Program
We follow the Montessori three-year program, providing the structure and materials for every child to develop at their own pace and according to their interests.  Beginning with Sensorial and Practical Life exercises in the first year, each student is free to explore, while also learning about the importance of community in the classroom and the larger world.  As the students progress they are introduced to more complex practical life skills as well as music, art, geography, and writing and blending sounds.  In the third year, children will be encouraged to use their independence as leaders and caretakers in the school. Their places in the community have evolved from the youngest in need of assistance to the older more experienced roles.

The skills from previous years have now naturally evolved into reading, writing and mathematics. Experiences in the natural world have led to botany, natural sciences and zoology. Listening to music and singing has transformed into playing music and musical theory. Their own natural rates of absorption and curiosity will lead these young minds through a strong base of education and which will serve them well in the years to come.

​Indoor Classroom
Our classroom is designed for the children to inhabit in comfort and accessibility. Think of a world for people three feet tall. As objects are within reach, children can express their independence and self-care at meals, dressing, in the bathroom, and with their chosen works. An ideal setting exists for children to achieve great things and exclaim, "I did it myself!".

Our accompanying materials are designed to work with our environment. Using natural materials and many practical life objects, promotes learning and discovery as a daily occurrence and an enticing challenge.

Outdoor Classroom
Our location in picturesque Charlevoix, Michigan affords us the abundance of natural beauty that nature and her changing seasons offer. Our backyard is home to birds and wildlife and joins with our nature trail through a white birch and pine forest. This setting alone invites discovery and exploration to feed young minds.  


We invite you and your child to come and join us at the Charlevoix Childrens House.