“The greatest gifts we can give our children are the roots of responsibility and the wings of independence.”
– Dr. Montessori
The First Plane of Development: Building the Foundation for Life
The Montessori approach emphasizes how children develop through distinct phases, or “planes,” each with unique needs and opportunities for growth. The First Plane of Development, spanning from birth to age six, is a transformative period where children experience rapid physical, emotional, and cognitive growth.
This phrase perfectly captures the essence of the First Plane. Children in this stage are like sponges, absorbing everything from their environment. Dr. Montessori referred to this as the period of the “Absorbent Mind,” where children learn effortlessly through exploration and imitation.
Children thrive when provided with:
A Prepared Environment: Organized, beautiful spaces tailored to their size encourage exploration and self-reliance. Low shelves, child-sized furniture, and accessible tools foster autonomy.
St. Mary School recruits and admits students of any race, color, or ethnic origin to all its rights, privileges, programs, and activities. In addition, the school will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, or ethnic origin the administration of its educational programs and athletic/extracurricular activities. Furthermore, the school is not intended to be an alternative to court or administrative agency ordered, or public school district initiated desegregation.
Inspired by our Mother Mary, and rooted in our Catholic faith, the St. Mary community nurtures spiritual growth, academic excellence, a responsibility to self, and service to others.