Art
At The Learning Nest, we provide children with art activities inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach, which is uniquely structured to encourage exploration, discovery, and creativity. The children work and experiment with different materials to create projects based on their own interests, ideas, experiences, and interactions with their surroundings, while developing communication, team work, organization, and problem solving skills. These art projects are represented in different ways: painting, construction, drama, music, movement, play, etc.
Bilingual Education
At Sierra Montessori we teach English as a second language through the immersion method, which enables your child to live the language. Children develop a second language by hearing it and using it daily in the classroom. One adult in each classroom will interact entirely in English, so your child will be exposed to a Spanish-speaking environment. Music and reading are part of this enrichment activity. In the Children’s House classroom, the students will expand their knowledge by receiving a weekly vocabulary class in English.
Physical Development
At Sierra Montessori, we offer physical development activities. It is a program that introduces children to sports and physical activities in a fun and non-competitive environment. Classes include activities that develop motor skills, enhance physical fitness, and improve self-confidence.
Gardening and Farming
Green spaces give children the chance to move and learn in a relaxing and joyful environment. Activities created in outdoor and open air spaces are different from those done indoors because the changing environment stimulates imagination. The seasons, weather, and daily patterns of light and dark affect plants and creatures in many tangible ways. This changing landscape is fascinating for children and a valuable learning experience. Research has shown that children who are able to play and explore gardens and green spaces are better at remaining grounded and in tune with nature as adults. We give children the opportunity to collaborate and work in the garden and the farm. For them, it always feels like a special gift that teaches them to be responsible in addition to care, love and appreciate animals and plants.
Nutrition
We take nutrition very seriously at our school. We encourage healthy foods and follow a nutritional snack plan because we believe food is an extremely important part of a child’s experience. Sharing a meal with friends supports the child’s development in many positive ways; consider the enhancement of language and the development of mealtime conversation and socialization. Furthermore, a younger child’s sense of well-being and independence is stimulated through involvement with food preparation. Serving food onto one’s very own plate is an exciting experience and tasting new foods that have been prepared by friends is always an adventure.
In an effort to curb the effects of allergic reactions, Sierra Montessori School is a nut-free environment.
