Frequently Asked Questions

The Montessori method is a child-centered approach to learning developed by Maria Montessori. Instead of one-size-fits-all instruction, children learn through hands-on experiences, independent exploration, and personalized guidance from trained teachers. At Coconut Grove Montessori School, classrooms are designed to encourage independence, curiosity, concentration, and confidence.

Coconut Grove Montessori School offers programs for children from 18 months through 5th grade, including:

Toddlers’ House: 18 months – 3 years

Children’s House: Ages 3 – 6

Elementary Program: Grades 1 – 5

Each program is designed around developmental stages and Montessori learning principles.

Yes. Coconut Grove Montessori School offers bilingual classroom options including:

• English/Spanish
• English/French
• Exclusively English

Students also receive additional world language instruction, including Mandarin Chinese and French options in certain programs. The school uses immersive language learning techniques to help children naturally develop multilingual communication skills.

Montessori education focuses on independence, hands-on learning, and self-paced academic growth rather than memorization and standardized instruction. Montessori classrooms are typically mixed-age environments where children learn collaboratively and develop leadership skills naturally.

Traditional schools often rely on teacher-led instruction, while Montessori students actively choose lessons and activities within a carefully prepared learning environment.

Yes, Coconut Grove Montessori School teachers are Montessori-trained and credentialed through recognized Montessori organizations, such as the American Montessori Society. Lead teachers also hold bachelor’s degrees and are supported by classroom assistants.

Yes, Coconut Grove Montessori School is accredited by the National Early Childhood Program and affiliated with the American Montessori Society.

Mixed-age classrooms are a core part of authentic Montessori education. Younger students learn by observing older children, while older students build leadership and mentorship skills by helping younger classmates. This structure encourages collaboration, patience, confidence, and social development.

Yes, Montessori students develop strong academic foundations along with executive functioning skills like independence, focus, problem-solving, time management, and critical thinking. Coconut Grove Montessori School’s Elementary program includes language arts, math, science, geography, robotics, cultural studies, and technology integration.

Depending on the age group, students may participate in:

• Robotics
• Yoga
• Art
• Music
• Library
• Physical Education
• World Language Instruction

These enrichment activities are integrated into the curriculum to support the whole child academically, socially, emotionally, and physically.

Yes, Coconut Grove Montessori School offers after-school care for families needing extended care options, until 5:30 p.m.

Yes, Coconut Grove Montessori School offers after-school enrichment programs such as Ballet, Cooking, Gardening, Crochet, Science, Club, Art, Jazz, Piano, Tennis, Soccer, Sports, Spanish Club, for families looking for enriching extended care options.

Applying to Coconut Grove Montessori School typically begins with scheduling a school tour and submitting an admissions application. The admissions process is designed to help families learn about the Montessori approach while ensuring the school is the right fit for each child’s educational journey.

The admissions process may include:

• School tour or parent meeting
• Completed application form
• Student classroom visit or readiness assessment
• Enrollment meeting with the admissions team
• Submission of required enrollment documents

Families are generally asked to provide documents such as:

• Birth certificate or passport
• Immunization and health records
• Emergency contact forms
• Previous school records or report cards (if applicable)
• Completed enrollment paperwork

Coconut Grove Montessori School welcomes children from toddler through elementary programs and offers bilingual Montessori education options in a nurturing, child-centered environment.

A Montessori classroom is designed to feel calm, organized, and child-centered, with hands-on learning materials placed on accessible shelves so children can independently choose activities and explore at their own pace.

Unlike traditional classrooms with rows of desks, Montessori classrooms typically include:

• Mixed-age learning groups
• Child-sized furniture and materials
• Hands-on Montessori learning tools
• Reading, math, science, art, and practical life areas
• Quiet spaces for independent work
• Collaborative learning environments

Teachers act as guides rather than standing at the front of the room giving constant lectures. Students move throughout the classroom, work independently or in small groups, and build confidence through self-directed learning.

At Coconut Grove Montessori School, classrooms are intentionally prepared to support independence, concentration, creativity, and a lifelong love of learning through authentic Montessori education.

Yes, certain programs offer half-day, full-day, and flexible attendance schedules depending on the child’s age and classroom availability.

Montessori works well for both. The environment allows children to move, explore, and learn at their own pace without the pressure to “keep up” with the entire class. In addition, children able to work more quickly are challenged at their pace. Many parents find Montessori especially beneficial for children who thrive with hands-on learning, independence, or individualized attention.

Students are introduced to technology in grade 4. Coconut Grove Montessori School’s Upper Elementary students integrate technology and iPads into research, writing, and classroom learning while still maintaining a strong focus on hands-on education and real-world experiences. 

Montessori teachers continuously observe student growth through daily lessons, skill mastery, independence, classroom participation, and individualized academic progress. Elementary students at Coconut Grove Montessori School also participate in standardized testing, Stanford Achievement Test, annually.

Families often choose Coconut Grove Montessori School for its:

• Authentic Montessori approach
• Small classroom environments
• Bilingual education options
• Individualized learning
• Experienced Montessori-certified teachers
• Strong academic foundation
• Enrichment opportunities
• Focus on independence and confidence
• Established in 1998, Coconut Grove Montessori School has been serving families for generations and has a historic record of excellence in education

The school blends academic excellence with a nurturing, globally minded learning environment for children in the Coconut Grove and Miami area. 

Many families choose Montessori because it supports both academic achievement and personal growth. Research and parent experiences often highlight improvements in independence, confidence, concentration, communication skills, and long-term love of learning.