About me
Hi there— I’m Alexis. I was born and raised in California and have been living in Ann Arbor with my husband and two sweet kiddos for 6 years. I hold a masters degree in early childhood education as well as an AMI Montessori teacher certification from the Montessori Institute NW. I have been a Montessori educator for 12 years and I am dedicated to the Montessori principle that all children are naturally good, peaceful and curious, and that in the context of a supportive environment, all children engage instinctively in the work of self-construction.
Hello!
Hours of Operation and Location
Location
We are located on the west side of Ann Arbor on a nature-filled cul-de-sac in the Eberwhite neighborhood.
Hours of Operation
9am-3pm Monday-Friday
*I do not currently offer before/after care. But if you need care that is slightly outside of my hours of opperation, please let me know and we may be able to work something out:)
2024-2025 Calendar
coming soon…
Montessori and your baby
Sense of Trust
Infant children need to be held and nurtured in order to develop a sense of trust with the world and in those caring for them. I follow the infants by observing their natural schedules and allowing them to eat when they are hungry, nap when they are tired and explore when they are ready while providing a loving and safe environment.
From the head to the brain
Dr. Montessori demonstrated that when infants hold things with their hands, the information transmitted to their brains sets in motion a whole series of coordinated events. This learning process is deeply satisfying for the infant. Each object in the prepared environment is a potential learning tool. Objects correlate with the infant’s sensitive periods and these objects enable the infant’s concentration and hand-eye coordination, supporting repeated and sustained exploration.
Language Development
This environment is rich in real and precise language about every part of the daily routine. As the adult in the environment, I am consistently describing what is happening. The children are absorbing language, as I am offering rich sources of language such as reading books, reciting rhymes and lullabies and using a full vocabulary (not changing or making words shorter for children). This helps children to acquire their native language and develop patterns in the brain which will be necessary in the future for reading and learning.
Freedom of Movement
Movement is important in all Montessori environments. Because this is the period when infants learn to roll over, sit, scoot, crawl and walk, the room has as many opportunities for movement. For infants, there is an emphasis on strengthening muscles and developing gross motor skills. Tools include mirrors positioned close to the floor to stimulate self-discovery, low bars mounted on the wall and soft furniture to pull themselves up, and stairs with low steps and a railing to practice climbing up and down. This equipment helps to develop movement in the youngest Montessori children and lays the foundation for future cognitive development. Children who are free to move and explore learn to pursue their own interests.