Daily Life
A Further Look Into The Daily Schedule at Sr. Thea Bowman Montessori School.
Work Cycle:
The work cycle is a three-hour block of uninterrupted time in a Montessori prepared environment, where children choose their own activities and work independently with materials designed to foster specific skills. Children are free to select activities from the prepared environment based on their interests and developmental needs. The uninterrupted time allows children to engage deeply with their chosen work, fostering concentration and sustained attention. Children work at their own pace, explore materials at their own rhythm, and learn to solve problems independently.
We provide a snack for the children to enjoy during the morning work cycle. We serve healthy snacks to ensure the nutritional growth and development of each child. We prepare snacks using only allergen-free ingredients. Children may bring a snack from home if desired.
Activities include practical life exercises, such as washing dishes or cleaning windows. The work cycle also supports academic learning in areas like language and mathematics with all materials designed to introduce abstract concepts in a concrete and hands-on way. During this time, the Montessori teacher acts as a guide, observing children, presenting lessons, and providing support as needed.
Outside Play:
Outside play is an important part of the total curriculum. Students will go outside every day unless there is thunder and lightning, a heat advisory, or the temperature is below 32° F. Students should come to school prepared to go outside every day.
Lunch:
Students bring their lunch, including a fresh and full water bottle, to school. Nutritious foods in child-sized portions are the best way to keep your child fueled throughout the day and set them up for optimum learning.
Rest:
An afternoon rest is part of the full-day schedule for children under the age of 5. Naptime occurs after lunch. We provide the mat. Children should bring a sheet and blanket from home. Bedding will be sent home every other week.