My name is Melissa Schwartz and I am a mother of three. I fell in love with the Montessori philosophy when my firstborn turned one. Since that time, I have become a certified Montessori guide and have had the dream of opening a Montessori Preschool to share this with the greater community. I have had a passion to work with children since I started babysitting at the age of 12. I continued during my university years and was a nanny for many families. I hold an Honours Bachelor of Arts degree, a Master of Arts degree, in French, as well as a Bachelor of Education.  Elementary School Teacher with a French specialty. I bring a wealth of knowledge, experience, and passion to our Montessori Community.

The Montessori method encourages independence, freedom within limits, and responsibility. It also allows for the child to grow independently. A 2006 study published in the “Journal of Science” concluded that Montessori students performed better than their standard public school counterparts in a variety of areas, including not only traditional academic areas but in social skills as well. The authors concluded that “Montessori education fosters social and academic skills that are equal or superior to those fostered by a pool of other types of schools.”

They have learned to work independently and in groups. Since they have been encouraged to make decisions from an early age, these children are problem-solvers who can make choices and manage their time well. They have also been encouraged to exchange ideas and to discuss their work freely with others. Research has shown that the best predictor of future success is a sense of self-esteem. Montessori programs help children develop good self-images and the confidence to face life’s challenges.