The Montessori School of North Hoffman
and
Lotus Montessori School
About Our School
For Our Parents
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The Infant Program
(3 to 18 months)
Our infant program follows the individual child's schedule with a flexible sequence of daily routines and activities. A strong partnership between home and school is a key element. In an atmosphere of unconditional love and acceptance, the development of basic trust is fostered. As infants communicate their needs, adults listen and respond appropriately. In addition to holding and rocking infants, we also engage them using expressive language. In a nurturing and secure environment, we care for their physical needs and provide for their developing personalities. Independence is fostered as infants learn to participate in their daily routine of care and practical life activities.
Infants learn through their senses. Our environment is designed for safety but allows them to move about freely. The room is designed with ample space to encourage movement and such features as carpeted stairs going up to a loft with a picture window. There is a balance of challenge and support from the environment integrated into the design of the classroom. Beds are low to encourage more visual interaction. Infant-sized furniture encourages independence.
Infants are provided with a variety of things to look at, explore and experience. Appropriate concrete materials create just the right amount of challenge for developing hands. They gain knowledge of themselves and their environment as we offer materials to meet their developmental stages and sensitive periods. Comprehensive language skills are developed through the use of materials, conversation, reading, and singing.
