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12/30/2018 11:00 PMShoreline School of Montessori is a preschool and kindergarten that has been proudly serving shoreline area families since 1985. Back then, "playschools" were the norm as a way for children to develop socialization, but there were parents in the shoreline area seeking more than that for their 3- to 6-year-old children. They learned that Dr. Maria Montessori, one of the fi rst female Italian physicians, had scientifi cally observed and worked with children for most of her adult life, proving that the early years are the single most important period in the development of a person's intelligence. Now, more than 100 years later, the Montessori approach continues to be highly revered as a hallmark of quality.
Current brain studies highlight the fact (understood by Montessori more than a century ago!) that a child's mind from birth through age 5 is extremely absorbent and should be properly nourished and stimulated. At Shoreline School of Montessori, the program is well balanced, emphasizing cognitive opportunities equally with social-emotional and physical development under the nurturing guidance of specially trained teachers. Here, children thrive in a setting that fosters independence and creativity, allows freedom within limits, and celebrates the uniqueness of every child.
The school helps children to develop in a mixed-age setting to off er a family feel and to establish a strong community. Younger children get a chance to look ahead, while the older students reinforce their knowledge when sharing it with their younger classmates, building self-confi dence and self-esteem. The school is inspired by each child and taps their curiosity based upon where they are in their development. Recognizing that it is just a part of a child's life, the school also off ers many opportunities for the students' parents through guest speakers and workshops held at the school.
"Coming from a large loving family, I have always adored children and found it fascinating to see how they absorb information and engage with their environment," says Director Regina Satterthwaite. "I feel truly fortunate to work with this age group every day. After starting here in 1992 part-time as the children's literature coordinator, I quickly saw the benefi ts of Montessori. This led to my post graduate certifi cation in Montessori primary education and in 2000, I became director of this beloved program.
"Our world is changing so rapidly due to so-called advances in technology that I fear children could be at risk of losing some necessary, simple basics as communicating and empathizing. We never hesitate to help the children express their own emotions or try to understand those of a classmate," Satterthwaite continues. "The step stones for reading, writing, and arithmetic are surely engaged in our program for each child when they are interested and ready, but we also emphasize helping the children learn to be good citizen –both inside our classroom and out in the world."
This story was provided by Shoreline School of Montessori, located at 675 East Main Street, Branford. For enrollment and more information about daily activities and structure, contact Director Regina Satterthwaite at 203-481-5888 or visit www.shorelineschool.com.