Hillside Montessori School

FAQ

Choosing the right school is important, and questions are natural. Our FAQ page offers answers to the most common questions from families considering Hillside Montessori.

The Montessori method is an educational approach developed by Dr. Maria Montessori that emphasizes independence, hands-on learning, and respect for a child’s natural psychological development. It encourages children to learn at their own pace in a prepared environment using specially designed materials.

Montessori classrooms are multi-age, allowing children to learn from one another. The environment is carefully prepared with materials that promote self-directed learning. Teachers act as guides rather than traditional instructors, supporting each child’s individual learning path.

Our Montessori program serves children from 2.5 – 6 years old. All children attending HMS must be fully toilet trained. Our Casa classrooms are a mixed age grouping.

Yes. Montessori students often transition well due to their strong foundation in independence, critical thinking, and self-motivation. These skills help them adapt to various learning environments.

Montessori can benefit most children, especially those who thrive in a structured yet flexible environment. However, every child is unique. We recommend observing a class or meeting with our staff to discuss your child’s specific needs.

Montessori classrooms focus on promoting inner discipline through freedom within limits. Children are taught respect for themselves, others, and their environment. When behavioral challenges arise, they are addressed with compassion, redirection, and natural consequences.

Yes. All teachers at HMS hold age-appropriate Montessori certification from accredited training centers such as the Canadian Montessori Teacher Education Institute (CMTEI).

Parents can support their child’s independence and curiosity by creating a consistent, respectful, and engaging home environment. We also offer parent education resources and workshops throughout the year.

Yes, Montessori education follows a structured curriculum, though it is tailored to each child’s pace and interests. Areas include Practical Life, Sensorial, Language, Math, and Cultural Studies.

We use a combination of teacher observation, detailed record-keeping, and developmental benchmarks. Progress is shared on an ongoing basis through our communication platform, Transparent Classroom, as well as during regular parent-teacher conferences and individualized reports.