How many children are in each classroom?

Each classroom will have up to 21 students, with one lead guide and two associate guides. The children will range from 3 – 5 years old.

Can my child nap at school?

Cots are provided for all children to have a nap or rest period. Those who no longer nap will be engaging in quiet educational activities.

Do you offer half-day childcare?

At this time, we are not offering half day options.

Does my child need to be potty trained to attend?

Yes, all children are required to be potty trained by the time they start attending OHMS. There are no changing tables at our school.

What meals are provided?

Breakfast and an afternoon snack are provided for the children. Breakfast is promptly at 9:00am. Should you arrive later, please be sure to give your child breakfast prior to your arrival. The children will help prepare their snack in the classroom. Lunch must be brought in for your child each day, and must not need reheating.

Do you offer any programs for children under 3 years old?

We currently have two locations in Bethpage which provide care for children ages 6 months – 5 years old. They are both home daycares that care for up to 12 children each day. Visit ourhousebethpage.com for more information.

Are there opportunities for movement and play in a Montessori classroom?

A hallmark of the Montessori method is that children move freely about the classroom during their work periods. Movement is an essential component of many of the activities. Students may transition from activity to activity at their own pace, with support from their teacher. Children work on the floor, at tables, standing, and in chairs at different points throughout the day. At OHMS, children also engage in structured and free play on the indoor or outdoor play space daily.

How will my child be assessed and evaluated in a Montessori classroom?

The teacher, through extensive observation and record-keeping, designs individual lesson plans that enable each child to learn, improve, and approach lessons that are challenging enough to promote interest and learning but not so challenging that they are discouraging. Teachers generate narrative reports that describe each child’s developmental progress through the year. Disciplinary issues are approached using a collaborative problem-solving method, rich with language and communication.

Are Montessori children successful at ongoing traditional schools and later in life?

Research studies show that Montessori children are well prepared for later life academically, socially, and emotionally. In addition to scoring well on standardized tests, Montessori children are ranked above average on such criteria as following directions, turning in work on time, listening attentively, showing responsibility, asking provocative questions, showing enthusiasm for learning, and adapting to new situations. Research has shown that Montessori materials and the structure of the classroom help children develop higher level executive functioning skills that are clear indicators of school readiness and future success. These skills include the development of impulse control, working memory, task persistence, grit, problem-solving, creative thinking and managing time, work space and resources.

What special training do Montessori teachers have?

All lead teachers at OHMS have their Montessori Certification. Training includes teaching apprenticeship, child observation, and coursework covering principles of child development, Montessori philosophy, and Montessori materials.

How can I use Montessori techniques at home with my child?

Look at your home through your child's eyes. Children crave a sense of both belonging and independence, and they feel this by participating fully in the routines of everyday life. "Help me do it by myself" is often a preschooler’s mantra. Find ways for your child to participate in meal preparation, cleaning, gardening, and caring for clothes, shoes, and toys. Follow your child's interest and avoid interrupting her when she is engrossed in an activity. In school, only a trained Montessori teacher can properly implement Montessori education using the carefully designed materials in a Montessori "prepared environment." Social development comes from being in a positive and unique environment with other children – an integral part of Montessori education.