FAQS
What is the student to adult ratio in each classroom?
Toddler Program: Student-to-adult ratio is 5:1 Primary Program: Student-to-adult ratio is 7:1 Kindergarten: Student-to-adult ratio is 9:1
Read MoreWhat are the age groups for classes?
In keeping with the Montessori teaching approach, all our classrooms are mixed ages. Toddler Program: 18 to 36 months Primary Program: 3 to 5 years old Kindergarten: 5-6 years old
Read MoreDoes ThistleWaithe offer full-day or half-day programs?
For our Toddler Program (only offered at South Salem) you may enroll your child for the following half-day morning options from 9 am – 12 pm: Two half-day mornings (Tuesday and Thursday) Three half-day mornings (Monday, Wednesday, and Friday) Five half-day mornings You may add on full-day options within a two, three, four, or five-day schedule,…
Read MoreHow will ThistleWaithe’s Montessori-style classroom prepare my child for elementary school?
A Montessori education develops capable, accountable, knowledgeable students with a strong sense of self that allows them to thrive in the world. We promote good study habits, teach children to take the initiative, and inspire curiosity and flexibility in their thinking, including making mistakes. They learn to love and love to learn!
Read MoreWhat is ThistleWaithe’s approach to conflict resolution?
We handle conflict issues like any other aspect of the curriculum – individually or in a group. Never will a conflict situation between children be deemed insignificant or neglected on the part of the teacher. At no time will the child be isolated or humiliated. We’ll redirect toddlers to another activity. Bringing understanding, closure, and…
Read MoreHow will I be informed of my child’s progress?
Parents are kept apprised of their children’s progress with a brief phone call at the end of September, Parent/Teacher meetings in autumn and spring, and a written report at the end of the school year.
Read MoreDo you provide snacks or lunch for my child?
We send the snack basket home with each child/family weekly to provide snacks for the classroom. Full-day children are required to bring their lunch.
Read MoreDoes my child need to be toilet-trained before attending ThistleWaithe?
Students entering our Primary program are required to be toilet trained. Toddler teachers are happy to support your child’s toilet training process with you.
Read MoreAre there any enrichment offerings?
Our Primary and Kindergarten classrooms enjoy Chinese, Spanish, and music lessons. Our Kindergarten program also incorporates chess lessons into their classroom.
Read MoreWhat will my child learn in the classroom?
ThistleWaithe practices the Montessori philosophy and helps children develop independence, empathy, and a lifelong love of learning. Independence is accomplished through teaching children to do for themselves. Creative thinking and problem-solving are integral to play, and children are actively engaged in their learning process. Social and emotional skills are developed in a caring and nurturing…
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