Guidepost Montessori at Birmingham Kindergarten

There are many schools in Birmingham that offer kindergarten. It can be hard to find the right one for your child. Guidepost Montessori kindergarten programs allow parents to give their children a solid education that encourages independence, responsibility, and active learning.

We have provided a complete list of everything you need to know about Guidepost Montessori kindergarten.

four children in a birmingham guidepost montessori kindergarten classroom

What is Montessori?

Montessori Method emphasizes individual attention and hands-on learning. Montessori classrooms allow children to freely move and select their activities within the limits of the teacher.

It has been proven to increase academic achievement, creativity, and social and emotional development. It's used in all schools, public and private, as well as charter schools.

photo of maria montessori

Who was Maria Montessori?

Maria Montessori was an Italian physician and educator who developed the Montessori Method of education. This method is based on the principle that children have a natural desire to learn. This educational approach emphasizes independence, self-direction, and collaboration among students.

children performing beaker experiment in birmingham montessori kindergarten science class

What are the benefits of a Montessori program?

A Montessori education has many benefits.

Many Montessori kindergartens have lower teacher-to student ratios. This allows for more individual attention and allows each child the opportunity to move at their own pace.

They emphasize practical learning experiences. Montessori children have the chance to explore and discover.

guide at guidepost montessori pointing to number with student

What is a Montessori classroom environment like?

A Montessori classroom is a unique learning environment, typically designed to promote independence and hands-on learning. Materials and activities are often self-directed, allowing children to work at their own pace.

child at guidepost montessori holding a plate to clean

What is practical life in Montessori?

Practical life activities are an important part of the Montessori curriculum. They help children develop practical skills, such as how to care for themselves and their environment.

These activities also promote concentration, coordination, and independence.

children at guidepost montessori sweeping and placing trash into can

Some practical life activities may include:

  • Caring for plants
  • Washing dishes
  • Dusting
  • Sweeping
  • Mopping
  • Setting the table
  • Folding towels
  • Making beds
  • Putting away groceries
  • Cooking simple meals

Some common features of Montessori classrooms include:

  • Mixed age groups: In a Montessori classroom, children of different ages learn together. This helps promote social skills and allows older children to serve as mentors to younger students.
  • Individualized learning: Because each child learns at his or her own pace, materials and activities
guidepost montessori student sitting at table

Benefits of mixed-age groups in a Montessori environment:

  • Mixed-age Montessori classrooms were designed on the basis that children of different ages learn best together. This creates an environment in which children from different ages can learn from one another and vice versa.
  • Mixed-age classrooms provide opportunities for social and emotional growth as children interact with peers of different ages. Mixed-age Montessori has many benefits for both teachers and children.
guidepost montessori guide and students holding hands playing outside

Other benefits of mixed-age Montessori classrooms include:

  • Children learn at their own pace in mixed-age classrooms. This allows children to take more time to learn a skill or concept without being pressured by their teachers or classmates.
  • Children learn from one another: Mixed-age classrooms have many great benefits. They allow children to learn from one another. Children can look up and learn from older siblings, and older children can feel fulfilled by helping their younger peers.
  • Classrooms feel more like real life. We interact with people of all ages every day in real life. Children can practice important social skills in mixed-age classrooms.
children at guidepost montessori sitting in a row smiling

How do Montessori teachers meet the needs of learners at different levels?

Montessori teachers are specially trained to cater for students of all levels. They employ a variety of methods to evaluate each child's capabilities and adapt their instruction accordingly. Each child can move at his/her own pace, reaching his or her maximum potential.

Montessori teachers are experts at creating differentiated curriculum so that all students have access to the material regardless of their ability.

Meet Our School Team

Assistant Head of School

Jonysia (Nisi) Kilgore

Lead Guide, Children's House

Shantal Nurse

Lead Guide, Young Toddler

Ashlee Martin

How is Montessori different from traditional kindergarten?

Montessori kindergartens are different from traditional kindergartens in a few key ways.

In a Montessori kindergarten, children are given the opportunity to explore the world around them at their own pace.

Traditional kindergartens, on the other hand, often focus on academic skills such as reading and math. While these skills are important, Montessori believes that kindergarten children should be able to learn about the world around them in their own way and at their own pace.

Here are a few other ways in which a Montessori kindergarten differs from a traditional kindergarten:

  • The teacher-to-student ratio is usually lower in this class. This allows for more individual attention and allows each child the freedom to move at their own pace in Montessori classroom.
  • This method emphasizes hands-on learning. Montessori materials are used to teach children how to explore and discover.
  • This kindergarten has a longer school day than traditional kindergartens. This gives you more time to do independent work and play.
  • There is often no traditional grading system.
  • Montessori kindergarten years could have breaks in the fall or winter.

What program would my child be in?

Kindergarten-aged children would most likely be enrolled in the Children's House Program. You will meet with your child's educator to determine which program and class they are best suited for.

What is Children's House in Montessori?

