Berkeley, CA
Garden Day Montessori

Discipline

OVERALL RATING (4.7)

Parents at this school, on average, believe that conflicts between children:
...are handled extraordinarily well in a way that not only gives me confidence in the safety of my child but also reassures me that my child (and his/her peers) are learning the early skills needed to socialize effectively with one another

source:

Director's Description to School's Approach to Discipline

We try to model the behavior we want to see in our children. Through discussion and role-playing we practice empathy, respect, responsibility and self-discipline. Because we have a range of ages in the classroom, we have a range of expectations of our children.

Director's Response to a Sample Discipline Scenario

Description of how teachers handle the following scenario: Child A and Child B are good friends and usually play together. One day, Child A decides to play with Child C and tells Child B, 'I don't want to play with you today. I'm playing with Child C instead.'


The teacher would remind all three that everyone at Garden Day is friends. Then she might say to Child B, 'It's a good thing you have so many friends to choose from, let's go see what Child D is doing.'

Parents' Notes on Discipline, Health and Safety

Parent #1
Discipline depends on age (students range from 2.6 to 6 so a big range of expectations). Disruptive children during circle are gently separated and go with another teacher to another room; there is active communication about how to treat friends well, teachers are proactive if a conflict erupts or room is very noisy. Yard supervision is very active. Privileges may be revoked if child repeatedly does not obey rules (no playing that day with certain special toys or staying inside for part of recess).

Health

OVERALL RATING (4.8)
Temperature and overall air circulation is comfortable
Healthy and nutritious snacks are provided More >
Toys and furniture are cleaned regularly

source:

Safety

OVERALL RATING (4.6)
Screen and identify all visitors
Parents may not bring sick children to school where they may infect others

source:

Montessori? Waldorf? Play-based?

What school type is right for your child? Is one model better than another? What does the research say?

View an example from the Savvy Source guide to learn more.

This is a great memento from the holiday season. Dip your child's hand in white paint and press (read more)

Comment (2)

Share From Send A Link To Your Comments:

Take Our Expert Quiz

how is your toddler or preschooler progressing developmentally?