Northwoods Montessori offers distinct educational programs that cater to the needs and abilities of children at each stage of their development. The Montessori approach is a unique complex of philosophy, psychology, educational theory, and instructional materials guided by an understanding of developmental stages and respect for individual characteristics. The Montessori classroom allows children to learn independently in an environment specially prepared by the teacher to respond to individual needs and tendencies.
The Toddler community is located at the Decatur campus and enrolls children once they can walk independently, at around 12-16 months old. In this environment, basic motor coordination, independence, and language development are fostered, and individual personality is respected. Rather than a classroom, it is a nurturing social community where very young children experience their first contact with other children and learn to participate in a cooperative group.
AMI Assistants to Infancy Toddler Community Guide: Remzije Shala
Toddler Program: 12-30 months
Beginning at 2 1/2 years old, children may enroll in a Primary program at either the Decatur or the Doraville campus. At this age, children possess an absorbent mind and explore primarily through the senses. During this early stage, children exhibit sensitive periods, periods of acute sensitivity to specific areas of development (i.e., coordinated movement, language, order, and classification). The Primary class allows the child to move, manipulate, and explore, building the conceptual foundations and positive attitudes which underlie all future learning. The curriculum encompasses five broad areas: practical life, sensorial materials, language, mathematics, and cultural studies.
AMI Primary Guides: Millie Deanes, Suzanne Gavett, Lisa Jones, Emily Peters, Jennifer Samples
Primary Program: 2 1/2-6 years
Following the Primary Program, children are enrolled in the Elementary Program (located at the Doraville campus), which typically covers ages 6 -- 12. The Elementary child enters a new stage of development which requires changes in class structure and curriculum to respond to the characteristics of this age group. The two major developmental changes are the emergence of the reasoning mind and the strong interest in social organization and peer groups. The Elementary child wants to know "how and why" and uses the imagination as the major tool to explore relationships. A rich variety of materials and resources support the child's efforts to manipulate ideas and explore connections.
AMI Elementary Teacher: Hamida Bhimani, Patrick Black, Andrea Fleener, Carey Logan
Elementary Extended Day Staff: Janice Jennings, Eva Brooks
Elementary Program: 6-12 years