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My son is 16 months, and I'm looking into preschools to send him part time once he is about 2 years old. I am a fan of Montessori, and am looking in Alameda. Has anyone had a good experience s/he would recommend? Tara
Re: Montessori Schools in Alameda
I am an Alameda parent who sent my then-pre-schooler to 2 different
Montessori
schools and was disappointed (to a greater or lesser extent) both
times. As an
educated professional, I was not concerned about my child's academic
preparation
for kindergarten, and believe that in preschool it is more important
for children to
learn social and emotional skills. I am really baffled as to why! the
Montessori
method is so popular. I believe that this method is only appropriate
for a small
percentage of children, yet it seems to be the main option available.
Some of the
reasons it was not right for my child include: emphasis on individual
work and lack
of opportunities for children to work and play together, lack of
emphasis and
opportunity for children to be creative and use their imaginations
(they can decide
which materials to use and for how long, but the materials have a
''right'' way, like a
puzzle, rather than providing any opportunity for experimentation and
creativity). I
also did not think that the focus on academics at the expense of play
and fun was
appropriate, and threatened to squelch my daughter's joy in learning.
I will
definitely not be sending my outgoing, social, imaginative, and
fun-loving second
child to a Montessori school.
--! not a Montessori fan
We are trying to decide between Berkeley Montessori and Montessori Family for our 3 yr old. We enjoyed our tours of both but they have very different characteristics. If you have experience with both, could you offer your thoughts? Also, if he stays through elementary school, I'd love to hear from parents with older children. Montessori Mom
[Editor] replies were posted to the pages for
Berkeley Montessori School and
Montessori Family School
Culturally Diverse Montessori School
December 2003
I am looking for a culturally diverse montessori school for my 2 year old twins. I'm looking for something in the El Cerrito, Richmond, or San Pablo area. My twins need a loving and academic environment that most day cares do not provide. We would like it to cost less than $750 per month, per child. Tamara
Recommendations received:
My son is thriving in a Montessori preschool program and I'm wondering if it makes sense to keep him in that environment through elementary school. I'd love to hear from parents who have chosen this route. Is there a particular Montessori school in either Oakland or Berkeley that you would recommend? (I'm planning on touring the Renaissance School in Oakland soon.) How do Montessori kids transition into more traditional schools, either public or private, later on? How academically prepared are they? Any pros and cons you can share would be greatly appreciated! Montessori mom
Recommendation received:
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