What is the difference between Montessori preschool and traditional preschool?

In a Montessori classroom, children learn in mixed-age groups, choose hands-on materials, and progress at their own pace with teachers guiding individual and small-group lessons. Traditional preschools usually group children by age and follow a teacher-led schedule of whole-class activities.

What age can my child start Montessori preschool at BHMS?

Children join the BHMS preschool as Threes (age three by September 1) or Fours (age four by September 1). Younger children can begin in our Montessori Twos program, for children who turn two by September 1.

Is Montessori preschool play-based?

It is hands-on and joyful, but structured differently from a play-based program. Children choose purposeful activities, which Maria Montessori called “work,” and each material is designed to build a specific skill such as concentration, coordination, or early math.

Does Montessori Preschool prepare children for Kindergarten?

Yes. At BHMS, Kindergarten is the third year of the same Montessori cycle, so children continue with familiar classmates, teachers, and materials. They move on to more advanced lessons and take on the role of classroom leaders, a natural step that builds confidence before elementary school.

What Sets BHMS Apart from Other Preschools in NYC?

BHMS is the only Preschool through 8th Grade school in New York City accredited by both the American Montessori Society and the New York State Association of Independent Schools. This means we are held to a rigorous accreditation process and accountable to the standards set forth by both organizations.

Early Childhood Programs > Montessori Preschool

Montessori Preschool at BHMS

Students Ages Three and Four

Our Montessori Preschool serves students ages three, four, and kindergarten in mixed-age classrooms guided by the Montessori philosophy.

What Is Montessori Preschool?

In a Montessori Preschool, children learn in a carefully prepared Montessori environment working with hands-on materials, learning at their own pace while teachers guide individual and small-group lessons.

The three-year cycle of learning is designed to take advantage of the exciting period in a child’s life between the ages of three and six, when the mind absorbs information like a sponge. In the first two years of this cycle in our Montessori early childhood programs, materials help children to develop order, coordination, concentration, and independent work habits, which are essential for the more advanced skills and materials they will encounter at ages five and six.

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A Typical Day in Our Montessori Preschool

Through the structure of the Montessori classroom and guidance from the teachers, children learn to take responsibility for their own learning. Small groups and individual instruction characterize the Preschool. Each day includes a long, uninterrupted work cycle, individual and small group lessons, and outdoor time on our rooftop playground.

Students in the Threes and Fours can attend a half-day or full-day program, and families who need extended hours have the option to join our after school program.

Montessori Preschool Curriculum and Program Highlights

In addition to traditional Montessori materials, many classroom activities are designed by the teachers; they monitor and adapt activities according to the needs and interests of the children. Each classroom is divided into distinct subject areas, each holding specific materials designed to engage children’s interest. The core curricular areas in a Montessori Preschool Classroom are: Language, Practical Life, Sensorial, Cultural Studies, and Math. Ranging from simple to complex, the graduated materials are designed to inspire children’s natural curiosity and increase concentration, fine motor control, and organizational skills.

Hallmarks of the BHMS Preschool Experience Include:

The opportunity to learn, practice, and master material while forming deep, meaningful connections with their teachers and peers
An individualized curriculum designed for students’ joyful discovery of new concepts
A beautiful classroom environment with carefully designed Montessori materials
Freedom to move throughout the classroom
Art, music, and physical education programming
Daily outdoor play time on the roof playground
Library time and Spanish exposure

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Benefits of Montessori Preschool

Montessori preschool builds the skills children carry into Kindergarten and beyond. Children in our program develop:

A solid academic foundation across subject areas
Confidence as leaders in their community
A sense of autonomy and strong executive functioning skills
Intrinsic motivation and a love of learning

Research backs this up: a 2025 national study found that children who attended Montessori preschool were ahead of their peers in reading, executive function, and social understanding by the end of kindergarten. At BHMS, preschool is the start of a continuous Montessori education from the Twos through 8th grade, continuing into our Elementary Programs and Middle School and on to high school placement.

Frequently Asked Questions About Montessori Preschool

To learn about all of our programs in greater depth, see our Curriculum Guide.