The goal of MMS Casa dei Bambini Program is to foster independence and to support children in moving toward a mastery of self and the environment.  The classrooms are prepared Montessori environments designed to encourage children to discover the world.  

 

Maria Montessori’s research found that young children learn best by using their hands, not by looking or listening, so the Montessori materials are developed with that very concept in mind.  The Montessori materials in Casa are specially designed to stimulate the child into logical thought and discovery.  Apart from conveying basic educational information, the materials develop a child’s senses and coordinate their movements in preparation for reading, writing, calculation and problem solving. The way environment presents itself develops the young child's concentration, focus and independence.  Each child develops according to his or her own natural rhythm.

 

Within the safe and nurturing atmosphere of MMS Casa rooms, children naturally work with interest and focus, developing a habit of concentration and love of learning that will last them all their lives.

 

MMS Casa rooms have a Directress with a Bachelor’s of Education Degree and an International Montessori Teaching Diploma.  The Directress is the link between the child and the environment, motivating them by presenting the appropriate activity at the appropriate level of difficulty.  Close attention is paid to each child's interests and needs.

 

The classroom is multi-age, ranging from ages 2.8 yrs to 5.  This ensures that each child is able to progress at his or her own pace in both social/emotional and academic areas, and that each child has the ability to act as a mentor and a learner in the classroom.  The children learn by helping each other.  They do not compete.  This nurtures and results in a positive social classroom community. 

 

Children continue to be motivated by the intrinsic rewards.  For a confident child, new activities are not only a challenge but also a delight.  Children are most apt to retain a positive attitude toward learning and acquire confidence in a relaxed atmosphere where they set their own pace, follow their own interests and are free from criticism.  The child learns by discovering through concrete experiences, thoroughly understanding what they are learning and laying down a solid foundation for more complex future work as they transition into our Elementary program.

 

Curriculum   

 

Our specially prepared Casa classrooms are organized into five main curriculum areas. These are Practical Life, Sensorial, Language, Math and Cultural.  We offer the subjects of Art, Science, French, Geography, Biology, Zoology, Music and Physical Education in addition to Grace and Courtesy.  This stimulating and carefully planned environment ensures each child's needs are fully met.  To supplement what the classrooms provide for the curriculum in each area, guest speakers and field trips are also used often as tools to expand the children’s minds to ensure that all educational needs are fulfilled.  Our students receive French twice a week in the afternoon. Art classes are provided once weekly by an in house Artist.