Kindergarten
5 years old
Our Kindergarten Program is fully accredited by the Maryland State Department of Education. In class, your child will increase their concentration and expand their knowledge of various topics, including Coding and Latin.
Schedule
Our Kindergarten Class (8:30am-3:00pm) includes two distinct class experiences for the child. The morning session (8:30am-11:15am) is a traditional mixed-ages Montessori class. The children receive individual lessons and work independently while developing strong concentration skills.
The afternoon class (12:15pm-3:00pm) is only Kindergarten students. The agenda for the afternoon focuses on extensions of Montessori materials.
Lunch and outdoor play is from 11:15am-12:15pm. Each child brings their own lunch. The children assist with lunch set up and clean up, a task they take pride in. Children of this age are very social; grace and courtesy lessons are practiced.
Before/After Care & Summer can be added to this class.
Curriculum
Language/Reading:
The children learn the sounds of the letters and can associate the sound with the symbol. Once the children are phonetically aware, they begin blending sounds together and developing “word attack skills.” These skills include listening to a word, hearing the sounds, and spelling the word. This sequence develops a love of reading in the child. Our goal is to provide the foundation for fluent reading.
Math:
We offer a variety of math lessons. These include linear counting, calculations, geometric shapes, place value and odd & even.
Science:
Children take pride in caring for their environment. Students receive lessons in environmental sciences such as biology and geography. Often, the children will grow their own gardens at school. They love observing their plants and vegetables as they grow. This is a great example of our hands-on learning experience.
History:
History is an extension of our language curriculum. At this age, children gain a broader knowledge of time past, have a sense of the past versus the present, and learn to appreciate cultural differences. It is during their Kindergarten Year that children will be taught the graphic impression of the yearly time cycle and the days of the week.
Extension:
Many of the sensorial materials that your child used when they were younger are now used as extensions to materials. For example, the colored bead stair your child used for counting, can now be used for addition and multiplication.
Journals:
Each child will receive a journal that they will use to record work done during class. This encourages the act of writing, which in turn promotes handwriting.
Art:
The children develop an appreciation for fine arts. Artworks by various artists and in different mediums are displayed throughout the classroom. Students are introduced to many famous artists like Vincent Van Gogh, Georgia O’Keefe, Pablo Picasso, Jacob Lawrence, and Frida Kahlo. The children will also explore different styles and movements, such as Realism, Cubism, Impressionism, etc. Throughout the year, the children will use different art mediums and materials to create their own masterpieces.
Computer Science:
Computer Science is a subject naturally fit for the Montessori environment. We have created a novel Computer Science curriculum based on the Montessori method. Students will explore core concepts in the field and how they are used. All activities have been designed in accordance with the Montessori method and include attractive materials that can be used independently.
Latin:
Students receive weekly Latin lessons. In learning Latin, children enhance their knowledge of grammar and syntax. Latin is the language of law, government, logic, theology and is the best preparation for learning any language. About two thirds of English words are derived from Latin. Learning Latin is an efficient way to learn grammar and provides insights into English vocabulary. It also leads to an increase in scores on standardized tests.
Physical Education:
Students have recess daily. This includes free play and organized games. Staff will encourage cooperation, teamwork and good sportsmanship.
Skills Developed:
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Phonetic Awareness
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Handwriting Practice
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Concentration
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Self-Discipline
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Social Graces
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Concrete Math Experiences
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Literature Appreciation
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Independence
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Reasoning and Problem-Solving
In-House Field Trips:
In-House Field Trips are a unique feature of our Kindergarten and Elementary Programs. Twice a year, students in these classes enjoy a performance that complements the Montessori lessons taught in class. Over the years, we have had the opportunity to invite local musicians, artists, authors, historians, and scientists into our classrooms.
Share Your Class Night:
Share Your Class Night is a cherished tradition at Julia Brown Schools. Twice a year, parents are invited to join their child in our Montessori School. Children love showing their parents around their classroom and demonstrating their favorite Montessori materials.