciting at-home STEM activities to complement your child’s school experience. To learn more about our STEM curriculum, you can take a tour of any of our schools.

At-Home STEM Activities to Enhance the Montessori + STEM Experience

Weather Watchers: Create a weather journal to record daily observations. Discuss temperature, humidity, and precipitation. Over time, your child will notice patterns and gain a deeper understanding of weather.
Seed Growth Experiment: Plant seeds in different conditions – some with lots of water, some with minimal water, and some in different soil types. Observe and discuss how each condition affects seed growth.
Simple Machines at Home: Explore simple machines using household objects. For example, construct a pulley system using a rope, a chair, and a bucket to learn about mechanical advantage.
Nature Scavenger Hunt: Organize a nature scavenger hunt, encouraging your child to observe and collect different items from the natural world. Discuss the characteristics and functions of these objects.
Invent with Recyclables: Provide your child with a collection of recyclable materials, and challenge them to invent a useful or creative item. Discuss the engineering principles involved.

Enhancing Montessori + STEM at Home

Encourage your child’s questions and curiosity. Emphasize that it’s okay not to have all the answers – part of the STEM process is exploring the unknown.
Create a dedicated STEM workspace at home. This can be a corner of a room or a table stocked with supplies for experiments and projects.
Keep a science journal. Encourage your child to record their observations, hypotheses, and the results of their experiments.
Foster critical thinking by discussing everyday STEM-related challenges and problem-solving together.

Montessori + STEM at home creates an environment that extends your child’s learning beyond the classroom, fueling their passion for exploration, discovery, and problem-solving. These experiences help children build a strong foundation in STEM and develop skills that will serve them well throughout their lives.

Montessori Thanksgiving: Cultivating Gratitude and Togetherness

November 7, 2023 by Michelle Sarrosa

Thanksgiving is a time for families to come together, reflect on their blessings, and create meaningful memories. At our Montessori school, we believe in fostering gratitude, independence, and togetherness among our young learners. In this blog, we’ll explore Montessori-inspired activities and ways in which parents can make Thanksgiving a meaningful and educational experience for their children.

DIY Thanksgiving Decorations. In the Montessori classroom, children learn the value of practical life activities. This Thanksgiving, engage your child in making DIY decorations. They can create paper turkeys, leaf garlands, or placemats. This not only hones their fine motor skills but also instills a sense of accomplishment.
Cooking Together. Thanksgiving offers an ideal opportunity for parents and children to cook together. Invite your child to help with age-appropriate tasks, like washing vegetables, peeling potatoes, or mixing ingredients. Cooking fosters independence, practical life skills, and a love for food and nutrition.
Nature Walks. In Montessori education, nature plays a crucial role in learning. Consider taking a nature walk as a family in the weeks leading up to Thanksgiving. Collect leaves, pinecones, or acorns to incorporate into your decorations or crafts, all while fostering a deep connection to the natural world.
Setting the Table. Teach your child how to set the Thanksgiving table with precision. This practical life skill includes arranging utensils, napkins, and dishes in an organized and beautiful manner. It instills a sense of responsibility and order.
Montessori Grace and Courtesy. In Montessori, children are taught the importance of grace and courtesy. Use Thanksgiving as an opportunity to teach your child about being polite and expressing gratitude. Encourage them to say “please” and “thank you” and to express their thanks for the meal.

Thanksgiving in a Montessori spirit is all about fostering gratitude, independence, and togetherness. By engaging your child in these Montessori-inspired activities, you can create a Thanksgiving experience that aligns with the principles of Montessori education, all while building precious family memories and instilling values that will last a lifetime. Happy Thanksgiving!

Why Montessori Transitional Kindergarten Outshines Public Transitional Kindergarten in California

November 2, 2023 by Michelle Sarrosa

The decision of where to send your child for their transitional kindergarten (TK) year is a significant one. Transitional kindergarten serves as a bridge between preschool and kindergarten, and choosing the right environment can set the stage for a lifetime of learning. While public schools have long been the traditional choice, Montessori Transitional Kindergarten offers a unique and transformative educational experience that often outshines the offerings of public schools. In this article, we will explore the reasons why Montessori TK stands out as an exceptional choice for early education.

