RE: Anyone have thoughts about Montessori Preschools?
Like any preschool, I would go and observe and make sure you are comfortable with the program. I personally like the idea of Montessori, but not always the price that goes with it! I've looked into it a fair bit since I have one around the corner from me too, but I ended up putting her in a different program, since I decided I didn't want anything too structured for her.
I also wouldn't like a 5 day a week program. And for that long of a day, they will have to have a (legally mandated) nap, and personally, I'm not paying preschool to watch my kid sleep, you know?
I have also talked to several public school teachers about how they thought kids transferred from Montessori preschools into public schools and, unfortunately, the reply is mixed. Some kids transfer just fine and some have trouble moving from the Montessori environment to a more traditional school environment.
HTH,
Beth, mom to older DD (8/01) and younger DD (10/06) and always missing Leah (4/22 - 5/1/05)