Countryside Day Blog

From Thought to Expression

From Thought to Expression

April 20th, 2026
One of the great privileges of spending time in a Montessori 3 - Kindergarten classroom is being reminded of how capable young children truly are.   At this age, children are full of ideas. Their thinking is expansive, imaginative, and often surprisingly complex. What they don’t yet have are the physical skills—handwriting, spelling, endurance—to always show that thinking in conventional ways. Our job as educators is not to limit their ideas until the... READ MORE
A Time to Shine!

A Time to Shine!

April 20th, 2026
Elementary Lesson Week is a special occasion where our 1st through 6th-grade students have the opportunity to showcase what they have been learning in their Montessori environment. During this week, students prepare to share a lesson or activity they’ve mastered with their parents in the comfort of their own classroom.   This event allows students to take the lead in their learning, fostering a sense of responsibility and pride in their accomplishments. It’s... READ MORE
Are We Missing an Important Window in Toilet Learning?

Are We Missing an Important Window in Toilet Learning?

April 6th, 2026
Many parents today are waiting well past the time children are developmentally ready to begin toilet learning — and in doing so, they often make what could be a natural, empowering milestone feel like a battle. In Montessori philosophy, toilet learning isn’t about forcing a child to “get it right” on Mom or Dad’s schedule — it’s about supporting them when their body and interest align.   Children often begin to show interest... READ MORE
Why Teaching Kids to Write Thank-You Notes Still Matters

Why Teaching Kids to Write Thank-You Notes Still Matters

April 6th, 2026
In today’s digital age, where quick texts and emails dominate communication, teaching children to write thank-you notes may seem outdated. However, there are several compelling reasons why this practice remains valuable.   First, thank-you notes help children develop gratitude. By taking the time to acknowledge gifts or kindnesses, they learn to appreciate others and reflect on the positive impacts in their lives. This fosters emotional intelligence and strengthens their social skills.   ... READ MORE

Countryside Programs

We offer a continuous program from 16 months through 6th grade — inculding an all year program option for Pre-K/K and elementary school. LEARN MORE

TODDLER — Ages 16 mos.-3yrs

PRE-K/K — Ages 3-6

LOWER ELEMENTARY — Ages 6-9, Grades 1-3

UPPER ELEMENTARY — Ages 9-12, Grades 4-6

SUMMER PROGRAMS — Ages 16 mos.-12 yrs., Toddler-Grade 6

ALL YEAR FULL DAY — Ages 3-12, Grades Pre-K/K-Grade 6