Frequently Asked Questions
Why choose a Montessori Education for my child?
In a Montessori environment, your child has the advantage of a holistic (well rounded) education. The activities in the "prepared environment" promote the child's emotional, social, and intellectual development. Contrary to the "one-lesson-fits-all" approach, Montessori children learn at their own pace with materials that appeal to their individual interest. Attention and curriculum is individualized so as to allow the child's full potential to flourish with direction from the teacher. Consequently, Mi Sol students are generally working above grade level.
How is Spanish immersion different than Spanish classes?
Spanish Immersion Programs expose the learner to Spanish at all times. Through immersion the child reproduces sounds as a native speaker does; without an accent! For a young learner, this is the most effective and most natural way to achieve fluency in the target language. Spanish classes provide minimal exposure to the language. Due to the minimal exposure and large gaps between classes, vocabulary is limited, retention is difficult and reproduction is clumsy.
What are the benefits of a Spanish Immersion Program?
Children can take in a second language best before the age of six. Studies indicate that individuals who learn a second language during their first years of life are more proficient in the areas of language, math, reading, and writing. In addition, children fluent in two languages develop excellent analytical reasoning skills, concept formation skills, and cognitive flexibility. Needless to say, knowledge of a foreign language opens more doors and increases the individual's chances of career success.
What about English?
English is a very important part of our program. As the child progresses through the program he will participate in our English program which is designed and implemented by our Montessori Certified, State Certified K-9th grade teacher. Prior to this point, the child's exposure to English is at home among family, friends and neighbors.
We don't speak any Spanish now, will this program work?
Yes! This program is designed for any child that would like to learn the language. English is the primary language for all our students.
My child already speaks two languages, will a third confuse him?
No. It has been our experience that bilingual children become trilingual almost effortlessly. The time of least resistance for a human to learn multiple languages is from birth to age 6.
What happens to the Spanish after graduation, will my child lose it?
No. It is much like riding a bicycle. The foundation for the language has been created, the wiring is in place. Your child may become rusty from non-exposure but when reintroduced to the language, the child effortlessly regains mastery.
Do I have to wait for the beginning of a semester to enroll my child?
No. You may enroll your child (space permitting) at any time of the year. Montessori recognizes that children learn and develop at different paces. Our curriculum is tailored to the child's current developmental stage. This allows us to focus on the child's strengths and weaknesses.
How much does the program cost?
Our tuition starts at $30.00 per day. Tuition is based on your chosen arrival and dismissal times. Please call to schedule a visit.
Where can I learn more about the Montessori philosophy?
We encourage you to research. The following links are a good place to start:
