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explore a typical day
Here’s what to expect at PCA
structured freedom
Safely growing independence
Children who are safe to explore and express their independence are more likely to develop confidence in themselves. We put tremendous thought and care into creating an environment where children are able to push their boundaries, learn new skills, and make choices on their own.
We do this consistently with the right amount of guidance and support to keep everyone safe.
Click to expand the sections below for a comprehensive look at a typical day at PCA
Arrival
A bright and joyful good morning, some big hugs, and sometimes some big feelings. These important and courageous moments lay the groundwork for learning independence.
Circle Time
After getting settled in, we sit in a circle, read books, sing songs, and learn language. This magical time of the morning lays a strong and consistent foundation for building concentration and emotional regulation.
Outdoor Time
We are so lucky to be within walking distance to multiple parks and activities. Here we focus on movement and gross motor skills, as well as learning to play together, and learn social skills.
Montessori Work Cycle
Our toddlers are given an abundance of options. They can choose to make art, learn about nature, or anything that captures their attention. This independent work prioritizes the development of concentration and motor skills.
Lunch
All food is made on premises with special attention to allergies and food sensitivities. The children often take part in the preparation, giving them a greater sense of ownership in the foods they eat.
Dismissal for Half-Day Students
Lunch clean-up / nap transition
Including everyone in the process of cleaning up is just one more way we teach independence and life skills are a critical point in their development.
Nap
Nap time is so important for Toddlers who are building their concentration and developing motor skills.
Wake up / Group Snack
After waking up from nap time, we have a snack together and continue to tend for our shared space.
Full day dismissal
Outdoor time
By late in the day, toddlers have exhausted most of their mental focus but are still bright and full of energy for play.
Aftercare / pick up
For working parents, we know how hard it can be to get out of work just in time to pick up the kids. That’s why we offer a generous extended aftercare pickup window.
Arrival
A bright and joyful good morning, some big hugs, and sometimes some big feelings. These important and courageous moments lay the groundwork for learning independence.
Morning Work Cycle
Students in the EC Class have virtually limitless options for their work cycles. We continue to build concentration skills and provide the opportunity to choose the work that calls to them. Here, you might find one student sewing, another preparing food, and another working on advanced Chinese or Math. We end the morning work cycle with a circle gathering to discuss important topics we want to learn or need to talk about as a community – because the classroom belongs to the children.
Lunch & clean-up
Our EC Students help keep the classroom clean and organized. These are skills we hope they bring home with them and we encourage you to include them in your own clean up.
Dismissal for Half-Day Students
outdoor time
After their morning work cycle, the EC Class children are ready to play. The shift from work to play helps students to emotionally regulate, socialize, and let the impact of their morning work cycle sink in.
montessori work cycle
After lunch, the EC Class will dive into another work cycle. This one is a little shorter than the morning session but still gives everyone a chance to choose work that calls to them. Our youngest students can choose to nap and our older students are either choosing to hone in on a newly acquired skill or getting more advance lessons from our teachers.
Full day dismissal
Outdoor time
The EC Class extends our outdoor time farther from the classroom. We’ve gone to Franklin Square, Chinatown, and even the Comcast Center.
Aftercare / pick up
For working parents, we know how hard it can be to get out of work just in time to pick up the kids. That’s why we offer a generous extended aftercare pickup window.