Are you traditional Montessori?

Yes and no. We love the Montessori philosophy of follow the child. We also know that social structures have changed since Maria Montessori developed her methods. Dr. Montessori used existing research and theories from multiple sources and blended them together to work for her situation. At Nature Story, we do the same. We are mostly based on the principles founded by Dr. Montessori, but also implement a blend of social and emotional development and physical education to make sure children are emotionally, socially, physically, and academically engaged.
 

What is the focus of your curriculum?

The child. Childhood should be fun. Luckily, we understand that and structure our environment with educational materials. Our priority is your child’s happiness. If they aren’t comfortable, they won’t learn to the best of their ability. Think of it as Maslov’s Hierarchy of Needs. Our program structure can accommodate the brightest of children but it is our staff and relationships that foster the safe place for child to explore and discover themselves and the world around them.

Every “work” (activity) has a scientifically based educational benefit even the ones that just look like toys. Some benefits are fine motor skills, literacy, tactile learning, pattern recognition, practical life skills, and the list goes on and on. Children get to explore these works to develop and learn without knowing these were specially made to have a control group. Some are self correcting and others have limited capabilities. This is another department where we are not traditional Montessori. Traditional Montessori works are those which you buy (or build) but are very specific in purpose. You will be able to find these traditional materials all over, as well. We also create nontraditional Montessori-friendly works which also have specific purposes but allow child to explore the method in different manners.

What is the ultimate goal for Nature Story?

Relationships matter. Childhood is not something to be rushed through or a bar to set, but something to embrace and enjoy. Time is the only thing we can never get back. We need to cherish the growth and development and celebrate each child for who they are.

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