Primary Program

A Love for Learning
(2.5- 6 years)

A Foundation for Independence and Lifelong Learning

"Let me do it!" is a familiar refrain of young children eager to assert their independence. At our Montessori Primary Program, we embrace this natural drive by providing an environment that nurtures exploration, confidence, and a love of learning. Our scientifically prepared classrooms are designed to support children’s developmental needs, fostering curiosity and self-motivation while respecting their innate desire to take an active role in their education.


An Individualized Approach to Learning

Designed for children in preschool and kindergarten (ages 2.5 to 6), our Montessori curriculum is highly individualized to support each child’s physical, social, and emotional growth. Unlike traditional classrooms with a one-size-fits-all approach, our Montessori guides carefully observe each child’s unique needs and interests. They introduce engaging, hands-on learning experiences at just the right moment, ensuring each child progresses at their own pace and discovers the joy of mastering new skills.


Developing Confidence, Compassion, and Competence

In our mixed-age Children's House community, young learners become confident, capable, and compassionate individuals. They develop essential life skills as they care for themselves and their environment. Through daily interactions, they cultivate respect for their own work and the efforts of others, learning from and inspiring their peers.

Academically, our students build a strong foundation in language, mathematics, science, and cultural studies. They expand their vocabulary with precise, scientific language and explore the world through hands-on discovery. Reading is introduced through a carefully designed progression, and mathematical concepts—including addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division—are explored using tactile, didactic materials that naturally guide children toward abstract thinking.


Creativity is also a vital part of our curriculum. Children engage in artistic and musical exploration through drawing, painting, sewing, singing, and dancing, while also learning about their own culture and the cultures of the world.


The Transformative Montessori Kindergarten Year

As children advance in our program, their work becomes increasingly complex and impressive. The final year of the Primary Program—the Montessori Kindergarten year—is a transformative experience. During this "magical" year, children experience a surge in competency, developing advanced skills in reading and mathematics that often surpass traditional expectations.

Beyond academics, this final year offers a unique opportunity for leadership. Older students take on mentorship roles, guiding younger peers and fostering a classroom culture of curiosity, kindness, and hard work. Through these experiences, they build social-emotional skills that prepare them for success in our Elementary Program and beyond.


At our Montessori school, we believe in nurturing independent, confident, and compassionate learners. By respecting each child’s natural development and encouraging active exploration, we lay the foundation for a lifelong love of learning.

Program Details


We offer three Primary classrooms for preschool and kindergarten aged children at Aquinas Montessori School, located near George Washington’s Mount Vernon estate, and two more at Old Town Montessori School in the heart of Old Town Alexandria.


Our flexible options allow for a predictable routine for students and their families.


For children under five, we provide flexible scheduling options. :

  • Some 3 and 4 year olds attend from 8:30 AM to 11:45 AM.
  • Some 3 and 4 year olds take an afternoon nap in our designated napping room.
  • Other 3 and 4 year olds have a rest period before continuing their Montessori work until 3:00 PM.


Most of our 5 year olds and all of our kindergarten students attend the Montessori program from 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM.


All programs meet 5 days a week


We also offer extended care options:

  • Before-school care is available from 7:30 to 8:30 AM at our Aquinas campus only.
  • After-school care is available until 6:00 PM at both campuses for children of all ages.


Our school year begins the Tuesday after Labor Day and runs through late May or early June.

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