Primary

Primary – children ages 3 to 5 years 

What Is Montessori?

Through her direct observation and interaction with children during the early 1900s, Dr. Maria Montessori realized that children develop in identifiable periods, each one distinct and critical to children’s unfolding as individuals and members of society. Over the past century, the Montessori educational approach has been proven to be successful both nationally and internationally and is reinforced by current scientific research about child development. Belle Meade implements an educational environment that meets these developmental needs of the children.

Younger students learn from older classmates, while older students are academically challenged and gain leadership skills.

Children in the Lower School learn actively in indoor and outdoor spaces designed to provide freedom of movement and the ability to choose their activities. Montessori guides observe each child’s readiness and mastery of lessons to guide them onward. The children learn at their own pace through self-correcting materials, observation, discovery and interaction. Group experiences are part of each day, building community while encouraging social skills. At Belle Meade Montessori, children develop a love of their school community and of learning.

 “Education is a natural process carried out by the child and is not acquired by listening to the words but by the experiences in the environment.” ~ Maria Montessori