When you have a special need child, choosing a Montessori school for him is a real daunting task. There are many factors you need to investigate because not all Montessori La Puente, CA will have those facilities. So, to help you out, here are some important questions you need to ask :

What is the environment of the classroom ?

For a child with special needs, especially those on the autism spectrum, the environment of the classroom as well as the materials are very important. As for the lightening of the room, it should be soft and natural, fluorescent lights often have an adverse effect on such children. The material around the classroom should be selected keeping in mind about children with sensory issues. Also, the room should also be secure as such children are prone to wander around and have accidents.

Is it an inclusive classroom ?

It has been documented that inclusive classroom for children with special needs at an early age (3+) can go a long way to help them in later school years. So, while looking for your childcare Walnut, CA, look for Montessori schools where special needs students study with regular students. Also, if the classroom is multi-age, then they can learn by observing older children and learn to socialize by helping younger children.

What is the curriculum ?

Every child learns in his or her own pace, and a good Montessori School allows that. This is especially important for children with special need especially those with reading and learning issues. So, the curriculum should be multi-sensory and hands-on. There should not be any tests or standardized evaluation for all the students, rather the focus should be on each child’s area of expertise. Trained teachers can easily notice where the child lacks and then tailor the curriculum to fit that. Trained teachers can also notice if the child is dyslexic and early intervention and remedial classes can help such a child very much in later school years.

What is the teacher-student ratio ?

Depending on the schoolroom size, there should be around 24 to 30 students per classroom with 1 adult for every 10 students. Also, for a Montessori La Puente, CA for your special need child, make sure that there is at least one special educator along with teachers trained in the Montessori method of teaching. Such a balance will make sure that the teachers are aware of each kid and paying them required attention. Also, if the classroom is multi-age, the teacher will be with the child for at least 3 years which means those on the spectrum won’t have to adjust to a new teacher every year. Such a child performs much better when the class environment is stable and same.

Montessori is the first time your precious child is going to be out of your home and be with strangers for a better part of the day. It can be overwhelming for normal students; and so, you can understand how much more daunting it is for children with special needs. So, make sure you choose your childcare Walnut, CA with much deliberation and research so that the Montessori experience is one of his or her best childhood memory.