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?
How much is the tuition at the Children's House?
The fees for the 2022-23 school year are as follows:
ENROLLMENT FEE
$200 for the first child; $125 for the second child
HALF-DAY MORNING PROGRAM (MONDAY-FRIDAY, 8:30-11:30) MONTHLY TUITION
$330 per month; $300 per month for second child
AFTERNOON PROGRAM FOR FULL DAY (11:30-2:30)
Tuesday/Thursday – add $100 per month
Monday/Wednesday/Friday – add $150 per month
Monday through Friday – add $250 per month
The Afternoon Program is limited to 15 children, is first come, first serve, and fills up quickly. If a day becomes available, we will contact those on the list.
What is your holiday schedule?
What other preschools are in the area?
Where do I send my child once they graduate from the Children's House? Is there a "next level" Montessori School on the Coast?
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.