Scene from elementary play.

Stepping Stones

The Stepping Stones program is for children ages two to three and is designed to give each child a positive first school experience and to expand his world beyond the home. The materials and activities in the classroom satisfy the children's natural curiosity, sense of order, and desire for independence as they learn and explore through their senses. The children are given freedom of choice and movement in a safe and nurturing environment within clearly defined limits. They are also given the opportunity to interact with other children and to develop and practice their language skills.

Daily Routine

Work Time

The children start the day by independently choosing activities from different areas of the classroom: practical life, sensorial, math, language, manipulative exercises and art. Here the children work independently and with guidance from two qualified Montessori teachers for approximately an hour.

Circle Time

During this time the children learn to interact and participate as part of a community. Through music, movement, stories, food tasting and language enrichment activities, the children build concentration, self-control and positive social skills.

Snack Time

The Albrook School provides snack for the children. The teachers and children sit down together as a group for snack. Healthy foods, social interactions and good table manners are the emphasis at this favorite time of the day.

Outside Play

The toddler program has a new state of the art, age appropriate playground connected to the classrooms. It consists of a climbing structure and tunnel designed for gross motor development, a sand table and a selection of cars and push and pull toys.

Six Hour Stepping Stones (Extended Day)

In the mornings, the children will attend our three hour toddler program. The morning class is followed by lunch and recess. Then, depending on the needs of the child, there is an opportunity to rest or nap. Those children who do not require a nap will spend the afternoon in an enrichment program. In order to be eligible for this extended day program, children must be completely toilet trained.

Special Events

Orientation

This is an introductory meeting between parents and teachers to introduce parents to the procedures before they bring their child to school the following week. This meeting lasts approximately 30 minutes.

Back to School Night

This night begins in Albers Hall where parents will be greeted by the Director, Ms. Albers and introduced to the Albrook staff. Parents then return to their children's classroom where they are further oriented by their children's teachers in the procedures and events of the coming year.

Fall Harvest

This family event has activities that include face painting, jewelry making, games and good food. Come and meet other families from Albrook in a relaxed, fun atmosphere.

Parent Day

This is an opportunity for one parent to come into the classroom and work with his/her child for a forty-five minute period. This is a wonderful opportunity to see what activities the child enjoys and works with in school.

Holiday Breakfast

Bring family and friends to eat a pancake breakfast with the Albrook community. Special guests include a magician.

International Day

This is a school event where all the children gather to celebrate the cultures of the world through song and dance.

Grandparents' Week

Grandparents are invited to come in to the classroom and spend an hour with their grandchild. Children have an opportunity to share their activities and friends with their grandparents.

Train Ride and Picnic

The children take a short train ride and then attend story time at the Bernards Township library and a picnic at Harry Dunham Park.

 

Children working with materials

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Children engaged in Montessori works.