Rooted in Curiosity, Built on Independence
At Buttons & Bows, our Montessori-inspired approach celebrates the natural curiosity of young children while gently guiding them toward independence. We draw from the foundational principles of Dr. Maria Montessori—like hands-on learning, self-directed activity, and respectful guidance—to help each child grow at their own pace.
While we are not a certified Montessori school, we thoughtfully weave key Montessori practices into our daily routine. From child-sized materials to purposeful play and choice-driven activities, we embrace what works best for preschoolers in a warm, joyful, and family-oriented setting. It’s our way of honoring the best of Montessori, tailored to fit the heart and rhythm of Buttons & Bows.
Key Montessori Principles in Action
Child-Led Exploration
Our classrooms are designed for discovery. Children are encouraged to choose their own activities based on their interests and readiness. This freedom builds confidence and nurtures a true love of learning—one where every child feels ownership over their experience.
Purposeful Play
From sorting and counting beads to practicing pouring or buttoning, our materials are thoughtfully selected to develop fine motor skills, focus, and early academic foundations. Every activity has a purpose that connects learning with real-life skills.
Prepared Environment
We create calm, organized spaces where children can move freely and engage meaningfully. Everything in our classrooms—from shelves to work mats—is child-sized and thoughtfully arranged to foster independence and respect for their surroundings.
Respect for the Child
Our teachers act as gentle guides, observing closely and offering support when needed—without interrupting a child’s process. We meet each child where they are and celebrate their individual journey, promoting trust and self-assurance.
Real-Life Learning Moments
In our Montessori-inspired spaces, you might see a 3-year-old carefully pouring water from one pitcher to another, or a 4-year-old focused on a number-matching activity using tactile materials. You’ll notice children sweeping the floor after snack time, sequencing colored blocks, or quietly concentrating on threading beads.
These simple moments build focus, coordination, responsibility, and confidence. It’s real learning disguised as play—gentle, joyful, and deeply effective.
Building Skills for Life Not Just Kindergarten
Montessori-inspired learning builds essential life skills from the inside out. Children develop:
- Confidence and self-direction
- Fine motor and coordination skills
- Early literacy and math foundations
- Emotional regulation and patience
- Social awareness and empathy
It’s an ideal match for preschoolers ages 3–5—helping them gain the tools they need for kindergarten and life, while still allowing room for imagination and joy.
Balanced, Thoughtful, and Joyful
At Buttons & Bows, Montessori is just one part of our thoughtfully blended curriculum. We combine its strengths with HighScope’s proven structure and a music-rich, play-based environment—giving your child the best of all worlds.
Families love that our preschool offers the structure of traditional learning with the warmth and flexibility of Montessori-style exploration. “My son became so independent after just a few weeks,” one parent shared. “He started pouring his own juice at home—and couldn’t wait to come to school every day.”
See Montessori-Inspired Learning in Action Action
Experience how Buttons & Bows blends structure, freedom, and joy in our preschool classrooms. Come visit and see what makes our approach so effective and loved by families.