In order to offer an authentic Montessori education to our families, we strive to be consistent with the Montessori school standards set forth by the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI). This means that all of our programs are 5 days a week, Monday-Friday. We offer half day, full day, and extended day options within our 5-day program.

A consistent, predictable environment frees children from having to repeatedly readjust to a changing schedule, and provides them with the best space in which to learn and grow. We hope you will consider the benefits your child will receive from a 5-day week Montessori program!

We have two adults – one lead guide and one assistant – in our Toddler Community for a ratio of 1:6 (less than the state licensing requirement of 1:7).

We have two adults – one lead guide and one assistant – in each of our Children’s Houses (preschool ages 33 mo – 5 yrs) for a ratio of 1:10.

Our Toddler Community is made up of children ages 16 months to 33 months. We can accept a child as young as 14 months so long as he/she is steadily walking and ready for a school environment. Our Children’s Houses are made up of children ages 33 months to 5 years (through Kindergarten). A child as young as 2 1/2 may be ready to join our preschool classroom, provided that he/she is using the toilet independently and demonstrates a readiness to advance.

In both cases, our staff will work together with parents to follow the child’s development and make a determination about the child’s readiness to join/advance into a program.

No, not for children enrolled in the Toddler Community. Toilet learning is part of the work for toddlers.

 However, we do require that children are using the toilet independently before entrance into our Children’s House. This means that children must be in underwear during the day, as we do not have the facilities or the staff to accommodate diaper-changing or toileting issues (beyond the age of 33 months, per state licensing guidelines).

Yes. CHMS is a licensed child care program through the Minnesota Department of Human Services.