Primary (Ages 3-6)

A peaceful Montessori classroom for ages 3–6, where children begin building independence, confidence, and a lasting love of learning.

Primary child Primary child

Joy. Courage. Discovery.

Our Primary environment serves children ages 3–6 in a nurturing, community where young learners build confidence, independence, and a lasting love of learning.

Each day is filled with hands-on exploration and purposeful work, while children learn at their own pace. Guided by caring educators, they build concentration, coordination, and care for others and the world around them.

Rooted in Christian values, our program gently weaves in faith through songs, stories, prayer, and a spirit of grace. The result is a peaceful, joyful space where children thrive. 

A Montessori Preschool & Kindergarten Experience

Our Primary program combines preschool and kindergarten into one cohesive, multi-age classroom.

Children typically remain in this environment from age 3 to 6:

  • Beginning with foundational skills and independence
  • Growing into confident, capable learners
  • Finishing their kindergarten year as leaders in the classroom

For families seeking a kindergarten alternative in Charlotte, this final year offers strong academic readiness, leadership opportunities, and a deep sense of confidence before moving into our elementary program.

Montessori vs. Daycare: What’s the Difference?

While many childcare programs focus primarily on supervision and play, a Montessori classroom is intentionally designed to support learning, independence, and growth.

In our Primary environment:

  • Children choose purposeful, hands-on work rather than rotating through activities
  • Guides and facilitators observe rather than direct every step
  • Materials are carefully designed to build skills progressively
  • Multi-age classrooms encourage collaboration and leadership

The result is a calm, focused environment where children develop independence, concentration, and a genuine love of learning.

Program highlights

  • Montessori materials and hands-on learning
  • Focus on independence and responsibility
  • Daily outdoor play and nature time
  • Practical life, language, and math foundations
  • Gentle faith integration through stories and songs
  • Rich sensorial and cultural experiences
  • Quiet, focused work time
  • Strong social-emotional growth
  • Warm, joyful classroom community

Half-Day & Full-Day Options Options

Children ages 3 and 4 may attend either:

  • Half-Day: 8:30am – 12:00pm
  • Full-Day: 8:30am – 2:45pm

Both options provide a rich Montessori experience. Many families begin with half-day and transition to full-day as their child grows in independence and stamina. Tuition is the same for both programs.

Daily Schedule

A Day in Primary

A calm rhythm of work, community, and discovery

Arrive & Settle

Warm welcome, greetings, and a calm start

8:10–8:30

Morning Work

Deep, uninterrupted work — math, language, practical life, and more

8:30–11:30
LUNCH & RECESS

Afternoon Work / Rest Time

Work cycle, rest as needed, and continued lessons

12:30–2:30

Community Care

Tidy together, reflect on the day, and prepare to head home

2:30–2:45

Arrival & Morning Transition (8:10–8:30)

Children are dropped off and enter the classroom independently. They begin with a quiet activity, allowing for a calm, gentle transition into the day before gathering together at 8:30.

Morning Work Cycle (8:30–11:30)

We begin each morning together with a prayer, devotional, and quick lesson. Children then engage in a long, uninterrupted work period. During this time, children are free to choose activities that interests them, move at their own pace, and engage in focused, meaningful work.

Lunch & Outdoor Play (11:30–12:30)

When the weather allows, we enjoy lunch outdoors at the picnic tables, followed by time to play and explore. Our outdoor space encourages imaginative play, movement, and friendship, giving children the chance to recharge before returning to the classroom.

Rest Time (12:30-1:30)

Children who benefit from a midday nap have the opportunity to rest in a quiet, peaceful space.
This peaceful break helps them return to the classroom refreshed

Afternoon Work Cycle (12:30–2:30)

Children who do not nap engage in an afternoon work cycle, continuing with purposeful activities.
Following rest time, the napping children join.

Community Care & Dismissal (2:30–2:45)

At the end of the day, children help tidy the classroom, gather their belongings, and prepare for dismissal. This routine builds responsibility and care for their environment.

Dismissal Window (2:45-3:15)

Families arrive during the dismissal window to pick up their children at the back of the schoolhouse. During this time, we ensure each child is safely dismissed with their belongings and a cheerful goodbye.