The Things We Love About Montessori
By Donna Koontz, Director of Admissions, Westcliff Early Learning Academy
Where Independence Begins
Finding the right early learning program is about more than curriculum — it’s about discovering an environment where your child’s natural drive to learn can truly unfold.
Montessori education is built on the belief that every child is born with an innate curiosity and the ability to become their own best teacher.
“I can do it myself.”
— The joyful anthem of every Montessori child.
At Westcliff Early Learning Academy, we see that transformation every day — children who arrive curious and leave confident, capable, and kind.
Independence in Action
In a Montessori classroom, everything is designed for the child to do for themselves — from pouring water to preparing a snack or arranging flowers. These simple acts of independence build a profound sense of confidence.
This autonomy is intentional. Materials are thoughtfully arranged, child-sized tools are within reach, and teachers guide through quiet observation rather than direction. The result? Children develop responsibility, perseverance, and the joy of purposeful work.
The Self-Constructing Child
Dr. Maria Montessori believed that children “construct themselves” through their work.
At Westcliff Early Learning Academy, we witness this daily — the deep concentration of a toddler fitting a cylinder block, the careful sequencing of a preschooler laying out number rods, the quiet pride of mastering a new skill.
Each activity supports both mind and body: building fine motor precision, logical thinking, and inner discipline. The classroom hums with a peaceful rhythm as each child follows their natural path toward mastery.
“The child builds himself through activity.” — Maria Montessori
Grace, Courtesy, and Social Growth
Montessori classrooms are small communities where respect and kindness are daily habits. Children greet one another, wait patiently for materials, and offer help freely. Through these moments, they develop empathy, emotional intelligence, and social grace.
Older children often become quiet leaders — modeling patience, communication, and compassion. This sense of harmony doesn’t just create calm classrooms; it lays the foundation for lifelong relationships built on mutual respect.
Hands, Heart, and Mind Working Together
The Montessori environment engages the whole child. Manipulating objects refines fine motor control, while real-life practical tasks connect movement with meaning.
Each sensorial and academic material is a pathway to discovery — from tracing sandpaper letters to composing numbers with golden beads. This hands-on learning allows abstract concepts to grow from real experiences, ensuring understanding that lasts well beyond the preschool years.
Where Montessori Meets Reggio and Nature
At Westcliff Early Learning Academy, Montessori’s calm order and individual focus are beautifully complemented by the collaborative spirit of Reggio Emilia and the wonder of nature-based learning.
While Montessori materials invite focus and precision, Reggio-inspired projects encourage children to work together — expressing ideas through art, storytelling, and construction. Outdoors, nature becomes a living classroom where children tend gardens, build habitats, and explore cause and effect in real time.
“Children learn best when their hands, hearts, and imaginations work together.”
This blend allows each child to flourish both as an independent learner and as part of a creative, connected community. Whether indoors or out, the guiding principles remain the same: respect, curiosity, and a deep love of learning.
A Lifelong Love of Learning
When children are trusted to make choices, follow their curiosity, and explore at their own pace, they discover the joy of learning itself. That’s the heart of Montessori — nurturing not only knowledge, but also motivation, focus, and confidence.
At Westcliff Early Learning Academy, we celebrate each child’s journey toward independence, compassion, and intellectual growth. Families choose Montessori because they want more than early education — they want a foundation for life.
See the Montessori Difference
We invite Orange County families to visit Westcliff Early Learning Academy and see the Montessori approach in action. Step into our beautifully prepared environments, observe the quiet confidence of our learners, and feel the peace and purpose that define a true Montessori classroom.
We don’t just teach independence at Westcliff Early Learning Academy, we nurture it, one joyful discovery at a time.