Child-Centered Learning: Montessori education is renowned for its child-centered approach. In Montessori TK classrooms, children are active participants in their learning journey. The curriculum is tailored to each child’s unique needs and interests, promoting a love of learning that goes beyond rote memorization. In public school TK programs, curriculum is often more standardized, making it challenging to meet the diverse needs of every child.
Hands-On, Experiential Learning: Montessori TK classrooms are filled with hands-on materials that engage children in meaningful learning experiences. These materials are designed to foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity. In public school TK programs, there may be more emphasis on worksheets and structured activities, which may not offer the same level of experiential learning.
Child-Led Independence: Montessori education places a strong emphasis on nurturing independence in children from a young age. In a Montessori TK program, children are encouraged to make choices, engage in activities that interest them, and take responsibility for their learning environment. In contrast, public TK programs often have a more structured and teacher-directed approach, which may not provide the same level of autonomy for the child.
Holistic Development: Montessori education focuses on the development of the whole child, encompassing not just academics but also emotional, social, and physical growth. Lessons are integrated into real-life experiences, and activities often extend beyond traditional academic subjects. In public TK programs, the focus may be more narrowly on academic readiness, sometimes overlooking the importance of holistic development.
Open Communication with Parents: Montessori educators value strong partnerships with parents. Expect open communication, including regular meetings and updates on your child’s progress. While public schools also communicate with parents, the larger class sizes can sometimes limit the level of personalized attention that Montessori schools offer.

When it comes to providing your child with the best possible start to their educational journey, Montessori Transitional Kindergarten stands out as an exceptional choice. With its child-centered approach, hands-on learning, emphasis on independence, holistic development, and strong parent-teacher communication, Montessori TK offers a transformative educational experience that can set the stage for a lifelong love of learning and personal growth. While public schools have their merits, Montessori TK programs are specially designed to provide a strong foundation for a bright and promising future.

Nurturing Little Leaders: the Montessori Method and Kindergarten

October 11, 2023 by Michelle Sarrosa

When we think of leadership skills, we often associate them with adults in professional settings. However, the foundation for leadership can be cultivated at a much younger age, even in kindergarten. The Montessori Method, known for its child-centered and holistic approach to education, excels in instilling leadership skills in young children. In this blog post, we’ll explore how the Montessori Method empowers kindergarteners to become confident and capable leaders.

Promoting Independence and Responsibility: Montessori classrooms are carefully designed to encourage independence. In a Montessori environment, kindergarteners have the freedom to choose their activities and work at their own pace. This autonomy fosters a sense of responsibility as children learn to manage their time and resources. They become accountable for their actions and choices, laying the foundation for responsible leadership.

Encouraging Decision-Making: Kindergarteners in Montessori classrooms are encouraged to make decisions about their learning. They select activities based on their interests and needs, which requires critical thinking and decision-making skills. These early experiences help children become confident in their ability to make choices, a crucial aspect of leadership.

Emphasis on Communication and Collaboration: Effective leaders are skilled communicators and collaborators. In Montessori classrooms, children engage in frequent interactions with their peers. They work together on projects, discuss ideas, and solve problems collaboratively. These experiences teach kindergarteners the importance of listening, expressing themselves clearly, and working harmoniously with others.

Respect for Others and the Environment: Montessori education places a strong emphasis on respect for others and the environment. Children are taught to be considerate of their classmates’ needs and to care for the materials in their classroom. This respect extends to the world beyond the classroom, instilling a sense of responsibility for the community and the environment—an important aspect of ethical leadership.

Self-Confidence and Initiative: Montessori classrooms nurture self-confidence by allowing children to explore and master tasks independently. As kindergarteners experience success in their endeavors, their self-esteem grows, making them more willing to take initiative and lead in various situations.

