703-243-3914
GLEBE CAMPUS
3455 N.GLEBE ROAD
ARLINGTON VA 22207
ARLINGTON FOREST CAMPUS
4701 Arlington Blvd.
ARLINGTON VA 22203
Education that lasts a lifetime
Welcome to Chesterbrook Montessori School
Primary Program
2 1/2 - 6 years of age
The primary classroom is a unique environment that is tailor made for the 2 1/2-6 year old child. Under Montessori guidelines, the environment is specially prepared to support the child’s quest for independence and self-confidence.
The materials, tables, and chairs are all sized for the primary age child and are not only functional but beautiful as well. They invite the child and appeal to his natural curiosity. The child is able to work independently with the materials and is free to explore and move about the room. The needs of the children are met through the interplay of a specially prepared environment, a directress, assistants and the children.
Under Montessori guideline, the primary child can explore many concepts such as sequence, language, sounds,
shapes and forms.
The Primary program is a three-year cycle designed to meet the needs of individual children within a community-like setting. Children from three to six years old are grouped together in each class, providing a family like setting, where learning can take place naturally. Equal numbers of each age group: 3’s, 4’s and 5’s create an optimum dynamic for learning. Younger children learn from older children; older children share what they have learned while reinforcing their own learning and self-confidence.
Materials in the classroom are based on Montessori work in practical life, Sensorial, Math, Language, Cultural studies, and art and music.
Practical Life exercises consists of lessons in polishing, buttoning and pouring which improve motor skills while aiding the development of independence, control and concentration.
Sensorial exercises enable the child to compare, classify and clarify the world around them. Many of these materials are precursors to mathematics and geometry.
Math exercises use concrete manipulative materials that help the child learn abstract concepts of math, such as sequence, place value, operations and memorization of math facts. The strong concrete understanding then leads the child to understand then work with toward abstract concepts.
Language exercises begin with a solid foundation in spoken language, which aids the development of vocabulary and phonemic awareness. The development of writing and reading are encouraged, using a variety of tactile and manipulative materials.
Cultural Studies are presented as extensions of the sensorial and language activities. They introduce the child to the basics of the world’s geography, geology, history, astronomy and biology, through materials and stories.
Art and Music are incorporated into our daily classroom activities. The comprehensive music and art programs give the child every opportunity to enjoy a variety of creative activities, as well as gain knowledge of the great masters.
All of the activities are directed toward helping children develop positive attitudes about themselves, their world and learning.
