The start of a new school year is a time of excitement, curiosity, and change, especially for Montessori children. Whether your little one is starting preschool, moving into Casa, or transitioning into Lower Elementary, preparing them gently and intentionally can help ease the adjustment and set them up for success.
In true Montessori fashion, our approach is guided by the child, respecting their developmental stage and giving them tools to build confidence and independence.
Pre-Casa (Under 3 Years Old)
What to Expect:
Children under 3 are absorbing their environment like sponges. They may be starting Montessori toddler programs for the first time, so the change in routine, faces, and separation from home can feel big.
Tips to Prepare:
- Establish a Predictable Routine at home: Predictability brings comfort. Slowly align your daily schedule with the upcoming school routine (wake-up, meals, nap, etc.).
- Practice Independence: Allow your child to participate in daily self-care tasks, putting on shoes, feeding themselves, washing hands. This builds confidence for the classroom.
- Introduce Separation Gradually: Try short periods of separation with trusted caregivers and always say goodbye (no sneaking out!).
Montessori Tip: Create a small “school cubby” at home with a child-sized backpack and shoes to let them practice getting ready.
Casa / Preschool & Kindergarten (Ages 3–6)
What to Expect:
This is a time of huge growth in social, emotional, and cognitive development. Children in this age range are often eager for independence but may still feel big emotions around change.
Tips to Prepare:
- Create a Calm Morning Routine: Visual schedules or a picture-based checklist can help children feel more in control and reduce chaos.
- Build Practical Life Skills: Pouring water, cleaning up, dressing themselves, these skills foster independence and help children feel capable at school.
- Talk Positively About School: Share stories and books about school experiences. Avoid overly hyping or expressing your own anxiety.
Recommended Reading:
“Llama Llama Misses Mama” by Anna Dewdney
“The Kissing Hand” by Audrey Penn
General Preparation Tips for All Ages
- Read Together Daily: This promotes literacy, bonding, and routine.
- Normalize Emotions: Big feelings about change are okay. Validate and reassure them while modeling calmness.
- Practice Saying Goodbye: Always say goodbye with a calm and confident tone, it signals safety and trust.
Want to Read More? Here Are Some Great Montessori-Inspired Articles:
- Preparing Your Child for the First Day at Montessori: Tips for Parents
https://creativeworldofmontessori.com/preparing-your-child-for-the-first-day-at-montessori-tips-for-parents/ - Back to School Checklist
https://westernheightsmontessori.com/back-to-school-checklist/ - How To Prepare Your Child For The First Day Of School
https://themontessoriroom.com/blogs/montessori-tips/the-real-school-prep-list - Getting Ready For (Montessori) School
https://www.howwemontessori.com/how-we-montessori/2014/01/getting-ready-for-montessori-school.html