Sensory Material

A child makes his first orientation of the world around him through his senses which help him absorb impressions of his surroundings. In the first two years of life, the child is guided by some inner sensitivity to acquire certain knowledge, and then the conscious mind takes over this process. At this time, it is critical to guide him as he continues to absorb information at a phenomenal rate.

Used by children of all ages, sensorial materials help the child in developing his five senses and his mathematical mind.

Language Arts

The child spontaneously acquires basic patterns of speech from his immediate surroundings. Dr. Montessori understood this well and produced many preparatory exercises which help the child to later develop into writing and reading at two levels.

The first “learning explosion” comes when the child writes letters of the alphabet wherever she finds a writing utensil. The second is reading out the letters wherever she sees them written. Gradually the child is led into the process of word building and then reading words.

Mathematics

The child starts by associating objects to numbers and gradually learns complex concepts like addition, subtraction, multiplication and division. For example, the child is taught first that quantitative value of numbers from 1-10 with numerals that represent the symbols 0 to 10.

This is followed by the hierarchical systems of the base of ten in the form of the Decimal system materials which consists of loose unit beads for the “one”, bars of ten beads for the “tens”, and squares of 10 ten bars for “hundreds”. With these materials, children first learn the numbers and then learn the four basic operations of addition, subtraction, multiplication and division as well as an introduction to fractions, coins and measurements. Thus, mastering the basic essentials of the functioning of numbers for later abstract work.

Sciences

The child is introduced to the basic elements of Anatomy, Zoology, Physical Science, Astronomy, Geography and History. Montessori didactic material is used to explain basic principles like the water cycle, the solar system, geographic forms, skeletal system and basic electricity. Large specially formed maps of various countries, sets of flags, leaf cabinets, Botany cards, Zoology cards, and magnets help accelerate the learning process.

Music and Art

To aid the development of these fundamental creative forms, CLC gives children the opportunity for self-expression and refinement in the ability to appreciate art and music. Montessori materials designed to refine the ability to distinguish various musical notes are used to train the ears of a child. Recently we had the opportunity to visit the Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza to see and learn about the symphony. Children learn about rhythm, musical tones and pitches and are encouraged to have creative movement through dance. Drama and song activities with stage performances are also encouraged.

Art teachers encourage children to draw and become aware of the shapes and forms in the environment. Children learn about the masters and what distinguished their art from others. Many different mediums are used to create the child’s own masterpiece.

Extra Curriculum

CLC offers programs to round off the total personality development of a child. Outdoor activity, games and exercises are part of a typical school day. Gymnastics are offered through “Kids in Motion” an outside company that comes to work with the children. During summer hours swimming is offered twice a week as well as field trips to roller skate, Thousand Oaks Botanical Gardens, parks and horseback riding.

Computers are also introduced to the children as this is an important tool for modern day living. Children use educational programs for fun filled learning experiences. Circle time is also an opportunity for children to express themselves. The older children help younger children in various Montessori exercises, thus developing leadership abilities and learning the joys of responsible social behavior.