Sewickley Montessori guides children to follow their natural human tendencies and grow in a supportive environment that meets their developmental needs. We foster children’s independence, curiosity, and love of learning, helping them grow to their full potential. We nurture the whole child—physically, socially, emotionally, and cognitively.
In a thoughtfully prepared environment, children grow while developing a lifelong love of learning. Classrooms are calm, respectful, beautiful, and welcoming environments. Through kindness, respect, and hard work, Sewickley Montessori supports and provides an exceptional school experience, creating lifelong learners and global citizens by following the principles of Montessori education.
Learning Through Purposeful Work
Children engage in hands-on, self-directed learning using Montessori materials that invite exploration in Practical Life, Sensorial, Language, Mathematics, and Cultural areas. Each child progresses at their own pace, led by Montessori-trained Guides who support individual growth and curiosity.
Sewickley Montessori children participate in enrichment activities, including music, art, Spanish, yoga, body movement, and swimming at the YMCA. Offerings vary by season and program availability.
Montessori Programs in Sewickley
Montessori Toddler Programs (Ages 18–36 Months)
The Montessori Toddler program offers a calm, gentle, and beautiful introduction to learning for children ages 18 to 36 months. In a nurturing, thoughtfully prepared environment, toddlers build independence, coordination, and confidence through purposeful play and exploration. Guides support each child at their own pace, encouraging curiosity, early language, and social development. Predictable routines provide comfort, while opportunities for movement and discovery foster self-confidence and respect for others.
Montessori Children’s House with Accredited Kindergarten (Ages 3–6 Years)
The Children’s House is the foundation of Montessori education, blending preschool and kindergarten into one dynamic, mixed-age classroom. Children explore Practical Life, Sensorial, Language, Mathematics, and Cultural areas using Montessori materials that invite active learning. In this calm and purposeful setting, children develop concentration, confidence, and a love of learning. The mixed-age group encourages younger children to learn from older peers, while older children build leadership and empathy through mentorship. Trained Guides support the children’s overall development and guide them through the classroom with respect, kindness, and a thorough understanding of child development.
The Accredited Montessori Kindergarten is the capstone year of the Children’s House. Kindergarten-aged children participate in Extended Day with advanced lessons and enrichment activities designed for deeper exploration. In this small-group setting, children strengthen academic and social skills while building independence, inner discipline, and a deep love of learning.
Wrap Around Care (Ages 3-6 Years)
Early and Late Wrap Around Care extends the Montessori experience beyond classroom hours, offering flexible before- and after-school options for enrolled students. Children enjoy supervised play, creative activities, and outdoor time in a relaxed environment that continues the Montessori emphasis on independence, choice, and respect. Availability may vary by season and enrollment.
Assessments and Support
Montessori classrooms are led by Montessori-trained Guides who design the prepared environment and guide each child with sensitivity to their needs. Children benefit from freedom within limits—gaining independence, focus, and a lasting love of learning. Teachers use observation-based assessments to document each child’s progress and share insights on readiness, independence, and growth. These assessments are not tests—they celebrate milestones, identify needs early, and ensure families are true partners in every child’s development.
The YMCA Difference
- Licensed by the PA Department of Human Services
- Participants in the Keystone STARS quality enhancement program
- Praesidium Accredited for child safety and abuse prevention
- YMCA character values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility
Learn More
Sewickley Montessori programs are offered in half-day and full-day formats. Enrollment is for the full week, Monday through Friday. Some Montessori programs run throughout the year, while others only run during the school year.
Enrollment is based on availability, and families may enroll or join the waitlist depending on space. Learn more about program hours, rates, and financial assistance.
Find answers to child care frequently asked questions, or browse our child care family resources for additional details.
For more information, contact us in Sewickley Valley YMCA Early Child Development.