About Us

Your Child Is in Great Hands

The Montessori Philosophy

Dr. Maria Montessori was a pioneer in the concept of education. Born in the town of Chairavalle, Italy in 1870, and graduating from medical school in 1896, her medical practice and clinical observations led her to analyze how children learn and build themselves from what they find in their immediate environment. Children teach themselves; this simple but profound truth and fundamental philosophy inspired Montessori’s lifelong pursuit of educational reform, methodology, psychology, teaching and training,all based on her dedication to furthering the self-creating process of the child. The Montessori educational philosophy believes that the educational method, to be effective, must support and address the nature of the child. The nature of the child is not a theoretical construct, but based upon detailed observation of the child.The children are dynamic and curious that have an inner need to know the world and a Montessori classrooms provide a multitude of fascinating materials to enhance this learning process. Essentially, the child constructs knowledge through physically manipulating the environment. The physical manipulation, or handling of the environment, allows the child to construct mental images.

Mental images lay the foundation for later abstractions. The Montessori teacher does not teach, but rather provides experiences for the child to construct mental images. Sunshine Montessori classrooms are calm, respectful and peaceful, providing an atmosphere to increase a child’s concentration. There are no grades, or other forms of rewards or punishments, subtle or overt. Assessments are done through portfolios and teachers’ observations and record keeping. Accomplishments are measured via behavior of children, their happiness, maturity, kindness, love of learning, concentration and work. Developing a courageous personality is as important as excelling in academics. The Sunshine Montessori philosophy is to provide an opportunity to take care of themselves, each other, and the environment; as well as teaching basic skills in gardening, cooking, moving gracefully, speaking politely, and engaging in social work in the community.

EVERY CHILD CAN SUCCEED!

Health & Safety

Each child's health is a matter of great importance to all of us. Upon enrollment, you must file with us a health form that is signed by your child's physician. We also require that each child have certain standard immunizations record. Notify the school of any allergies your child may have.

A daily health check is given upon each child's arrival at Sunshine Montessori Preschool & Daycare. The Daycare reserves the right to refuse admission to daily program to any child who is ill.

Your child may be sent home if any symptoms of illness appear during the day. In such cases, your child will be isolated from other children and you will be contacted. Once being sent home, they must be symptom free (no fever, vomiting or diarrhea) for 24 hours before returning to school. Children who have been prescribed antibiotics may return to school after 24 hours of antibiotic medication.

It will be helpful if you check your child every morning before coming to daycare as the following conditions may temporarily exclude him/her from participation at the daycare :

- has a fever or has had one during the previous 24 hr. period

- has been taking an antibiotic for less than 24 hours

- has a heavy nasal discharge not related to allergies

- has a constant cough

- is fussy, cranky, and generally out of sorts

- is very exhausted. Rest at such times may prevent the development serious illness.

- has rash that would indicate a communicable disease

- Impetigo, Ringworm

- is vomiting and/or diarrhea

- has head lice

- has pink eye (eyes closed due to mucous)

- has injuries which could require medical care

Please notify the daycare if your child contracts a communicable disease.