The Montessori Philosophy
Aya is an AMI-Montessori Member School. The Montessori method of education was developed by Dr. Maria Montessori who was the first female, Italian physician. Dr. Montessori developed this approach through the scientific observation of children all over the world. Through her observations, Dr. Montessori found consistent, naturally developing tendencies and characteristics that would serve as the foundation for the creation of optimally prepared environments that would encourage and support the realization of children’s full potential.
Every teaching method, however, sparks moments of learning. Then why is Montessori so different? The difference is the method itself. The mind of a child is like a sponge—absorbing everything, always at the ready to learn something new. The primary goal of Montessori education? To turn that spark into a lifelong flame.
Imagine a school…
where education is viewed not just as a means to an end, but as an aid to life; where the method for learning comes not from a curriculum, but from the natural development of your child; a place where creativity, innovation, and individuality are valued as much as concentration, motivation, and persistence; where your child is not just a student, but also a teacher.
Why Aya?
Aya has adopted key Montessori principles in across all levels:
Multimodal Learning – Learning happens through movement, touch, sight and sound.
Mixed Age Classrooms – Placing children in mixed age groups, corresponding to planes of development, allows them to relate to children who are both older and younger. It also allows for a “confidence interval” around learning in that a child is not labeled as either behind or gifted simply because they acquire a concept a little earlier or a little later than same age peers.
Observation – Observation of the child reveals the proper timing for the presentation of new information and experiences academically, socially and personally.
Developmental – Awareness of the needs and abilities during specific times of development allows for optimal engagement and learning for the child.
Classroom Community – The classroom experience should build on the desire of the young child to master his or her environment. The classroom community is child-centered rather than adult-centered.
Materials – The use of self-correcting materials allows children to manipulate and explore at their own pace and experience satisfaction and develop self-confidence with success.
To learn more, visit AMI-USA.
Program & Ages Overview
We are accepting children from ages 2 to 12 years in the upcoming academic year. Children are usually divided into groups according to common developmental milestones and needs. Montessori approach experts believe in mixing different age-groups in the classroom. This allows them to work, learn and play together.
Aya is proud to cater to different age groups under one roof. Aya is an:
MONTESSORI-VALIDATED: Aya is a Maryland Montessori-validated school through EducationMattersLLC.
MSDE NON-PUBLIC SCHOOL: The KG-6 Grade Program at Aya is an MSDE- Approved Nonpublic School Program.
OFFICE OF CHILDCARE: Aya’s 2-5 Program is licensed by the Office of Childcare.
YCC/Twos
(2 - 3 years)
Twos Community: 24 to 36 months
Primary
(3 years - 6 years) *
Primary children must be fully bathroom independent before the first day of school.
Children who turn 5 before September 1st must have prior Montessori experience.
Elementary
Lower Elementary: (6 years - 9 years) +
Upper Elementary: (9 years - 12 years) in 2023
Children joining from other school MUST go through an assessment process.