As a parent, it can be confusing to understand the differences between various early childhood education programs. When it comes to Montessori School of Chantilly, parents may think of us in a couple of ways: Montessori preschool and Montessori Pre-K. While both names are grounded in an early-life educational philosophy, there are some essential variations between the two. In this article, we’ll help you understand the difference between preschool and Pre-K for your child.
Age
Our pre-primary toddler education preschool is a program that is designed for children aged 2 to 3 years. In contrast, our primary Pre-K is designed for children aged 3-4 years. These programs both lay the foundation for young learners to explore, discover, and socialize in a safe environment. In preschool, children receive the opportunity to learn through practical activities, and the curriculum focuses on developing fine motor skills, language, and socialization skills through play-based learning.
Academics
Montessori Pre-K is designed for children aged 3 to 4 years. This program is a continuation of Montessori preschool with a stronger focus on academics. In Pre-K, children learn how to read, write, and complete simple mathematical equations in a Montessori environment. Montessori Pre-K programs use a wide range of materials and interactive learning techniques to help children acquire essential academic and life skills.
Personal Growth
Montessori Pre-K programs also introduce children to broad content areas such as phonics, speech, and outdoor activities. Preschool programs focus more on developmentally appropriate activities, such as encouraging curiosity and improving social skills, while Montessori Pre-K also emphasizes more complex skills, such as sensorial activities and practical life activities.
Structure and Length
Another notable difference between Montessori preschool and Montessori Pre-K is the structure and length of the program. Preschool programs are generally half-day programs that last for two to three hours, while Pre-K programs typically run for three to four hours per day, five days a week.
Our preschool and pre-k programs are two exceptional resources for children’s education. While both programs share similarities in philosophy, they offer unique and specific benefits dependent on age and development. To reap the benefits of early-life development, contact us now for enrollment.
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