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Infant-Parent

The first years of life represent one of the most remarkable periods of human development. From birth through the second year, the young child is forming the foundations of movement, language, independence, and relationship with the world.

During this time, children absorb their environment with extraordinary sensitivity, constructing themselves through purposeful activity and interaction.

The Infant & Parent program at St. Helena Montessori offers families an opportunity to experience the Montessori approach during this earliest stage of development. Designed for children approximately 12–24 months of age, the program provides a thoughtfully prepared environment where young children explore movement, early language, and independence alongside a parent or caregiver.

A young child in a white shirt and red pants sits at a wooden table playing with toy insects, while in the background, brooms and cleaning supplies are neatly arranged.
kids playing at the park

Guided by Mrs. Micaela Belmonte, an AMI-trained Montessori guide, the environment is carefully arranged to support the developmental needs of the young child. Low shelves, purposeful materials, and opportunities for movement allow the child to actively engage in the world actively while parents observe and deepen their understanding of Montessori principles in action. For many families, the Infant & Parent environment serves as a gentle introduction to Montessori education while helping parents learn how to prepare their home environments in ways that support independence, order, and meaningful activity. The program is offered periodically throughout the school year as part of our commitment to supporting families during the earliest stages of childhood.

Many families who participate in Infant & Parent later transition into our Toddler community, continuing their child’s Montessori journey within the prepared environments of St. Helena Montessori.

The greatness of the human personality begins at the hour of birth.
Maria Montessori

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Birth to Three: Parent Education Series

In addition to the Infant & Parent environment, St. Helena Montessori periodically offers a parent education discussion series focused on development from birth through age three. Led by Mrs. Micaela Belmonte, these gatherings provide families with insight into the extraordinary developmental changes taking place during the earliest years of life.

Grounded in Montessori principles and current understanding of early childhood development, the series explores how parents can thoughtfully support their child’s rapidly developing mind and body while cultivating independence, confidence, and strong family relationships.

Topics in the series often include:

 

A young boy plays with a triangle and drum on a purple mat in the foreground, while a fish tank and shelves filled with toys are visible in the background.

The Absorbent Mind

An understanding of the young child’s remarkable capacity for self-construction through experience.

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Movement

The relationship between physical development, exploration, and cognitive growth.

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Communication and Language

Supporting early language and connection with others.

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Food and Relationship

How mealtimes foster independence, routine, and family culture.

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Freedom and Discipline

Helping the child develop self-control and responsible choice.

A young child in a white shirt and red pants sits at a wooden table playing with toy insects, while in the background, brooms and cleaning supplies are neatly arranged.
Together, these conversations offer parents both practical guidance and a deeper understanding of the developmental needs of children in the earliest years of life.