Daycare describes child care during the day. Preschool usually refers to a program before elementary school. Montessori is an approach to learning that can shape either one. At Virginia Montessori Academy, we care for infants and toddlers and offer preschool through kindergarten in Montessori classrooms.
What Montessori means for a baby
For a baby, care is the day. In our infant room, from eight weeks to 16 months, we follow each baby's rhythm for feeds and naps. A guide talks with the baby during one-to-one care and gives them space on the floor to move, reach, and grasp. We keep parents updated about the day. If you're choosing infant care, this is where our approach begins: with an adult paying attention to your baby's own pace.
How our guides help toddlers learn
As children grow, our guides watch what they're ready to try and introduce materials one at a time. A younger toddler may practice spooning or watering a plant; an older toddler may peel a banana or use a dressing frame. They do the task themselves, and the guide is close enough to help when they need it.
The young toddler room welcomes children from 16 months to two years; the toddler room is for ages two to three, with a longer stretch for morning activity. The day also includes books, songs, outdoor time, and rest.
Preschool and kindergarten in Children's House
Children's House brings three- to six-year-olds together, including kindergarteners. Children have a long morning work cycle, while guides offer individual and small-group lessons. A child may arrange flowers, then return to that work another day. A guide may introduce sandpaper letters or number rods when a child is ready to explore language or numbers. The child has time to handle the materials and try again, rather than needing to get it on the first attempt.
Choosing care for your child’s age and routine
Care and learning are part of many daycares and preschools. Here, a guide introduces a lesson, and the child has time to choose an activity and try it again. That may suit a child who's eager to do things for themselves. For a baby, the more immediate question is how adults follow their feeds, naps, and movement. You can see how our guides respond to children when you visit.
Your family's week matters too. We offer two- and three-day options for children under three, subject to availability. Children's House is a five-day program. We can tell you about current openings and tuition.
Visit our Purcellville classrooms
Come visit us at 130 E Main St, Purcellville, VA 20132, and bring your child if you'd like. We'll show you the classrooms and playground, introduce you to teachers, and talk with you about routines, programs, and tuition. Book a tour to see the school for yourself.