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Selecting a Preschool: An Important Choice

Dec 31, 2015 06:00AM ● By Pamela Johnson
Where does the time go? Our babies have somehow grown into toddlers and preschoolers before our very eyes. They are energetic and curious about everything they encounter. So what’s the next step? An environment that nurtures that adventurous mind, encourages developing independence and promotes a love for learning--an environment like Sunrise Montessori School.

Established in Franklin in 2005, Sunrise Montessori School is a nonprofit organization that provides preschool through kindergarten programs to children ages 2.9 through 6. Director Karen Roeber explains how the philosophy of Dr. Maria Montessori is the foundation of the programs offered at Sunrise.
 
Dr. Maria Montessori, a pioneer in early childhood education, observed that children learned best through their own experiences. Montessori schools promote direct, hands-on experiences through the careful setup and preparation of their classrooms, materials and activities.

Learning materials are specially designed and sequenced so that children are introduced initially to basic concepts and then progress, according to their own pace, to more difficult and challenging activities. Karen Roeber further elaborates: “The children enjoy practical life skills like buttoning, scooping, cutting, and gardening. These activities encourage them to care for themselves as well as their environment. This part of the curriculum builds skills that will stay with them throughout their lives.” Other important curriculum areas include Sensorial, Language, Math, Science, Geography, the Arts and Grace & Courtesy.
 
What makes Sunrise different from other preschools? Take a moment to observe in the classrooms and you’ll see something quite remarkable. The children are engaged in activities and social interactions of their own choice. The teachers observe and guide the children throughout the day, periodically presenting a lesson to a small group or working one-on-one to introduce a new concept.

What is the result of this type of setting? Children develop concentration, practice fine motor skills, feel joyful and encouraged by their accomplishments and are respectful of one another and their classroom. Parents often sum it up this way--their children love coming to school and can’t wait to explore even further.

Ready to take that next step? Call Karen Roeber at 508-541-8010 to set up a personal tour of the classrooms during the school day or stop by during an open house. Sunrise Montessori School is located at 31Hayward Street, Franklin, and is easily reached via West Central Street (Route 140).

Open House events will be held on Jan. 23 and Feb. 13, from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm. For additional information, visit the school’s website at www.MySunriseMontessori.com.
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