St. Columba Preschool is a Montessori based, eclectic preschool for children 3 to 6 years of age divided into two classrooms. The Preschool which is ages 3 & 4 year olds and the Pre-K, which is our 4 and 5 year olds. Although it is Montessori based, we incorporate NAEYC educational philosophies concerning developmentally appropriate learning environments. The classroom is designed to meet the needs of the children’s sensitive periods of learning. The children are encouraged to choose work and activities that interest them from a wide range of materials throughout the classroom. As the children make their choices in the carefully prepared environment, they develop intellectual, emotional, and social skills, as well as a positive self-image.

Our roles as teachers is to provide a rich and stimulating environment in which the children may choose work freely and individually. Additionally, we facilitate interaction between children and their environment. Utilizing the children’s self-motivation, we challenge them further in the areas of their special interest. The children will not be pushed, but rather be provided with a setting that they may learn freely in their unique way at their own pace.

St. Columba Preschool is structured so that the children have extended periods of time or “uninterrupted work” to choose activities and pursue their interests from the varied learning centers. The centers include math, art, language, snack, practical life, Geography, science, sensory, reading and a large block area for manipulative play. A dramatic play area is also rotated in and out of the classroom. St. Columba Preschool incorporates a Science theme curriculum such as Dinosaurs, the solar system, oceans, insects and plants and an around the world theme. There are also group activities such as music, stories, movements, games, guided role-playing, problem solving practice, show and tell and discussion.

We believe that creative play choices are important, and that all choices are equal in their educational value. Children are helped and encouraged when needed. The children are encouraged to interact with the teacher as well as the classroom activities.