Casa Program (Ages 2.5 to 6 years)
Our Casa program is designed for children between the ages of 2.5 to 6 years. Our Casa classes are taught by certified Montessori teachers. Students graduating from the Casa program are provided with a strong foundation upon which they will continue to build throughout their elementary years. The classrooms are well equipped with materials appropriate for the Montessori method.
Our Casa curriculum includes the following areas of study:
Practical Life
The exercises of practical life prepare the child indirectly for all the other areas of curriculum. It lays the foundation for sequential thinking, concentration, co-ordination, abstract understanding and self confidence.
"Any child who is self-sufficient, who can tie his shoes, dress or undress himself, reflects in his joy and sense of achievement the image of human dignity, which is derived from a sense of independence. "
Maria Montessori
Sensorial
Sensorial materials vary in dimension, colour, shape, texture, smell and taste. They are designed specifically to develop children's senses and enable them to gain awareness of the world around them. The sensorial area builds the child's concentration for a wider awakening of the senses and perception for distinguishing different qualities.
Language
Language plays an important role in facilitating thought, communication and learning. The language curriculum includes oral language activities, pre-reading work, writing and reading comprehension.
Initial sounds are introduced through sandpaper letters and matching objects. After the children learn a few sounds, they are then introduced to blending exercises through movable alphabets. The Metal insets are used to refine pencil control and help to improve writing skills.
Mathematics
Montessori mathematics focuses on the fundamental skills to calculate. The children learn linear counting and recognition of numerals and the recognition of quantity as well through concrete material. Children learn exactly how much a symbolic number stands for. Mathematics activities are divided into six categories that include: counting and the decimal system, memory work, concrete abstraction, arithmetic tables and geometry.
Cultural Studies
Dr Maria Montessori felt that having knowledge and understanding of such subjects is what makes one a "Cultured" person.
Montessori cultural curriculum is focuses on science, geography, music and art. Yoga exercises are a modern addition to the program which helps child to concentrate. During the year children learn about land, air and water, maps, continents, animals, people, food and music from other countries. Our Casa children enjoy exploring these areas which leads to curiosity and satisfaction.
French
There are many benefits to early second-language learning. Focus is on the first stages of language learning (listening and speaking) through hands on meaningful experiences. The program emphasizes and promotes a strong oral foundation in French.
Godly Play
ASMS' Christian education is based on the Godly Play curriculum that coincides with the Montessori teaching method. The children enjoy half an hour of storytelling using wooden props and enhanced with games and crafts. This program respects the innate spirituality and intellect of children and encourages curiosity and imagination in experiencing the mystery and joy of God's love for them and for the world.
