The Infant Program

A Montessori infant program is designed to meet the needs of the infant during
the important sensory motor period of development. Infancy is a periods of rapid
change physically, emotionally, socially, cognitively and neurologically.
Therefore, it is important that the environment for the child be physically safe,
cognitively challenging and emotionally nurturing.
Of primary importance are freedom of movement, development of tactile and visual
senses and the development of cause and effect relationships. Infants will be allowed
to experience their bodies through movement and carefully monitored exploration of
their environment in a respectful, peaceful atmosphere. Infant teachers allow children
to do what they are ready and willing to do. They reinforce their self-initiated
activities by paying full attention, while being quietly available.
Goals for Discovery's Infant Program
· Provide a phasing-in process, which supports the bond between the parents and the 
  child. To assist parents and infants in the separation process.
· To encourage, through daily communication with parents, a spirit of co-nurturing
  between Montessori educators and parents.
· To support parents in their parenting role through organized gatherings covering
  a variety of topics of interest to parents.
· To observe children in order to "follow the child".
· To provide an environment which models respect, gentleness and caring.
· To provide a safe and stimulating environment for the developing infant, one which
  they can explore with safety and freedom.
· To provide an environment which meets the infant's sensitive periods for language,
  movement, and order.