Our Philosophy
The philosophy of UVMS comes from the work and writing of Dr. Maria Montessori. Authentic Montessori education derives its methods from the belief that all children learn by interacting with others, and the world around them. This learning comes in known stages that are realized through careful scientific observation. Therefore, it is the role of the adult to create and environment based on the stages of development, to observe children’s interactions in it and with others, and to develop a plan for continued learning based on those observations.
Our Programs
Educating students from 2 months to 6 years!
Why we believe in Montessori
Deep respect for children as individuals
Multiage classes allow teachers to develop close and long-term relationships with their students, allow them to know each other’s learning style well, and encourage older students to become role models, mentors, and leaders to younger students.
Integrated curriculum is carefully structured and connects subjects within programs (e.g., history and cultural arts to maximize the opportunity for learning) The curriculum builds from program to program to progress from concrete to abstract learning.
Independence is nurtured and leads to children becoming purposeful, motivated, and confident in their own abilities.
Peace and conflict resolution are taught daily and children learn to be a part of a warm, respectful, and supportive community.
The child creates, in a very real sense, the adult that is to be, through his/her experiences, interactions, and environments. Character development is a central focus of Montessori curriculum.
Hands-on learning is central to the curriculum in all programs and leads to children being engaged rather than passive with their work.
The environments are responsibly and carefully prepared with multisensory, sequential, and self-correcting materials to support self-directed learning.
Teachers and children and teachers and parents work together as a warm and supportive community.
Self-expression is nurtured in all children. Children experience art, music, poetry, theater, writing, and other forms of creative arts with confidence and passion.
Montessori Focus
Nurture Inner Motivation
Children are most willing to apply themselves when they feel there’s intrinsic value to their work. Some parents use external rewards as motivation, but only pride and pleasure from within has lasting, and meaningful, effects.
Montessori teachers refrain from using traditional classroom rewards such as gold stars and merit-based privileges. Instead, they focus on nurturing each child’s personal sense of accomplishment. Even praise is given sparingly—saved to acknowledge a child’s effort, rather than the outcome of her work.
By expressing encouragement and appreciation for your child’s efforts, you—like her teachers—help nurture an inner motivation that will serve her for life.