Adaptability and Problem-Solving: Montessori education encourages children to adapt to different situations and challenges. By facing new and diverse tasks daily, kindergarteners develop problem-solving skills, resilience, and the ability to remain composed under pressure—traits vital for effective leadership.

The Montessori Method, with its emphasis on independence, responsibility, communication, and collaboration, provides fertile ground for cultivating leadership skills in kindergarten. By nurturing these qualities from an early age, Montessori education equips children with the tools they need to become confident and capable leaders in their future endeavors. As we continue to recognize the importance of leadership skills in various aspects of life, the Montessori approach stands out as a powerful means of fostering leadership qualities in our youngest learners.

Disaster Preparedness at Learn And Play® Montessori School

October 5, 2023 by Michelle Sarrosa

As parents, one of our primary concerns is the safety and well-being of our children. When it comes to choosing an educational environment for them, safety should be a top priority. Montessori schools are renowned for their innovative and child-centered approach to education. However, it’s equally important to understand how these schools implement crucial safety protocols and drills to ensure the safety of every child.

Fire Drill Preparedness: Learn And Play® Montessori school’s commitment to safety includes regularly scheduled fire drills. These drills ensure that both students and staff are well-prepared in the event of a fire emergency. Children are taught the importance of remaining calm and following exit procedures.

Earthquake Drill Readiness: Our schools have been inspected for earthquake safety, reinforcing the importance of a secure learning environment. Necessary safety measures, such as secure shelving and anchoring heavy items, are implemented. We also conduct earthquake drills to prepare children for this type of emergency. Students learn to drop, cover, and hold on during an earthquake, ensuring their safety.

Teacher CPR Training: Our Montessori teachers often undergo CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) training as part of their professional development. CPR-trained teachers can provide immediate assistance to a child or colleague in distress, significantly increasing the chances of a positive outcome until professional medical help arrives.

Partnership with Joffe Emergency Services: We have partnered with Joffe Emergency Services as they specialize in emergency preparedness. This partnership provides us access to expert guidance, resources, and emergency response plans tailored to their unique needs. This also ensures that Montessori schools stay up-to-date with the latest safety protocols, making certain that their safety measures align with the highest standards.

Choosing a Montessori school for your child not only provides them with an enriching educational experience but also prioritizes their safety. Through the implementation of rigorous safety protocols, regular drills, teacher CPR training, and collaborations with organizations like Joffe Emergency Services, Learn And Play® Montessori schools are committed to ensuring a secure and nurturing environment. Parents can take comfort in knowing that their children are not only receiving an exceptional education but are also protected by a comprehensive safety framework designed to keep them safe in any emergency situation. When it comes to education and safety, Learn And Play® Montessori schools aim for excellence on all fronts.

How To Apply For Learn And Play® Admissions? What Is The Process?

October 1, 2023 by Michelle Sarrosa

Parents with small children are often curious as to how our enrollment process works. Feel free to call us directly, or read this post for helpful instructions.

Schedule a School Tour: You are welcome to take a school tour of our Montessori Campus. Our tours are available Monday to Friday. Call us at (510) 916-1600 or email us at [email protected] to schedule a tour at your convenience.
Tour and Meeting with the Director: After the Montessori school tour, the director will meet with you and answer any questions you may have. An application form and a brochure will be given to you. You will also be sent an enrollment link so you can digitally fill out the application form.
Submit Application and Application Fee: A $300 non-refundable application fee is due with the application to confirm and hold your child’s place.
Acceptance and Enrollment Packet & Fees: Upon receipt of the application and the $300 non-refundable application fee, an enrollment packet will be given. The parents will complete, sign and return all portions of the enrollment agreements, emergency forms, health history forms, immunization records and all other required forms before child’s first day of school.
Before Child’s First Day of School: Please make sure to submit all completed forms before your child’s first day of school. The admissions team will be sending you an enrollment packet via email which would include all the required forms.

The admissions process for our Montessori school is designed to ensure that every child has the opportunity to thrive in our nurturing and supportive learning environment, and we look forward to welcoming your family into our community.

Contact us today to learn about how Montessori can help your child succeed!

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