Aldea Families
Children
whose families are involved in their education tend to get more from it.
At our school, there are many opportunities for parents to be involved in the education of their children.
Regular Communication
We feel it is very important for parents to be informed of what is happening both in the classroom and with the school. Aldea News, our regular newsletter is published frequently. Parents also have individual contact with their child's teacher upon pick up. In addition, if there are specific concerns, conferences can be arranged at any time.
Parent Observation
Parents are encouraged to come and observe the classroom at least two times during the school year. This exercise allows parents to see how their children function in the classroom and with their fellow students. This also provides an opportunity to see how their children will progress as they mature.
Cultural Celebrations
Each month, the children study a different country and its culture. At the end of the month, they have a cultural celebration, to which all parents are invited and encouraged to come.
Special Events
There are several special events during the school year. Families are invited and encouraged to come to picnics, cultural demonstrations, puppet shows, holiday parties, and graduation parties.
We believe in consistency between the home and school environment. We also feel it is important for parents to know what their children are doing in school. Most parents who attend these sessions learn interesting bits of information about the development of their children, and can better relate to them on their developmental plane. Spontaneous discussion among the parents at the session tends to be informative and supportive for all. During the time that your children are with us, we strongly encourage parents to attend each of the following sessions:
- Montessori Theory - A discussion of the observations and theories of Dr. Maria Montessori, and how they apply to the development of children, particularly in the preschool age group.
- Introduction to Practical Life - An introduction to the exercises in the Practical Life area of the classroom. Parents learn the purpose and method of teaching these lessons.
- Introduction to Sensorial - A discussion of the Sensorial area of the classroom includes a demonstration of the exercises and materials used.
- Introduction to Language - A discussion of the methods used in teaching children to read and write using the materials in the Language area of the classroom.
- Introduction to Mathematics - An interactive demonstration of the exercises and materials used for Mathematics lessons.
Aldea Parents -- The Aldea Montessori Parent Organization
Many families of Aldea students form lasting friendships through common interests and goals. In addition to the informal relationships, a group of parents has organized to make the school an even better place. Some of the activities organized by the parents are as follows:
- regular play groups
- outings to areas of interest
- mentoring program for new and prospective families
- parent work days at school
- outings to cultural events in the area