Riverdale Montessori School combines Creative Curriculum with Montessori to create our own unique early learning experience.

In all three classrooms, we follow parts of the philosophy of education created by Dr. Maria Montessori. We utilize mats to define individual work spaces, the work is child-led, lasts for a long period of time, and is hands-on. We also incorporate sensory experiences into our daily activities. Our children are given the agency to self-select their work, which leads to more engagement and intrinsic motivation.

We begin our year with building a community. Without this, all other learning would be a struggle. The children learn what is expected of them and what to expect from their teachers.

The routines are established and the structure of the day is solidified. The children also explore their own feelings, learn to cope with separation from home, and how to share a space with their friends.

After the first six weeks, the classes are set to delve into our curriculum. Each unit has literacy, math, science, and social emotional learning built in. We also encourage family engagement, both at school and at home. Parents are invited to the school regularly to share their own experiences and knowledge. Learning does not, and should not take place only at school.