Who is Maria Montessori?
Maria Montessori was born in 1870 into an upper-class Italian family. In her youth she was a very determined young women who was admitted into an all-male medical school, but also became the first woman in Italy to become a physician. Her real passion was in humanity which led her to her life's work in the education of children. It was this work that, at the time of her death in 1952. left her one of the most honored and respected educators in the world.
Montessori's goal is to prepare a child for real life rather that just for school. The Montessori Method is based on three interdependent components; the child, the teacher, and the prepared environment.
Do you allow for art and imaginative play?
Art and imaginative play are an essential part of a child's growth and development. Play helps a child learn to express themselves in both the spoken language and with imagination. Pretend play helps a child differentiate between real and pretend.
Is your facility licensed?
Yes! Both of our buildings are licensed through the
Community Care Licensing division of the California
Department of Social Services.
Why is a licensed pre-school important?
Community Care Licensing is a division of the California Department of Social Services. This department set the regulations, requirements and guidelines for all licensed childcare providers. Our license assures parents that we are in compliance with all of the applicable rules and regulations.
Do I have to give notice if I want to withdraw my child?
Yes, 2 weeks written notice is required to withdraw your child. We require this because of the expenses that we incur due to our full expectation that your child will continue in our program.
Can I make up days?
We do not offer make up days. Once your child is enrolled, we have reserved that spot in our ratio. We have staffed our school according to their attendance even if your child is not able to attend. We ask that you choose your schedule carefully so your child's schedule will maximize his/her experience here.
Is the cost of tuition tax deductible?
You may be eligible for tax benefits to help pay for your child's education by reducing the income taxes you pay. For specific guidance, please contact a tax professional.
Will you prorate my tuition if I am enrolling my child midyear or mid month?
Yes. We are happy to prorate your tuition if you are joining us midyear or mid month.
Does my child have to be toilet trained?
If your child will be enrolled in the 2-3.5 year old program they do not need to be potty trained. If your child is still in diapers, we ask that you bring your brand of diapers. Please do not bring pull-ups, as they inhibit toilet training and cleanliness.
If your child will be enrolled in the 3.5-5 year old program they need to be completely potty trained. We will encourage and remind children to use the restroom throughout the day.
To find out more please call us at 209-722-9823
What is your discipline procedure?
Concern for others and forgiveness is a large part of our discipline policy. We believe that discipline should be approached positively with fairness, firmness and consistency. There are only a few simple rules we expect children to follow.
1. We listen to each other.
2. Hands are for helping not hurting.
3. We use I-Care language.
4. We care about each other's feelings.
5. We are responsible for what we say and do.
What is the check-in procedure for my child?
It is required by Community Care Licensing that your sign your child in to school using your full signature. Sign in sheets are located by the front entrances of both schools for your convenience. Teachers will be there to greet you. They will assist you, if necessary, as you say a quick good-bye to your child. Please update us with any information we might need while your child is with us for the day, such as toilet training, health concerns, etc.
What is the pick up procedure for my child?
Children, depending on their schedule, may be picked up at 12:30 or between 3:00 and 5:30. Parents picking their children picked up after 5:30 will be charged a late fee this fee is to be paid directly to the teacher who needed to stay after hours to be with your child.
Can my child take a nap if needed?
Yes. Nap time is included in the day for the "Little School" and it is an option for your child if he/she attends the big school.
What is your illness policy?
All children get sick at one time or another. We ask that you please call us if your child will be absent due to an illness, in order to safeguard the health and welfare of his/her classmates. If you feel that your child is to sick to go outside and play with his/her friends then it is best that they stay home.
The Community Care Licensing agency has set forth guidelines concerning illnesses and diseases that we must adhere by they include the following:
1. Any child have a temperature of 99 degrees Fahrenheit or higher will not be allowed to attend school. The child may not return to school until the fever has been absent for 24 hours.
2. If your child is experiencing vomiting or diarrhea they may not attend school until symptoms are not present for 24 hours.
3. A child who becomes ill and needs an antibiotic will not be allowed back to school for 24 hours from the time the antibiotic has first been administered.
4. If your child is diagnosed with pink eye he/she will not be allowed back in school for 24 hours after the first treatment begins or until the eyes are no longer goopy or weepy.
If your child becomes ill at school a staff member will notify you or someone on your emergency contact list to come and pick up your child.
Can you give medication to children if needed?
Yes. The staff will be happy to administer medication to your child if the need arises. The following steps are necessary for and all medication.
1. The medication must be in the original container.
2. A permission form must be completely filled out.
3. Medication must be given directly to a staff member do not put medication in cubby boxes or lunches.
During the time that my daughter has attended Merced Montessori School she has blossomed into a very independent, social, self confident and inquisitive child. She wholeheartedly loves her school, her teachers and her friends. I always feel confident in knowing I am leaving my child in a safe and stimulating environment. Thank you to the fantastic team of educators for instilling a foundation for learning that will carry my daughter forward in her ongoing education.
--S.O.