Why Twin Parks

Montessori education offers a complete educational curriculum and developmental experience designed to maximize each child's potential. Within a classroom environment that has been purposefully designed to meet every child's unique developmental needs, adults who are specifically trained and accredited both to observe the whole group and to guide each individual to beautiful learning materials and lessons that honor their capacities and agency, and provide exactly what each one needs at that very moment to learn.
Montessori Child working with practical life materials

Montessori Fosters Independence

At Twin Parks schools, infants, toddlers, and young children learn that their independence is valued and that we have faith in their agency. We encourage free movement, choice within careful limits, and ensure they know their voices are heard. As children get older, they begin to learn about time management. We teach them practical life skills useful in the classroom, home, and beyond that allow them to take care of themselves, of others, and of their environment. Supporting this independence gives children a tremendous sense of empowerment and confidence that allow them to feel at ease and to progress happily and quickly through the curriculum. 

Montessori Child working in the classroom

We Follow the Child

The Montessori maxim of "following the child" begins by having teachers trained in the specific developmental stages of children, and the growing familiarity they have with each child they work with through daily observation and interactions. By honoring where children are in their development, we create educational environments that meet their needs and support ongoing progress. Because learning is not always linear, each individual child will need different challenges and supports throughout their time at Twin Parks, and will also have opportunities to study areas of personal interest more deeply.

Montessori classroom

Beautiful Classrooms Inspire Beautiful Work

Upon stepping into a Montessori classroom, one immediately sees the difference in our environments. We value natural materials and prefer natural lighting. Living things (both plants and animals) are present, as are low shelves that allow children to easily access their work. There are areas for children to work in a group or alone, and on the floor or in a chair. Materials are of high quality, inspiring the children who use them to make their work beautiful.

Child working with Montessori materials

Nature is Integrated

In addition to the plants and animals that children help care for, our classrooms often have a museum-like quality to them. Depending on what the children are studying, one could find a variety of interesting specimens. Dissected owl pellets, ancient fossils, and sparkling geodes are just a few of the countless possibilities. Natural studies such as botany and zoology begin at the primary level. Our proximity to Central Park and Riverside Park allow us to bring our students out into nature whenever possible, giving them an opportunity to enjoy it firsthand and bring their learning to life!

Montessori Child playing in the classroom

We Value Courtesy, Kindness, and Peace

Our students are global citizens who are preparing to be successful 21st century human beings. Care and respect for oneself, others, and the world and all its inhabitants is built into the classroom culture and the Practical Life and Grace and Courtesy curriculum strands. In addition, World geography is taught beginning at a young age and children learn about traditions from a wide range of cultures, and families and community members are invited and encouraged to share their own cultural and family traditions with the community. We take the time to teach conflict resolution skills, and are always available to help children work through social dynamics as they arise. We know that peace and kindness are the base of a child and a community feeling secure in their ongoing development. This experience of kindness and security is critical to any quality education and it provides a necessary foundation for the progress of humanity.

Montessori guide and child working with geography materials

We Value Formative Assessment

Assessment is derived from a Latin word meaning to sit beside. In a Montessori classroom, that is exactly what we do. Teachers sit beside children while they work, gathering insights and information as they go. The three period lesson, a Montessori hallmark, is designed to measure understanding and mastery while teaching. Teachers also observe students and take notes, allowing them to identify areas in which students are ready for more challenge or support. Utilizing daily formative assessments allows teaching and learning to be adjusted in the moment, so each child is getting exactly what they need.

Montessori children working together

But what exactly is Montessori education?

At its core, Montessori is simply is a way of being with and guiding children that allows each child to develop fully into the person he or she was destined to be. Just as you make every effort to ensure your home is loving and safe – so your child feels secure and well-adjusted – we work diligently to ensure the physical environment, the teachers, and the student community will meet your child’s needs with respect and support at each step in his educational journey.



“There was a tremendous sense of community fostered at Park West. Park West was a wonderfully positive, fulfilling and nurturing experience for our son. We offer our sincere thanks and gratitude to all of the dedicated staff of Park West.”

- Park West Montessori School Parent

If you think your child would thrive in a Montessori environment, give us a call or schedule an Info Session or apply online. We would love for you to virtually visit our school and learn more.

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