The Westwood School Beginner program is a nurturing place for children to begin what Dr. Maria Montessori referred to as their “education for life.”
We introduce the two-year-old child to his or her first social experience beyond the family. This environment helps the child move toward independence in a safe, warm, and stable classroom where he or she acquires the skills to “do it myself.” Here, the toddler launches into social relationships with peers and starts to learn the importance of cooperation and assertiveness.
Our Beginner program centers on sensory experiences, language expansion, and muscle development. We provide large “practical life” and “sensorial” areas emphasizing gross and fine motor coordination.Children are immersed in Spanish for part of each day. 
They are also introduced to Mandarin at this age. A rich atmosphere of oral language is featured using storytelling, reading aloud, and songs. As children become ready, phonics is introduced and basic math concepts are explored. Also, in this setting, Westwood works in cooperation with parents to toilet train toddlers. Children who stay for the Extended Day program take a nap at school.
