Park City, Utah

These are the first exercises introduced to the children. They create the foundation upon which all other work in the classroom depends. Practical Life exercises include care of self and the environment, as well as the development of large and fine motor control. These practical experiences in everyday activities are the cornerstone of the Montessori Method.

The focus of the Practical Life area is to develop coordination, independence, a sense of order, and above all, concentration.

Sensorial activities assist Toddlers in the great task of organizing, integrating and learning about their sensory input. The sensorial materials are designed to simplify learning and awareness of the environment by isolating difficulty; isolating the senses; encouraging mastery through repetition; possessing self-correction within the material; and presenting an attractive appearance to the child.

The goals of the Sensorial area are to strengthen and refine each of the child’s senses and pincer grasp, develop the organization and patterning skills inherent in math and language concepts that build upon the sensory awareness stimulated by these materials.

Maria Montessori observed that the potential exists for children to develop the higher language skills of reading and writing with the same ease with which they acquire oral speech. This “explosion” into literacy occurs naturally in the primary years if children are presented with the tools and experiences needed to nourish this organic inclination to learn.

The goals of the Language Materials are for the child to develop a rich vocabulary and a strong foundation in phonetics. A child’s natural desire to read and express her thoughts through writing are stimulated. An appreciation for the rhythm and beauty of language through literature and poetry is instilled.

A carefully sequenced progression of mathematical activities from concrete to more abstract materials, simple to increasingly complex operations and lastly, tools for memorization of facts ensure a child’s whole brain development. The process and problem solving are first and foremost. Movement, active participation, and opportunities to problem solve, stimulate all four lobes of the brain, and nourish the child’s interest. Dr. Montessori created math materials that spark the imagination of the eagerly curious child.

Mathematical concepts are learned with ease and true understanding because the materials and lessons connect the hand and the mind in a most crucial and powerful way.

Both the history and geography curriculum reinforce and further cultivate a great sense of awe and gratitude for the planet and humankind by slowly and meticulously broadening a child’s awareness of community, environment, country, and human evolution and discovery throughout time.

The entire course of study is interwoven with the Great Lessons, through the power of stories, which inspire and encourage children to become stewards of the earth through discussions and meaningful interactions with beautiful materials.

Art and music represent ways to communicate, ideas, imagination, culture, and humanity. Just as a child requires skills to write or dance or swim, she needs to also be given the tools and techniques to create her own masterpieces.

Info Coming Soon.

Little Miners offers Yoga, Ski, Ice Skating, Stretch & Grow, as well as plenty of outdoor time.