Lower Elementary
6-9 years
Lower Elementary Program
While children from birth to age six focus on gathering facts, those in the second plane of development—from six to twelve—seek to understand why, how, and when. These elementary years are a time for cosmic education, exploring the interconnections of nature, society, and the universe. Children are eager to discover reasons, dive into details, explore moral questions, and form meaningful relationships. The elementary program builds on the foundations laid in the primary level, allowing students to study subjects in increasing depth each year. Dr. Montessori described this stage as an “inclined spiral” of integrated studies, a thematic approach that connects disciplines to explore the physical universe, the natural world, and the human experience.
At Providence, children ages six to nine enroll in one of our three lower elementary classrooms. Small class sizes with two teachers create a supportive environment where students thrive. Each classroom is a multi-age community, composed of first-, second-, and third-year students. Providence aims to maintain a balanced mix of ages and genders to foster a collaborative and inclusive atmosphere.
Because this is such a social and formative time, students have many opportunities to practice sharing, helping others, problem-solving, leadership, and conflict-resolution skills. Each class collaboratively develops its own set of rules for maintaining a peaceful learning environment, and students take personal responsibility for following them.
Curriculum Highlights
Children use work lists to guide and organize their day, balancing individual lessons, group activities, and independent or cooperative work. Specialized materials and curriculum support learning in language, mathematics, science, geography, history, and the fine arts. In addition, students enjoy weekly lessons in art, library, music, physical education, and Spanish. Practical life skills are also an important part of the day, with opportunities for children to prepare snacks, set up and clean up after lunch, care for the classroom, and explore activities such as sewing, embroidery, and gardening.
The elementary program offers a full-day of classes from 8:15 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
We absolutely love Providence. The teachers and staff execute the Montessori philosophy with the highest expertise and provide an incredibly thoughtful environment that fosters kindness, learning and confidence. Highly recommend!
- Sara H.
We LOVE this school! The teachers are so kind & supportive. My 2yo is thriving in the Montessori environment. She started toilet training one month after starting classes here – at only 25 months old. Her vocabulary and language comprehension are also off the charts & I give most of the credit to this school. Just can’t say enough good things!
- Shevawn A.
Providence is an amazing Montessori school, our children are cared and loved by each and every staff member. It is remarkable to watch your child grow while receiving a Montessori education.
