Young Children's Community (YCC)

The Young Children's Community at Aidan Montessori School is a supportive extension of learning that has already begun at home.

Aidan offers both full-day and half-day programs for all our young children. Both programs will begin at 8:15 AM; the half-day program will end at 11:15 AM while the full-day program will end at 2:45 PM. Please note that Aidan does not offer After School Programs for our young children.

Aidan has two Young Children's Communities that each include one Montessori-trained teacher, two assistants and approximately twelve children aged 18 to 36 months. Each classroom is a specially prepared environment designed to meet the needs of children this age, allowing them to become independent and engaged learners. A Montessori community is really a microcosm of society. Young children go through sensitive periods of order and language and the Young Children's Community is designed with this in mind, allowing movement, exploration and socialization. Young children have a genius capacity for mental absorption and are encouraged to quietly and intently explore and discover.

In the Young Children's Community we work on

• Language Development—communication and vocabulary
• Socialization—referred to as Grace and Courtesy
• Movement—fine and large motor skills
• Practical life—food preparation and care of the classroom environment
• Functional independence—care of oneself and bathroom independence

During the morning work period, each child is offered an array of activities such as watering plants, slicing fruit, washing dishes, or manipulating puzzles. They may engage in music, “read” books, or use a variety of art materials, which are always available. With each choice they practice movement, concentration, and develop self-confidence. The entire group gathers together mid-morning for the Community Meal, prepared by the children with the guidance of an adult. The table is set with flowers, place mats and cloth napkins and everyone practices their best manners. Daily outdoor time satisfies their need for large movement development and fresh air. As is their custom, they will prepare for a beautiful Community Lunch, partake of what’s offered, tidy up, and then assemble their belongings for their afternoon nap. There is a peacefulness in the routines and joy and excitement each day as the child’s personality unfolds and blossoms, revealing the person they will become.