Little Sprouts FAQ

Yes. With guidance from your child’s teacher, each student is responsible for his or her own work and play experiences. Choosing tasks and specific materials are almost always up to the child. By carefully observing each child, teachers help determine which lessons and materials are appropriate for future learning. Some students may reach certain sensitive periods of learning and feel ready for reading, writing, or simple addition and subtraction, while others might be sensitive to practical life, geography, or art.

The Montessori classroom uses a holistic approach that emphasizes freedom of movement, independent learning, and uniquely designed tactile materials. The program balances comforting routine with flexibility to meet each child’s needs. Children may work independently, in small groups, or with peers while exploring practical life skills, the senses, language, math, zoology, botany, geography, music, and art.

No. Not all young children want or need a daily program. Families choose from two to four days per week (Tuesday/Thursday, Wednesday/Friday, or all four days), with either half or full days.

We have a teacher-to-student ratio of 1:6, with two head teachers and one aide in a classroom capped at eighteen students. This allows each child to receive regular one-on-one presentations individualized to their needs and learning style.

No. Your child may start at any time during the year for most classes if space is available.

Little Sprouts reserves the right to ask a student to leave if the program cannot meet the student’s needs, or if the student’s behavior is unmanageable or detracts from others’ experience. Program facilitators and the Board of Directors work together on these decisions, and the parent or guardian is contacted about specific concerns before any action.

Yes. We expect students to manage their toilet needs independently. If a physical or developmental issue prevents this, we can work with your family on a plan that meets your child’s needs.

Our small program has limited support resources. We can sometimes accommodate students with minor support needs, but we are not a special-needs school. Please talk with us about your child’s specific needs so we can determine whether the program is a good fit.

Begin by contacting Leaves to confirm Little Sprouts availability and complete the pre-admission interview, campus tour, staff introduction, and classroom orientation. Once space is approved, register classes in Sawyer, pay the initial material fees, and sign the basic family policies and Tuition Contract. Next, create an Alma Start account to provide contact, emergency, medical, and other student information. Finally, set up a tuition payment plan and payment information in FACTS.

Enrollment for new families begins with a 90-day trial period. During that period, a parent or guardian may withdraw the student or drop classes without further financial obligation beyond tuition through the end of the month in which written notice is received, full-year materials fees, and any unpaid tuition or class fees. After 90 days, families are responsible for tuition for the remainder of the program year.

A multi-age classroom lets children learn through peer observation. Older children reinforce their learning by helping younger classmates, while younger children benefit from their modeling and guidance. The broad range of materials lets teachers meet each child at their current level rather than teaching only by age.

Teachers regularly observe children, noting their interests, the work they are mastering, and areas where they may need more support. Families receive a detailed progress evaluation in February and another at the end of the year.

Little Sprouts provides a strong academic and social foundation while encouraging independence and a sense of accomplishment. Teachers introduce more complex materials as each child is ready. Detailed evaluations and parent-teacher communication help families decide on a positive placement for the coming year.

We focus less on formal testing than a traditional school. Most assessments feel like games and are based on observation as children work with classroom materials.

Every kindergarten family receives a thorough evaluation at mid-year and at the end of the year covering the child’s learning experiences and growth.

Yes. Children may enroll in Little Sprouts kindergarten part-time. Because foundational skills such as reading develop best with short, frequent practice, we strongly recommend regular reading, writing, and math experiences at home.