FAQ
Frequently Asked QuestionsBelow are answers to some frequently asked questions about the Montessori philosophy, details about the Children’s House and enrollment. Click on the + sign to reveal the answer to each question.
MONTESSORI PHILOSOPHY
How is a Montessori School different from another preschool?
The teachers in a Montessori environment are considered “guides” who help the children discover the materials and explore the learning opportunities each material provides. Children move freely around the environment and choose work that is appealing. The teachers help them move to the next level of work as needed.
Children in a Montessori environment will learn to have responsibility for their work and environment. When a child makes a mess or drops materials, they are asked to clean up and shown how to do so if they don’t already know. A Montessori environment is one of peace and respect where a child learns at his/her own pace.
Is the Children’s House really a Montessori School?
What can we expect for our child by sending them to a Montessori School?
Is the Children’s House the only Montessori Preschool on the Mississippi Gulf Coast?
CHILDREN’S HOUSE DETAILS
How long has the Children's House been in existence at First Presbyterian Church?
What are the ages of the children at the Children's House?
How many children are enrolled at the Children's House?
What is the student/teacher ratio at the Children's House?
How many days/week will my child attend school?
Does the Children's House have before/after care?
What is your holiday schedule?
We are aligned with the Ocean Springs Public School System. You can find our detailed holiday calendar here. It changes each year.
What other preschools are in the area?
There are many traditional preschools in the area. Most of these programs are church-affiliated and offer half or full day schedules. You may find a listing of these programs in the yellow pages in your phone book.
Where do I send my child once they graduate from the Children's House? Is there a "next level" Montessori School on the Coast?
Following graduation from the Children’s House, children are usually sent either to a public school in their area or to a private school of their choice. The Treehouse Montessori Christian School is now available as a “next level” choice. Treehouse opened in August 2015 for students 1st – 5th grade (ages 6-11) and has expanded through high school. This school is currently located on the third floor of the Christian Education building of First Presbyterian Church.
CHILDREN’S HOUSE ENROLLMENT
When should I put my child on the waiting list?
When will I know if my child will get into the Children's House?
You will be contacted by the Children’s House Head of School in early spring of your child’s enrollment year. Priority enrollment is given to children who currently have a sibling in the school, then to members of First Presbyterian Church and finally to the general wait list. When you place a child on the waiting list, the date and time of contact is noted and this is how the waiting list is ordered. Instructions for putting your child on the waiting list can be found here.