Not necessarily. Because we want to maintain a balance of ages, and because it is ideal to begin a child in a Montessori program by age three, we often reserve a few spots for children who fall into this age category. When space allows, your child may begin the program after the usual September start date (i.e., upon his becoming two years, nine months old). Please speak to us about this special situation.

Barat is a happy, relaxed place for our children to learn and our staff to teach. The small size of our school lends itself to a family-style atmosphere. We do not implement the Montessori method in a particularly strict or rigid manner, nor do we have an overly open or permissive environment. We strive for a true balance, one that fosters joyful learning and fun.

We care about our families. Having a child (especially a first born) attend preschool for the first time is a milestone for any family. It is a major first step toward separation and independence. We love teaching, but we also see ourselves as familiy facilitators, helping make the transition process as smooth as possible during these early years of education. We get to know our children and families well. We love teaching. For some of us, it's been a lifelong vocation. For others, it's a calling found later in life. Long after your children have gone for the day, you'll find us chatting about their accomplishments, reviewing individual progress, planning new activities, and thinking about the days ahead.

Along with our passion, we bring experience and training. All teachers at Barat are Montessori certified and hold diplomas from the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI), the American Montessori Society (AMS), The Pan American Montessori Society, or the North American Montessori Teacher Training Center (NAMC). Our founder, Susan Haigney, holds a Masters of Education from Boston College and was personally certified by Mario Montessori (Maria's son). All classes are staffed by lead teachers with graduate degrees and Massachusetts State early education teaching certifications.

We firmly believe in and follow the tenants of the Montessori Method as described by Dr. Montessori. It is our belief, however, that Dr. Montessori never intended her method to be implemented in a rigid nor overly permissive manner. Barat Montessori could thus be described as a progressive Montessori school. We maintain an open mind with regard to incorporating new materials into the curriculum (provided they support Montessori principles). We also recognize that a majority of our graduates eventually move into traditional public and private schools. In order to make their transitions as smooth as possible, we include a few traditional materials and lessons in our day. Most importantly, we teach them how to negotiate large group learning experiences such as recess, snack time and circle time.