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Primary

Aidan’s program for preschool-aged children (from about age 3 to age 6) uses specially designed activities and materials to support self-directed discovery and guided learning as our students develop their social, practical, and academic skills.

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At about age three, children begin to shift from unconsciously absorbing information to consciously seeking out new knowledge and experiences. They begin to organize and classify everything they have absorbed previously and they commence the new process of building memory and developing the ability to recall what they have learned. They expand and refine their vocabulary dramatically. They develop their motor skills. They work to build independence while also learning to adapt to their society and to recognize the needs and feelings of others. 

At Aidan, our approach to learning is tailored to support children in this stage of development. Movement and activity are encouraged. Children are encouraged to talk with adults and each other. Teachers present specially prepared lessons to each child, and those lessons are designed to facilitate each child's burgeoning independence. Children are encouraged to explore, learn, and challenge themselves in a setting full of love and support. This approach fosters independence, curiosity, and confidence, creating a community where children thrive socially, emotionally, and academically.

In the Primary classrooms, children have the freedom to choose their work and to repeat tasks as many times as needed to build mastery of skills and concepts. The classroom environment is prepared to support children as they explore. Furniture and decorations are arranged carefully. Tables and chairs are made of wood and are the right size for children's bodies. Activities and supplies are accessible, placed on shelves and in cabinets that children can easily reach. This consistent environment and supportive community helps children cultivate resilience, curiosity, and critical thinking—preparing them well for future challenges.

Our Primary program has three classroom communities, each composed of children ages 2½-6. Each classroom is led by a teacher who has earned a Primary diploma from the Association Montessori Internationale. Each lead teacher has one full-time assistant. The children in our Primary classrooms also work with adults who provide Chinese and Spanish language lessons once a week.

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The Primary Experience