What is the Montessori method?
The Montessori method, developed by Maria Montessori, is a child-centered approach that encourages independence, hands-on learning, and respect for each child’s natural development. This method offers a systematic approach, calm, responsible behavior, a love for work with learning materials and freedom and spontaneity.
What ages do you serve?
We serve children from 15 months through 5 years old, including toddlers and primary (preschool) students.
What makes your Montessori daycare different from traditional daycare?
Our classrooms are carefully prepared environments where children learn through hands-on materials, self-directed activity, and mixed-age collaboration. Teachers guide rather than direct, fostering independence and confidence. In our school children develop the skills of lifelong learning and they take pride in doing things for themselves.
Are your teachers Montessori trained?
Yes, the lead teachers of each class are Montessori certified are fully qualified to implement the Montessori philosophy and curriculum in their classrooms.
What does a typical day look like?
Children experience uninterrupted work cycles (individual and small group work), outdoor play, practical life activities, language, math, sensorial exploration, and cultural studies.
Do children follow a structured curriculum?
Children experience uninterrupted work cycles (individual and small group work), outdoor play, practical life activities, language, math, sensorial exploration, and cultural studies.
Do children follow a structured curriculum?
Yes. While children have freedom of choice within the classroom, lessons are carefully presented according to Montessori scope and sequence. All the materials are rotated and changed every other week.
How do you support kindergarten readiness?
Our Primary program builds strong foundations in literacy, math, concentration, independence, and social-emotional skills to prepare children confidently for elementary school.
How do you handle social-emotional development?
Grace and courtesy lessons, conflict resolution guidance, and mixed-age classrooms help children develop empathy, communication skills, and self-regulation.
Do you help with potty training?
Yes. We partner closely with families to support toilet learning in a respectful and developmentally appropriate way.
How do you communicate with parents?
We provide daily updates through the Procare app,twice a year parent teacher conferences, and open communication to ensure families feel informed and supported.
What are your hours of operation?
We are open form Monday to Friday, 7:00am-5:30pm.
Do you offer full-time and part-time options?
In our school we offer full time program (5days per week),and part time program (3 or 2 days per week).
Are you licensed?
Yes, we are licensed by the State of Illinois and meet all required health and safety standards.
Do you provide meals and snacks?
We do provide 3 meals at ALC. Morning snack, which is a full breakfast, lunch handled from the Unlimited delicious Company and afternoon snack.