WHAT DOES CAMAS MONTESSORI SCHOOL OFFER?

*  Classroom student to adult ratios of 10:1

*  Clear limits in the classroom to ensure progress, safety and concentration.

*  Sequential progress in phonetic reading.

*  Family involvement and an open relationship between parents and teachers.

*  Opportunities for each child to develop independently and at their own pace

*  Emphasis on Christian values in a Montessori setting.
The children experience the freedom of choice, freedom of movement and concentration leading toward
independent function in the real world, not to mention the great joy they will feel having accomplished the many
tasks available to them.

The children are not "pushed" into academic studies; rather they are supported in the process of skill development as
they show interest.  They have no idea that this is "work", rather they are acting out their specific needs at specific times
in their lives.

This time begins generally at age 3 when they've already absorbed their world and now find an intense need to
experience it and function independently in it.
THE CURRICULUM:
The curriculum includes instruction and exercises in practical life, sensorial education, mathematics,
language arts, geography, nature and botany, handiwork, art and music.

These subjects are taught using Montessori equipment designed to stimulate self-teaching.  The
environment is one in which the basic virtues and values are consciously fostered.

An integral part of the Montessori process includes work activities which are chosen by the children
themselves.  Work materials have a fixed place in the classroom and are returned after use, emphasizing
that job completion and sharing with others are key life skills and Christian values.
A child (6) has already learned how to read, and is
now practicing grammar.  She is matching
adjectives (the blue cards) with the appropriate
nouns they describe (the black cards).  She may
choose to record her work onto a piece of paper.
A child (5) is demonstrating her skill with weaving -
a very relaxing and repetitive exercise which builds
concentration and eye/hand coordination.
A child (6) has had many lessons to develop his
concentration, leading up to this lesson: Food
Preparation.  Here he is slicing a banana (with a
knife) and will serve the pieces (with toothpicks) to
his classmates.
MISSION STATEMENT:
We recognize each child to be uniquely gifted and precious possessing a drive to develop themselves.  
Our educational goal is to provide supportive guidance in an enriched environment based on observation
of the children's interests and needs such that they can continuously rise to meet their potential.