Leaders of Early Childhood Development in Overland Park!

small beginnings is a modified Montessori School that is based on a tradition of excellence spanning more than 30 years. Our programs educate children beginning at age 6 weeks and also includes a private, accredited Kindergarten through Second Grade. This family owned and operated school seeks to embody those ideals and qualities which will promote a happy and successful child.

Philosophy

At small beginnings, children are treated with respect and kindness. We believe in the Montessori principle that children should be exposed to hands-on activities throughout the day. Learning starts with that first small step, taken with confidence and pride. Along the way, our children are instilled with social graces, discipline, and respect for themselves and their environment. These disciplines best foster the development of the skills fundamental to all learning.

Modified Montessori

Montessori is a teaching method that is recognized world-wide. It was developed in Italy in the early 1900’s by Dr. Maria Montessori. It’s basic premise is that children work best in a multiple-age classroom with the power of choice. With this power of choice comes responsibility.

Our Montessori program incorporates multi-age classrooms with several learning centers throughout the room. Each room has areas for math, science, language, computers, art, cultural studies, sensorial development, and practical life. We believe that this approach allows for each individual child to work at his own level, whether it is quite simple or very complex.

At small beginnings, we encourage children to work within any area they choose; however, the choices are controlled choices. Throughout a class period, a child may have experienced several learning centers or immersed himself in only one area for the day. The joy of learning is established because the child is in a stimulating environment in which he can learn to take responsibility.