We know that the transition from preschool to elementary school is a big step, both for children and their families. In our Wren House classroom, which serves children ages three to Kindergarten, we focus on providing a solid foundation that not only gets them ready for the next stage of their education but also helps them develop a lifelong love of learning. Our Montessori approach encourages curiosity, independence, and critical thinking—skills that will serve them well, whether they continue in Montessori or move to a traditional school.
The Montessori Approach in Wren House
Montessori education is all about hands-on learning, self-discovery, and encouraging children to take an active role in their education. In Wren House, our teachers create an environment where children can choose their activities and explore subjects that interest them. This kind of individualized attention and freedom to learn at their own pace helps children develop confidence in their abilities.
Even though Montessori classrooms may seem different from traditional schools, the skills children develop here—independence, responsibility, and time management—prepare them for elementary school in a big way. And the best part? They are excited to continue learning, no matter what kind of school they go to next.
Building Independence and Confidence
One of the core values of Montessori education is fostering independence in young learners. At Wren House, we give children the space to make choices about their day, from selecting activities to managing their work. This not only helps them learn to be responsible for their own actions but also builds their confidence as they discover they can succeed on their own.
This sense of independence is a huge benefit when children move on to elementary school. They are already used to making decisions, organizing their work, and taking ownership of their learning. These skills help them transition smoothly into a more structured environment where they are expected to be self-starters.
Getting Ready for Academics
Although Montessori education is known for its hands-on learning, it also provides a strong academic foundation. In Wren House, children explore reading, writing, math, and science through engaging activities that connect to their everyday lives. We use Montessori materials—like sandpaper letters for early reading and counting beads for math—that make abstract concepts concrete and fun.
These hands-on activities not only build academic skills but also make learning enjoyable. Children become problem-solvers, thinkers, and independent learners as they explore topics at their own pace. By the time they are ready for elementary school, they have a solid foundation in literacy, numeracy, and critical thinking that will serve them well in any classroom.
Encouraging Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving
In Wren House, children are encouraged to think for themselves. Rather than just memorizing facts, they are taught to ask questions, solve problems, and engage with their work in meaningful ways. Whether they’re experimenting in science, figuring out how to build a structure with blocks, or exploring new ways to express themselves in art, children develop problem-solving skills that help them tackle challenges from different angles.
These critical thinking skills are invaluable when they move on to elementary school, where they’ll need to approach new tasks, projects, and problems with creativity and confidence. Montessori prepares them to be proactive learners who are excited to figure things out on their own.
Developing Social and Emotional Skills
Social and emotional development is just as important as academic readiness. In Wren House, children learn how to communicate, share, and work together with their peers. They practice resolving conflicts, offering help to others, and building friendships in a supportive environment.
These social skills are crucial when children enter elementary school. Whether they’re joining a new classroom or meeting new classmates, the ability to navigate social situations and work cooperatively with others will make the transition easier. Montessori encourages children to develop empathy and emotional awareness, which helps them build positive relationships and handle challenges with maturity.
The Montessori Benefits, Even Outside Montessori
Even if children don’t continue in a Montessori environment after Wren House, the skills they develop here stick with them. The self-confidence, independence, and love of learning they gain in a Montessori classroom are valuable no matter where they go. Montessori isn’t just about the materials or specific methods—it’s about teaching children to be curious, thoughtful, and capable.
When children leave Wren House, they are prepared for elementary school with strong academic skills, emotional resilience, and the ability to think critically. These traits make it easier for them to adjust to a traditional classroom environment, where they will continue to grow as independent learners.
Wren House Prepares Children for Success, No Matter Where They Go
At Wren House, our goal is to help each child build the skills they need to thrive in elementary school and beyond. By focusing on independence, critical thinking, and social-emotional growth, we set children up for a smooth transition to their next educational journey. Whether they continue in Montessori or move to a traditional school, the foundation they’ve built here will serve them for years to come. Most importantly, we help them develop a lifelong love of learning that will stay with them no matter where they go.