Spring is a time of transition. As new life, bright colors and warm weather start to emerge, you may begin to think about an important transition for your child - the move to the Primary (3-6) Program. Although change can be scary and overwhelming, it is important to remember the many skills and qualities that your child has developed in the toddler program that will help him or her to make a smooth transition.  

 

As a 2.5- to 3-year-old in a Pre-Primary (toddler) environment, there are opportunities to guide and lead the younger children. The older toddler also acts as a model for appropriate behavior, transitioning through the routine and careful handling of materials. These moments develop confidence and a self-assurance that will help them to explore a new classroom environment and make new social connections. 

 

Another factor that helps a toddler transition to the 3-6 Program is the cohesiveness in curriculum. There is an overlap in materials between the two levels, which helps the child find familiarity in a new environment. Along with familiar materials, the classrooms are set up in a similar fashion with the same curricular areas. Although the shelves have more materials, the areas will be familiar to the transitioning 3-year-old. The child will be able to transfer objects in Practical Life, manipulate knobbed cylinders in the Sensorial area, and count and sort items in the Math area, just as they could at the Pre-Primary level. 

 

The teachers at both levels work closely together to provide a smooth transition for each child. We look at the range of ages as well as at the breakdown of boys and girls within each group all to determine where children will be best placed. We also talk to the children about the transition and visit the Primary classrooms for short periods of time in the spring.   

 

This exciting transition can bring lots of questions, as will the transitions your child will experience during his or her later years at WMS. Whether your child is moving into the Primary Program or the 9-12 Program, we encourage you to talk with your teacher about your child's move to the next level and how to work as a team to prepare for the transition. Support from parents and teachers combined with the strong foundation that your child has gained in his or her current program will help provide a smooth passage to the next level of his or her Montessori education.