The Montessori approach is based on the findings of child development specialist Dr. Maria Montessori. Although conceived over 100 years ago, Dr. Montessori’s approach is completely aligned with the findings of current child development research. According to her, children 'develop' in three-year cycles — birth to age 3, age 3 to 6, and age 6 to 9.

To create an educational environment sensitive to those cycles, our programs are structured around these age groups, based on the belief that learning is a 360-degree process where children learn both from their teachers and each other. Younger children look to the older ones as role models, and the self-esteem of older children grows as they become mentors and leaders in the classroom. At the conclusion of each year, the oldest third of the class moves on to the next level, giving children the opportunity to grow together and develop a strong sense of community, an arrangement that gives all children the opportunity to serve as classroom leaders at some point during the three-year cycle.

A typical class at Acorn Montessori School consists of approximately 24 children, with at least one trained Montessori (head) teacher and one or two assistant teachers.

Acorn Montessori is more than a school; it is a learning and growing community committed to bringing young people together from a broad spectrum of ethnic, cultural, and religious backgrounds.

To join this community, we encourage you to download an application or contact us at 908.730.8986 or [email protected] to arrange a tour of our beautiful five-acre campus. Tours can be scheduled Monday to Friday between the hours of 9:00am and 2:00pm and take approximately 45 minutes. As part of the application process, we will also arrange for an additional visit for your child to visit one of our classrooms during normal school hours for approximately 30 minutes.

Montessori's educational approach has changed the learning process throughout the world. There are approximately 22,000 Montessori schools worldwide. Montessori schools teach children from as early has birth to 18 years old when children become adults.

There are different levels of Montessori development. The schools we list provide different levels and practices of the Montessori educational system/approach. Call the phone number listed for more information and/or to set up an appointment to visit the school.