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Wonder &
     Wander

Parkside Community Montessori Preschool in Sterling Virginia Colorful Dots

The Gift of Montessori Education

 

Childhood is such a special time—a time of wonder, discovery, and endless possibility. Every child is born with curiosity and a deep desire to learn, and the way we nurture that spark makes all the difference. That’s why a Montessori education is such a beautiful gift. It helps children grow into capable, confident, and kind people who know how to care for themselves and others.

Let’s take a little time together to think about what makes Montessori so special.

Growing Capable and Confident Children

Children feel a deep sense of pride when they learn to do things for themselves. In a Montessori classroom, every child is given the time and space to explore, make choices, and solve problems. The materials in the classroom are just right for their little hands and growing minds, helping them build confidence in their abilities.

Children choose their work based on their interests, and because they are trusted to make those decisions, they develop an inner motivation to learn—not just for a test, but because they love discovering new things. They work alone, in pairs, and in small groups, learning how to collaborate and help one another. These experiences shape the way they approach the world—with curiosity, patience, and a willingness to try.

Learning to Be Responsible

It feels good to take responsibility for something, doesn’t it? In a Montessori classroom, children learn to care for their space and their work. They know where everything belongs, and they take pride in keeping their classroom beautiful and organized.

They also take responsibility for their learning. Instead of moving through lessons at the same pace as everyone else, they learn at a rhythm that feels just right for them. Their teachers watch carefully, offering guidance when needed, but always allowing the child to take the lead. When children are given this trust, they develop a deep sense of accountability—not because someone is watching, but because they know their work matters.

Discovering the Joy of Learning

Have you ever watched a child get lost in something they love? Maybe they’re building a tower, painting a picture, or figuring out how to tie their shoes. In Montessori, learning feels just like that—joyful and full of discovery.

The hands-on materials help children truly understand what they’re learning, whether it’s counting beads to see how numbers work or tracing sandpaper letters to feel the shape of words. Over time, they develop order, concentration, and independence—important skills that will help them in school and in life. Because Montessori allows children to learn at their own pace, they never feel rushed or held back. Instead, they move forward with confidence, knowing that their learning is just right for them.

A Place to Belong

One of the most wonderful things about Montessori is the way it creates a sense of community. Children stay with the same teacher and classmates for three years, building strong relationships and learning from one another. The older children take care of the younger ones, just like big brothers and sisters do, while the younger children look up to them with admiration.

This sense of belonging helps children feel safe and valued. They know their voices matter, their ideas are important, and they have something special to offer the world. And when children feel seen and respected, they grow into adults who show that same kindness to others.

Maria Montessori once said,

“Free the child’s potential, and you will transform him into the world.”

And isn’t that a lovely thought? When we give children the freedom to explore, the trust to learn at their own pace, and the love of a caring community, they grow into exactly who they are meant to be.

And that is a beautiful thing.

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Parkside Montessori Preschool in Sterling Logo

624 W Church Road

Sterling, Virginia 20164

 

Contact Us

 

Tel. 703.232.1154

Parkside Community Montessori embraces and celebrates diversity, recognizing that it strengthens our workplace, enriches our school community, fosters collaboration, and promotes mutual respect and open-minded thinking. We are an equal opportunity employer committed to fair and inclusive hiring practices. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy or related conditions, or any other characteristic protected by law. Privacy Policy

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