For families with young children, finding the right learning environment is an important step. With so many schools, programs, and educational approaches, the search can feel overwhelming. Understanding what makes each preschool unique can help. We interviewed a Montessori school, a standalone preschool, and a school-extended preschool to learn what children experience within each type of program, at these specific centers.
Montessori: Cathedral Montessori
How would you describe your educational philosophy for preschool-aged children?
Our educational philosophy is one of commitment to honoring the uniqueness of each child. Our classrooms foster a love of learning and independent thinking as students explore personal interests and engage in self-directed projects. The Montessori environment offers students a wide variety of materials and activities that emphasize concentration, problem-solving, and self motivation—skills necessary for future success in education and life.
What should parents know about your teachers and classroom environment?
Our educators encourage children to share their experiences with peers, parents, and adults. We guide them to interact and collaborate with respect, kindness and courtesy, and to consider the impact of their work and actions on other’s well-being. Our classroom environment is an active community in which children learn by doing, by watching others, and by sharing ideas. “Teachers” are not the center of the classroom, and actually, are not “teachers” but guides to scaffold the children’s learning.
How do you support children with different learning styles or developmental needs?
Each child is unique and that is one of the beautiful gifts of a Montessori education. Each child is met where they are in their learning and supported by their teachers, the materials, and their peers, to realize their highest potential while developing a love of learning and respect for self, others, and the global community. The Montessori method can support different learning styles, and developmental needs, because it is a hands-on approach, which also encompasses auditory and visual learning. Learning is not limited to the traditional classroom. Children are given a great deal of freedom, within limits, in the classroom where they can move freely, choose works, build independence, and become autonomous problem solvers.
If you could describe your school in three words, what would they be?
Respectful. Inclusive. Inspiring.
School-Extended: Academy of the Sacred Heart
What does a typical day look like for a child in your program?
A typical day at Little Hearts begins with outdoor activities or “free choice” in the classroom. This allows children to transition into the school day in a relaxed, non-structured way while being greeted by their teachers and classmates.
Throughout the day, students attend two sessions with our talented enrichment teachers, share a healthy snack with their peers, and engage in meaningful conversations during Circle Time. During Center Time, children work in small groups with teachers and engage in independent play to build social, fine motor, and problem-solving skills. We firmly believe that when children are playing, they are learning!
How would you describe your educational philosophy for preschool-age children?
The philosophy of the Little Hearts program at Academy of the Sacred Heart centers on providing a high-quality educational and recreational program that respects each family’s culture and values. It offers a balanced approach to learning, blending the rich traditions of Sacred Heart with the developmental standards of each age group.
The primary goals of the Little Hearts program are to:
- Help each child grow in all areas: social, emotional, cognitive, physical, and spiritual
- Enable each child to develop a positive self-concept and an optimistic attitude towards learning.
- Inspire a lifelong love for learning in an atmosphere that encourages curiosity and promotes positive self-esteem.
- Promote a sense of love, well-being, and security in every young student.
The program emphasizes a hands-on, child-centered early education in a caring, nurturing, and loving environment, recognizing that the early years are crucial for learning and discovery.
Are there any yearly events that families and children look forward to?
Every year, Little Hearts hosts a Family Thanksgiving Feast for our students and their parents. This catered event offers a wonderful opportunity for parents to enjoy a special lunch with their children. It is a highlight of our year, allowing families to mingle with faculty and staff while sharing a meal and building relationships.
If you could describe your school in three words, what would they be?
Welcoming. Tradition. Community.
Standalone: Beary Cherry Tree
What does a typical day look like for a child in your program?
Our days are designed around intentional interactions and developmentally appropriate exploration. Children arrive to warm greetings from teachers they’ve built deep relationships with—many of our teachers have been here for over a decade. We balance structured learning times with child-led exploration, outdoor play, and plenty of opportunities for social-emotional development. Our low teacher-child ratios (1:4 for infants, 1:5 for toddlers, and 1:10 for pre-K) mean every child receives individualized attention throughout the day. You’ll see children engaged in hands-on activities, collaborative play, and meaningful conversations with teachers who truly know them.
How would you describe your educational philosophy for preschool-age children?
We believe that interactions matter most. Research consistently shows that the quality of teacher-child interactions is the key factor driving children’s academic and lifelong success. Our approach centers on creating socially, emotionally, and academically appropriate environments where children can explore, learn, and play. Education has always been our priority—we focus on developing social skills, active listening, and a genuine love of learning. We want children to feel safe, confident, and ready to take on new challenges, all while being their authentic selves.
How do you support children with different learning styles or developmental needs?
Our low ratios allow teachers to truly individualize their approach for each child. We recognize that every child develops at their own pace and has unique strengths and interests. Our experienced teachers adapt activities, provide additional support when needed, and celebrate each child’s progress. We encourage children to use their imagination, high energy, and natural curiosity in ways that work for them. When additional support is beneficial, we work closely with families and coordinate with specialists to ensure every child has what they need to thrive.
How do you help children prepare for the transition to kindergarten?
Kindergarten readiness is built into everything we do and our Tier 1 Curriculum is practiced throughout our center. Our teachers specifically focus on social-emotional skills, self-help abilities, and academic foundations. We emphasize independence, following multi-step directions, problem-solving with peers, and building confidence as learners. Parents consistently share that their children enter kindergarten—and beyond—truly prepared. We’ve heard from countless families that the foundation we build here serves their children well into elementary school. We’re preparing children not just for kindergarten, but for lifelong success.
If you could describe your child care center in three words, what would they be?
Relationship-driven. Intentional. Trustworthy.