Lower Elementary
Grades 1–3
Extended Montessori work periods, small-group lessons, and enrichment in Spanish, Music, Art, and P.E. help students grow in collaboration, curiosity, and critical thinking.
Early Childhood (Preschool), Ages 2.5 - 6
In our multi-age Early Childhood classrooms (ages 2.5–6), children build independence, focus, and confidence through hands-on Montessori materials and purposeful routines. Guides observe and individualize lessons so each child progresses at the right pace—developing strong foundations in language, math, and social-emotional skills.
Early Childhood
At a Glance
- Ages: 2.5–6
- Multi-age classroom, 3-year cycle
- Credentialed Montessori teachers
- Low teacher–student ratio (1:12)
- Full-day and extended-day options available
- Kindergarten year as capstone of the program
Montessori Curriculum (Ages 2.5-6)
Practical Life
Children build independence and coordination through real-life activities such as pouring, sweeping, and food preparation.
Sensorial
Specialized Montessori materials refine the senses—helping children classify, compare, and describe their world.
Language
From spoken vocabulary to early reading and writing, children explore phonetics, storytelling, and pre-literacy skills at their own pace.
Mathematics
Concrete materials introduce counting, the decimal system, addition, subtraction, and the joy of mathematical thinking.
Cultural Studies
Science, geography, art, and music help children explore cultures, the natural world, and their place within it.
Kindergarten - The Capstone Year
The Kindergarten year is the final stage of the Early Childhood cycle. Students take on leadership roles in the classroom, deepen their academic work, and enjoy enrichment opportunities such as Spanish, Music, Art, and Physical Education.
A Typical Day in Early Childhood
Children in our Early Childhood program enjoy a balanced day of focused learning, outdoor play, and enrichment experiences. The rhythm of the day provides both structure and flexibility to support independence and exploration.
- Arrival & Morning Work Period – Children settle in and begin their Montessori work cycle, receiving individual lessons and choosing activities that match their interests.
- Circle Time – Group gathering for songs, movement, storytelling, and classroom community building.
- Outdoor Play & Lunch – Children enjoy fresh air and active play, then eat lunch together in small groups.
- Afternoon Activities – Younger children may rest, while others participate in enrichment such as yoga, art, or music.
- Second Work Period – Individual and small-group lessons continue, supporting each child’s developmental progress.
- Dismissal & Extended Care – Families pick up at dismissal, with optional after-school care including arts & crafts, outdoor play, and snack until 6:00 pm.
The Prepared Environment
Our classrooms are designed to encourage independence and discovery. Every material has a purpose, and children learn to care for their environment, respect one another, and take responsibility for their own learning.
Partnering with Families
We value open communication and collaboration with parents. Regular conferences, parent communication, and family events ensure we work together to support each child’s growth at school and at home.
Children may enroll as early as 2.5 years and remain through Kindergarten (age 6).
Yes, children should be in regular underwear. Teachers support routines to help them maintain independence at school.
Guides carefully observe and present lessons at each child’s readiness, allowing students to progress at their own pace.
The three-year cycle, capped by Kindergarten, develops confidence, academic readiness, and social maturity for a smooth transition.
Spanish and Music are offered to all Early Childhood students. Kindergarten students also participate in Art and Physical Education.
See an Early Childhood classroom in person
Visit during the work cycle to watch children choosing lessons, working independently, and getting individual presentations from their Montessori teacher.
Book an Early Childhood Tour“The primary classroom focuses on building a secure environment where my son safely indulges in his curiosity to learn and observe. The curriculum includes practical life tools, sensorial exercises, language arts, outdoor play, music and Spanish. The primary classroom also emphasizes grace and courtesy every day, which transitions into our home along with my sons drive to be independent in the home environment, too.Ms. Osterberg, specifically, observes my sons interests and provides detailed feedback about his progress during every parent-teacher conference. She provides thoughtful recommendations on activity ideas, too! We have open communication with the school-classroom and share major life events that are occurring in our personal lives, and this allows my sons teachers to support him further through life transitions.The entire CMS staff is kind, supportive and accessible. Our family feels safe in their welcoming environment.CMS creates a positive culture to help all students thrive and we are so grateful for their ongoing efforts in our sons growth!”
-Riddhi, Ladybugs Parent
Summer Program
With summer’s arrival comes the fun camps at Country Montessori School!
Each week brings a different theme, encouraging children to explore an interest or develop a new skill. All camps include arts, crafts, and hands-on learning.
Our experienced educators lead camps, where children can be enrolled individually for a full-day! There is also time to play in Country Montessori School’s large playgrounds.
Logistics:
- Our three-acre campus in Poway provides a peaceful and secure environment.
- Child care is available both before and after camp.
- Early Childhood is for 2.5-year-olds through to incoming Kindergarten students, and Elementary Camp support graduating kindergarteners through incoming 5th graders.
Lower Elementary
Upper Elementary
Grades 4–5
Leadership, research projects, and advanced Montessori academics that prepare students for middle school and beyond.
Summer Program
Preschool – 5th Grade
Seven weeks of themed camps bring learning to life — from ocean exploration and dinosaurs for younger children to sports, adventure, and STEM for older students. Each week blends hands-on activities, creativity, and outdoor fun.