Children’s House
3-6 years
The Children’s House (Primary program) is the heart of a Montessori education and a wonderful foundation for your child. Designed for children ages 3 to 6, it gently supports each child’s unique journey within a caring, nurturing community. Here, curiosity is encouraged, independence is fostered, and confidence blossoms—laying the framework for joyful learning and a lifelong love of discovery.
A Child Centered Approach to Learning
Many traditional classrooms are founded on the factory model of education where children are expected to focus primarily on the teacher who is teaching the same thing to all students. Our approach is different. Our specially trained teachers begin by observing each child’s unique interests, strengths, and needs. Instead of leading from the front of the room, they work alongside students—often one-on-one or in small groups—guiding, supporting, and nurturing each child’s natural curiosity and growth.
Growing Together in a Mixed Aged Community
Our individualized curriculum allows each child to learn and grow at a pace that feels just right for them, all within a warm, mixed-age community. Younger children are inspired by watching and interacting with older classmates, while older children flourish as they build confidence, practice leadership, and share their skills and kindness, guiding their younger peers along the way.
The Joy of Choice
Your child is invited to explore a wide range of concepts and activities through individual and small-group lessons, but the true magic happens when they make their own choices. During independent work, children select activities that spark their curiosity, dive in, experiment, and refine their skills—learning deeply while following their own interests and passions.
Montessori Materials - hands on learning
Montessori materials, backed by scientific research, are thoughtfully designed to encourage hands-on exploration and discovery. As your child engages with them, they develop a clear, concrete understanding of even the most abstract concepts—especially in areas like mathematics—building a strong academic foundation and understanding. Our classrooms have a complete set of AMI Montessori approved materials.
A Day Full of Discovery and Joy
While much of the day is filled with meaningful, self-directed activities, there’s also plenty of time for connection, laughter, and play. Teachers gather the children for songs, stories, and lessons that spark curiosity about culture, science, and history. Every day also includes generous outdoor time, where little ones can run freely, explore the world around them, dig in the earth, and share joyful moments with friends.
Kindergarten: The Capstone Year
Montessori education builds thoughtfully, year by year, with the three-year Children’s House (Primary) program—including the kindergarten year—ensuring your child’s early foundations fully blossom. Reading, writing, math, and geometry emerge naturally through hands-on exploration, giving children strong academic skills. Equally important, completing the full 3-year-cycle fosters confidence, curiosity, and a lasting love of learning, leaving your child fully prepared to thrive in the Elementary years.
Ready to move up
In the spring, our kindergarten students begin visiting the Elementary classroom, giving them a gentle and exciting introduction to our Elementary Program. When each child is ready—both academically and developmentally—they join the Elementary Program, usually around the age of six, stepping confidently into this next stage of their learning journey.
5 Star Reviews
“DMA has been a transformative experience for our 4-year-old daughter, both academically and socially. The nurturing environment, guided by AMI accredited excellence, has ignited her curiosity and love for learning, especially through the unique, hands-on experiences with farm animals and diverse sports programs. Her relationship with her teachers and classroom community has significantly bolstered her confidence and interpersonal skills. We are truly grateful to witness her joyful journey and substantial growth at this exceptional school. ”
— Katie D.“Walking into DMA, you can tell it holds true to their model of grace and courtesy. Our children have truly thrived learning in this environment. "
— Dylan H.