Children's House is one of the levels or programs within the Montessori educational system. Typically students in Children's House range in age from 4-6 years old.

child at guidepost montessori counting on the floor

How can I find a great Montessori kindergarten in Birmingham?

The Austin area has many excellent Montessori kindergarten schools. The American Montessori Society website is a good place to begin your search. The website of the Association for Montessori International is another great resource.

You can ask your family and friends if they know of any Montessori kindergartens that are great in the area. Guidepost has a variety of schools and programs available in Austin and the surrounding areas that can be tailored to different learning styles and ages.

My child is enrolled in a public school kindergarten, but I'm interested in Montessori. Is it too late to switch?

It's not too late to switch! As long as we don't have a waitlist, Guidepost Montessori can accept additional students. Contact us today to get the process started.

Hear what Guidepost Montessori at Birmingham parents are saying on Yelp!

Jamie A.

"We love Guidepost Montessori! Our 4-year-old has thrived there over the past year. We love the independent learning model. The classrooms are clean and constructive to learning.

The location is great, they take frequent walks to LP zoo! The teachers are the best and the staff is all amazing. Can't say enough positive things about Guidepost Montessori!"

Asena U.

"We love this place. The staff and teachers are truly kind, knowledgeable and loving. We send our 5 month old and 2 year old. They learn a new skill every day and we are always notified with their progression. Teachers explain what they are trying to achieve and ask our support.

I have seen teachers being kind, genuine, patient with kids all the time. They select truly the best teachers."

I'm not sure my child is ready for kindergarten. Should I wait a year or consider a different educational option?

There is no one answer to this question. Every child is different and will be ready for kindergarten at different times. Some children may be ready for kindergarten at age 4, while others may not be ready until age 6.

If you are unsure if your child is ready for kindergarten, it is best to consult with your child's pediatrician or an educational specialist.

Montessori kindergartens often have lower teacher-to-student ratios, which allows for more individualized attention and allows each child to progress at their own pace. They also place an emphasis on hands-on learning experiences.

Children in a Montessori kindergarten are given the opportunity to learn through exploration and discovery. These factors may make Montessori a better choice.

Montessori kindergartens often have lower teacher-to-student ratios, which allows for more individualized attention and allows each child to progress at their own pace. They also place an emphasis on hands-on learning experiences.

Children in a Montessori kindergarten are given the opportunity to learn through exploration and discovery. These factors may make Montessori a better choice.

child at guidepost montessori building with colorful blocks at a table

I've heard Montessori programs are expensive. Is this true?

Most people believe that attending a Montessori school is quite expensive. While it is true that some can be costly, there are many affordable options available. It's important to do your research and find a school that fits both your budget and your child’s needs.

Guidepost Montessori programs are not typically funded by public tax dollars like traditional schools, so they often rely on tuition and private donations to operate.

This means that the cost of a Montessori school can vary greatly from one school to the next. Some schools may offer scholarships or financial aid to families who qualify, so be sure to ask about this when you are researching schools.

What is Guidepost Montessori?

Guidepost Montessori has a dedicated team of Montessori educators, advocates and leaders, who are passionate about spreading the power of the Montessori movement.

We are committed to providing each child with an individualized education in a nurturing environment that is designed to promote academic excellence, personal growth and social responsibility.

Our highly trained teachers guide children through the Montessori curriculum using hands-on materials and a variety of engaging activities.

What makes Guidepost different from other Montessori programs?

We are unique in our approach to education, blending the best of both Montessori and traditional methods. Our classrooms are carefully designed to promote independence, encourage exploration and allow for individualized instruction. We also offer a number of enrichment programs, such as art, music and foreign language, which are not typically found in other schools.

Guidepost Montessori is the perfect choice for families looking for a cutting-edge, yet well-rounded education for their children. Our experienced teachers are dedicated to helping each child reach his or her full potential. Contact us today to learn more about our programs.


I'm interested in learning more about Montessori. Where can I go?

If you're interested in Montessori vs kindergarten specifically, we recommend reading this post where we compare and contrast both.


The Guidepost Parenting blog also has a wealth of information. You can also sign up for more information about our Austin, TX Guidepost Montessori schools by completing the form below.

Common Questions Asked About Our Guidepost Montessori at Birmingham's Kindergarten Program:

  • Which is correct: kindergarten or kindergarden?

    The correct spelling of the word is kindergarten in English. Kindergarten is commonly misspelled as “kindergarden”. Regardless of the world location, this is an incorrect spelling.

  • Why is it called a kindergarten?
  • What is a kindergartener's age?
  • Is 7 old for kindergarten?
  • What age is first grade?
  • What ages are nursery?

Areas Near Our Birmingham Kindergarten School In Alabama

  • Brook Highland
  • Chelsea
  • Hoover
  • Indian Springs Village
  • Meadowbrook
  • Shoal Creek

Other Programs And Information About Guidepost Montessori at Birmingham: