Everything you’re wondering, answered
Choosing a school for your child is a big decision, and good questions deserve honest answers. Here are the ones we hear most from parents. If yours isn’t here, call us at (619) 442-2552 and we’ll be glad to talk.
About Montessori
New to Montessori? You’re not alone. Most families come to us curious but unsure what it all means. Here’s the short version.
What is Montessori, in plain terms?
Montessori is a way of teaching built around how young children actually learn: by doing. Instead of sitting through lessons as a group, each child works hands-on with carefully designed materials, at their own pace, guided by a trained teacher. The result is a child who learns to concentrate, solve problems, and take real pride in their own work.
How is Montessori different from a regular preschool or daycare?
The biggest difference is who leads the learning. In a traditional preschool, the teacher decides what the whole class does and when. In a Montessori classroom, children choose their work from a prepared set of activities, and the teacher observes and guides each child individually. Our materials teach real skills, from pouring and buttoning to reading and math.
Why are the classrooms mixed ages?
Children learn an enormous amount from each other. In a mixed-age classroom, younger children watch and learn from older ones, and older children build confidence by helping and leading. It works a lot like a family, and it’s one of the things parents end up loving most.
Is Montessori too unstructured? Do kids just do whatever they want?
This is the most common misconception we hear. Montessori classrooms are actually very structured. The freedom children have is freedom within clear limits: they choose from purposeful activities, they learn to finish what they start, and they return each material to its place, ready for the next child. What looks like play is focused, meaningful work.
Will my child be prepared for kindergarten?
Yes, and usually then some. Montessori children typically enter kindergarten with strong early reading and math skills, but just as importantly, they arrive knowing how to focus, follow through on a task, and get along with others. Teachers notice the difference.
Do you follow the real Montessori method or just use the name?
It’s a fair question, because the name isn’t trademarked and plenty of schools use it loosely. We’ve been practicing authentic Montessori since 1984, with genuine Montessori materials, a true work cycle, and teachers trained in the method. Come visit and watch a morning in action. The classroom speaks for itself.
Enrollment and admissions
Ready to take the next step, or just exploring? Either way, here’s how it works.
What ages do you accept?
We welcome children ages 2 through 6. Many families join us when their child is 2 and stay all the way through kindergarten readiness.
Do you enroll year-round or only in the fall?
We enroll year-round, whenever space allows. Children can join the classroom at any point in the year, and our mixed-age community makes it easy for a new child to settle in. If your preferred schedule is full, we’ll add you to our waitlist and call you the moment a spot opens.
How do I apply?
Two easy ways: Contact us by email email, or call us at (619) 442-2552 and we’ll walk you through it. The next step is always a visit, so you and your child can see the classroom for yourselves.
Can we tour the school before deciding?
Please do. We’d much rather you see MAC in person than take our word for it. Call us to set up a time, and bring your child along. Watching how they respond to the classroom often answers more questions than we ever could.
How much is tuition?
You can find current rates and schedules on our tuition page. We keep it simple: one monthly rate per schedule, everything included, no surprise fees. Sibling discounts are available too.
Does my child need to be potty trained to start?
No. Give us a call and we’ll talk through where your child is at. Independence is at the heart of Montessori, and toilet learning is something we support as a normal part of practical life.
A day at MAC
What your child’s day actually looks like, and the practical details every parent wants to know.
What does a typical day look like?
The heart of the morning is the work cycle, a long stretch of uninterrupted time where children choose and complete their activities. Around it, the day flows through circle time, snack, outdoor play, art, and music. It’s a calm, predictable rhythm, and children thrive on it.
What are your hours?
Our full day runs Monday through Friday, 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with extended care included. Half day and 3-day schedules are also available. See our tuition page for all the options.
Do you provide meals and snacks?
We provide a morning and afternoon snack each day. Families pack a lunch for full-day children. If your child has allergies or dietary needs, tell us and we’ll work with you to keep them safe and included.
How big are your classes?
Small, on purpose. MAC is a small, home-like school where every teacher knows every child well. That closeness is a big part of why families stay with us for years and often send younger siblings too. Our teacher to child ratio is 1:12
Do the children go outside every day?
Yes, weather permitting, which in East County is most days. Outdoor play, movement, and time in nature are part of the daily rhythm, not a special treat.
How will I know how my child is doing?
You’ll hear from us regularly, not just when something’s wrong. We share updates on your child’s progress and hold parent conferences during the year. And our door is always open. If you ever have a question, just ask at pickup or give us a call.
My child has never been away from me. How do you handle the transition?
Gently, and at your child’s pace. First days can come with some tears, and that’s completely normal. Our small classroom and consistent teachers help new children feel safe quickly, and we’ll keep you posted so you’re not left wondering in the parking lot. Most children settle in within a week or two.
Still have questions?
No question is too small when it’s about your child. Give us a call, or come see the classroom for yourself. We’d love to meet your family.
We’re here Monday through Friday during school hours, and happy to talk anytime.