More about Montessori:
Philosophy: Dr. Maria Montessori was Italy's first physician (1870-1952). She dedicated her life to the advocacy of children's rights and to the advancement of their intellectual potential. Dr. Maria Montessori developed her philosophy of education using her medical, psychological and anthropological training. She gained three Nobel Peace Prize nominations because of her research. Her philosophy and method are the foundations of the Montessori program, which is based on actual observations of children. She believed that in order to facilitate their innate love of learning, an environment where children could work on activities they chose, at their own pace, should be provided. Children go through a time early in life where they experience sensitive periods, where their mind is particularly able to learn from their environment without a great deal of effort. Montessori called the child's mind at this stage, the 'absorbent mind.' A Montessori teacher understands the importance of the sensitive periods that the child progresses through and takes advantage of it, by introducing to the child stimulating and developmentally appropriate activities. She is a trained observer and facilitator, always ready to guide and direct the child without interfering with his or her independence.
The Montessori method allows the child to develop to his or her maximum potential as a unique individual, in preparation for life. Children are taught to develop their own sense of respect toward themselves, others and their environment.
We provide children with a variety of age-appropriate activities and learning experiences structured to enhance their development. The children are encouraged to explore this learning environment on their own, through manipulating, discriminating, examining, exploring and questioning the activities they find prepared for them.
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Local resources:
- Ridge Meadows Early Childhood Development Committee Services: up-to-date information on programs, projects, services and resources for families and service providers that meet the needs of children prenatally to 6 years and their families.
- Ridge Meadows Child Development Centre: promote healthy child development by identifying children at risk for developmental delays at an early age; and to provide timely, effective, family-centered interventions that will help all children achieve their fullest potential.
- Jungle Jacs Play Centre: Whether it be sliding down our 21ft water effect slides, shooting your friends in our banana splat ball pit, climbing up through tubes into our huge treehouse, or swinging off ropes on our fantastic pirate boat deck, you're sure to have one great time!
- Maple Ridge Leisure Centre - Aquatics: Pools, spray parks, lessons
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