Kindergarten Information Night is more than an open house; it’s your chance to understand how this final year of the Montessori three-year cycle becomes “The Leadership Year” for your child. In a Montessori environment, kindergarteners are not just the oldest in the room; they are role models, mentors, and confident learners who help shape the classroom culture.

With a panel of teachers and experienced parents, this is the perfect opportunity to see how Montessori philosophy comes to life in real classrooms.

Ask how the three-year cycle leads to leadership

Montessori kindergarten is effective because children have already spent years developing foundational skills. The final year is where everything comes together.

Ask:

• How does the kindergarten year build on the first two years in the Montessori cycle?
• What makes this year different from the previous ones?
• How do kindergarteners take on leadership roles in the classroom? 

Listen to how teachers describe older children guiding younger ones, modeling grace and courtesy, and taking responsibility for their environment.

Ask how independence becomes confidence

In Montessori, independence is not rushed; it’s cultivated. By kindergarten, children are capable of extraordinary things.

You might ask:

• What kinds of work do kindergarteners do that show advanced thinking?
• How are children encouraged to plan their own work and manage their time?
• How do teachers support children in becoming self-motivated learners?
  

This is where you’ll hear about longer work periods, complex materials, and children taking ownership of their learning.

Ask how Montessori supports social leadership

The Leadership Year isn’t just academic,  it’s deeply social and emotional.

Good questions include:

• How do kindergarteners mentor younger classmates?
• How are empathy, patience, and responsibility taught?
• What happens when conflicts arise between children?
  

Experienced parents often enjoy discussing how their once-shy child has become a confident helper and problem-solver.

Ask how readiness for elementary school is built

Montessori kindergarten prepares children not just to enter first grade — but to thrive there.

Ask:

• How are reading, writing, and math skills deepened in kindergarten?
• How do children learn to think critically and work independently?
• What skills do graduates have when they leave the Montessori kindergarten?
  

Look for answers that focus on deep understanding, not memorization.

Ask experienced parents what “The Leadership Year” looked like for their child

Their stories will bring everything to life.

Ask: 

• How did your child change during the kindergarten year?
• What leadership or confidence did you see emerge?
• How prepared did your child feel moving on to elementary school?
  

A  Montessori kindergarten feels calm, purposeful, and joyful. Children move with confidence. Teachers guide rather than direct. And kindergarteners shine as capable, thoughtful leaders. 

SMS honors The Leadership Year; you’re not just enrolling your child in kindergarten; you’re giving them a powerful foundation for a lifetime of learning.