Answers for families finding their way in.

Across our campuses, The Garden serves children from infancy through lower elementary, roughly ages 1–9. Each campus offers a different age range, so families should check the campus pages for the programs available at each location.

Families may apply at any time. Enrollment depends on the child’s age, program, campus availability, and timing. Some programs fill earlier than others, so we recommend beginning with a visit when you are ready to learn more. We encourage families to apply by January for a Fall enrollment start.

The process usually begins with a campus visit. After that, families submit an application, then continue with a classroom observation, child visit, family conversation, and/or trial day depending on the program. If a space is offered, we guide families through enrollment and onboarding with plenty of resources and support.

Yes, some programs maintain a waitlist year-round. If a classroom is full, families may still apply or join the waitlist for a future opening. We offer rolling admissions throughout the year for most of our programs. Availability changes by campus, age group, and schedule.

We believe that Montessori is for EVERY child. However, it may not be a fit for every family for a variety of reasons. The Montessori approach is holistic and requires parents and caregivers to commit to open communication and collaboration with the school to provide a successful experience for the child. If our schedule and location feel like a good fit for you, we encourage you to visit and discuss this more in detail with us.

Tuition varies by campus, program, age level, and schedule. Current tuition and fees are listed on the Tuition & Fees page so families can review the commitment before applying.

Scholarship opportunities may be available at some campuses and programs. Availability changes by year, campus, and funding. Families with financial need are encouraged to ask during the admissions process.

Hours vary by campus and program. Some campuses offer separate enrollment in afternoon enrichment programs or clubs. However, our preschool is a half-day (3–4hr) program and we are not a licensed daycare facility. Please review the campus page for current schedules or ask during your visit.

Young children are capable of meaningful work when the environment is prepared for them. Montessori classrooms are designed for each stage of development, with child-sized materials, practical life work, movement, language, care, and gentle guidance from trained adults.

Montessori classrooms are prepared so children can choose meaningful work, build independence, and learn through hands-on materials. Teachers guide more than direct, and children are given time to concentrate, repeat, move, care for their environment, and grow at their own pace.

Yes. Montessori children practice independence, focus, problem-solving, social-emotional learning, early academics, and care for themselves and others. If a child later moves to a traditional school, we help families think through that transition with care — but we would love for your child to continue with Montessori through Elementary with us or our partner school if possible. The Montessori classroom throughout the child’s entire educational experience is well-documented as extremely beneficial in all areas of development.

Our goal is to ensure that every child and their family has a positive transition to school. Our enrollment process allows us to get to know your family’s unique experience, personalities, and needs to determine the best way to help your child adjust comfortably. Spending time on campus and with teachers ahead of a child’s start date is a valuable opportunity for many children, so that there is no pressure to immediately trust a new adult or immediately adapt to a new environment. We offer this experience whenever we can — our goal is for both you and your child to be excited to go to school on their first day!

Many children are ready to begin our Toddler Community program when they are confidently walking (no longer needing any assistance to walk long or short distances) and able to remain awake throughout the 4 hour morning (have outgrown their morning nap need).

Many children are ready to begin our Children’s House program when they are using the toilet independently, past their oral phase (no longer mouthing items), able to follow 2 step directions (i.e. put your backpack away and wash your hands), can separate from a parent without prolonged distress, can express feelings and needs verbally, and are beginning to learn to dress/undress independently (i.e. coat, shoes, pants).

Many children are ready for the Lower Elementary program when they are able to work independently or with a small group of peers for at least 30 minutes, when they can complete a task from start to finish, can follow 3+ step directions, and are independent with self-care and in navigating social interactions. Children showing readiness can recognize numbers and letter symbols, can read simple books, understand quantity, and are performing or beginning to understand mathematical operations.