Cedar Creek Montessori School - Helping Children Explore Their World

Commonly Asked Questions

What if my child is still in diapers?
Cedar Creek Montessori accepts children in diapers. We believe children should learn to use the toilet when they are physically and emotionally ready. Until that time, the parent supplies disposable diapers. About every two hours, teachers change diapers and give bathroom reminders as needed.

How long is nap? What if my child won't sleep?
Nap-time is two hours long, from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. Children who wake early may quietly play. Children are not required to sleep, but must at least rest quietly during nap time. Children who are older, developmentally mature, and have outgrown their need for a nap still rest quietly on a mat for 3/4 of an hour, then they go to a one-hour Nature Studies class.

Do you provide breakfast for the children?
No, but parents are welcome to bring a breakfast for the child to eat at school up until 8:30 a.m. We do offer a healthy snack at 10:00 a.m. and again at 3:00 p.m. Lunches are provided by the parents.

Do you take the children on field trips?
During the summer, the teachers walk the children to Cedar-Rose Park, a park two blocks away. We no longer go on field trips that require transportation by car because of insurance issues; also, due to privacy issues, we can no longer assure that parent drivers have safe driving records. Therefore, we are limited to trips within walking distance.

What happens if a child hits another child?
We stress positive means to teach conflict resolution. Children are taught to verbally express what they want or need and to talk through mutually acceptable solutions to problems. A two or three minute "time-out" may be given to a child as a consequence for intentionally hurting another child.

What kind of parent involvement is there at the school?
We have a parent orientation meeting in September, family potlucks in the fall and winter, and parent "work days" in the fall and spring. Parents are encouraged to share their own expertise, culture or hobby with the children in a class presentation, or to contribute in other ways. Each family is asked to contribute at least six hours per year of some kind of service to the school.

Once my child is enrolled, could I observe her in the classroom?
Cedar Creek Montessori School has an open door policy. Parents are welcome to visit, anytime, any day, although advance notice is appreciated.

If I enroll my child for 3 days/week, could I later switch to 5 days/week in the middle of the year?
Only if there is space available. We do our best to accommodate the needs of individual families without over-enrolling.

Is there a time which children must be brought to school?
Children should be at school by 9:30 a.m., which is when the Montessori class begins. Of course, exceptions are always made for doctor appointments, visiting grandparents, etc.