Toddlers program (18 months - 2 years)

preschool sensory activity

At Montana Preschool, young children are seen as capable, curious learners from the very beginning.

Toddlers learn through hands-on exploration, strong relationships, and meaningful experiences that grow from their interests. Teachers carefully observe, listen, and respond to each child, creating an environment rich in sensory materials, open-ended play, and opportunities for communication and discovery. Learning unfolds through daily experiences where toddlers express themselves through movement, play, art, music, and early language.

Our goal is to help each child feel secure, confident, and excited to explore their surroundings while building early social and communication skills.

Preschool program (2-5 years)

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We believe that play alone is not enough — children benefit from experiences that are both joyful and intentionally designed for growth.

Our curriculum blends academics with S.E.A. (Science, Engineering, and Art) activities that spark creativity, hands-on experimentation, and problem-solving alongside play-based learning. Children rotate through dedicated learning spaces, allowing them to fully engage in each area while experiencing variety and focus throughout the day. We also integrate real-life and global perspectives, connecting lessons to meaningful experiences from around the world.

Each activity is thoughtfully guided to support cognitive development, language growth, social-emotional skills, and strong friendships.

Our Curriculum

At Montana Preschool, our curriculum is rooted in real-life experiences and global awareness, helping children form meaningful connections to the world around them. Learning is inspired by everyday events, seasonal changes, and world holidays and cultural celebrations explored throughout the year, with thoughtfully introduced monthly themes that bring depth and continuity to each experience.

Through age-appropriate discussions, literature, music, art, cooking, hands-on exploration, and meaningful conversation, children are introduced to diverse traditions, values, and perspectives in an inclusive and respectful way. These experiences are intentionally woven into Science, Engineering through Construction, Art, Language Development, Early Academics, and Social-Emotional Learning — allowing children to connect new knowledge to real-life situations they recognize and care about.

Our blended approach extends beyond the classroom. Children participate in daily enrichment classes, weekly cooking experiences that build practical life skills and confidence, and weekly private piano lessons that nurture focus, creativity, and self-expression. Field trips and real-world explorations further deepen learning, transforming concepts into lived experiences and strengthening children’s understanding of their community and the broader world.

Guided by intentional teaching and strong relationships, children develop empathy, curiosity, independence, and critical thinking skills. More than learning facts, they build a strong academic and social foundation — preparing them not only for kindergarten, but for life.

Enrichment Classes

Our enrichment program is an integral part of the Montana Preschool experience, designed to expand learning beyond the core curriculum and nurture the whole child. Children participate in daily enrichment classes that deepen their exploration through thoughtfully guided experiences build creativity, focus, confidence, and critical thinking skills while exposing children to new ideas and talents.

Monday at 11 am Yoga

Tuesday at 11 am Soccer

Wednesday at 11 am Hip hop

Thursday at 11 am Gymnastics

Friday at 11 am Tennis + Piano

Nutrition

Two containers with cooked pasta and chopped vegetables.

We support healthy eating habits by providing nutritious meals and snacks in a positive, social environment. We are mindful of allergies and dietary needs and work closely with families to support each child.

At Montana Preschool, we believe in nurturing the whole child — mind, body, and heart. Supporting healthy eating habits is an essential part of that philosophy. We provide nutritious, thoughtfully prepared meals and snacks in a positive, social environment where children learn to enjoy food, develop healthy habits, and build independence.

All meals are provided by the school and are carefully prepared using high-quality ingredients. Our food is:

• Organic
• Home-cooked
• Hormone- and antibiotic-free
• GMO-free
• Kosher
• Made with all-natural, wholesome ingredients

We thoughtfully incorporate beans, seeds, and whole grains to create complete plant-based proteins, and we use whole wheat and whole grain breads and crackers. A variety of vegetarian options are available.

We are mindful of allergies and dietary needs and work closely with families to ensure each child is supported safely and respectfully.

Through shared meals and meaningful conversation, children practice social skills, gratitude, and healthy lifestyle habits — reinforcing our commitment to educating and caring for the whole child.

Potty Training

A toddler sitting on a potty with colorful pants pulled down.

Potty training is associated with language development and self-confidence.

We help support families during this wonderful time by collaborating routines at the school and at home to achieve maximum success in the shortest amount of time with no accident. Readiness to potty training is regardless of age and is not a requirement at the Montana Preschool.

Transition to Preschool

A woman and a young girl holding hands and talking indoors.

We offer a gentle transition period to help children feel comfortable before their official start date. Families are invited to visit for short daily play sessions, allowing children to get to know the classroom, teachers, and routine at their own pace.

We provide up to 2 hours of free transition time during the month before enrollment begins.

Field Trips

  • The Aquarium of the Pacific in Santa Monica
  • Santa Monica Fire Station
  • Science Center
  • The Skirball Center- Noah’s Ark exhibit
  • Natural History Museum
  • Pumpkin Patch
  • The Getty Center