Policies and Procedures

Center Philosophy, Program, Facilities

Little Mountain Montessori provides a preschool program that is based on the Montessori philosophy.  Our mission is to

* excite children about the world around them

* create a life long love for learning

* encourage independence while building community and taking care of each other

* foster mutual respect between children and adults

Our Program runs Monday - Friday, 7:45am to 6:00pm year round.  We ask that all preschool and toddler students arrive to school by 8:30 most mornings aside from special events.  We provide annual calendars of closure dates that generally follow the Seattle Public Schools, including early closures on the first Wednesday of some months.  Please check your calendar to be sure of closure dates. 

Classroom ratios are maintain at all times and are as follows:

Preschool: 10:1 

Toddler: 7:1

Infant: 4:1 

We make intentions to keep better ratios during the majority of the day.  Most of our classrooms are overstaffed.  

Children with special or specific needs will be accommodated and assisted as needed.  

Family engagement and parent partnership is a key part of our program.  We provide “The Month Ahead” emails to give reminders, and talk about what to expect in the coming month.   Annual calendars are provided so that families can plan ahead and be aware of special events and closures.  We rely on families to be attentive to the program so that we can focus on the daily needs of the children.  Your partnership and communication helps us to meet your needs and ensures we are doing all we can to give your child the best preschool experience possible.  When you have questions or concerns please bring them to us.  Whether to Hannah or to your child’s lead teacher.  We can only address things that are brought to our attention and our goal is to have happy, safe and loved children and families.  

Enrollment and Admission Requirements

We believe that the Montessori philosophy is the best means for educating children.  That being said, aspects may not be for everyone.  Because we offer a unique method, we require that parents and guardians meet the director and take a tour of the school or attend an open house prior to filling out a waitlist application or enrolling in the program.  Tours can be scheduled by email.

Upon enrollment you will be required to complete a mound of paperwork for your child.  Included in that mound are the following, immunization certificate, application for enrollment, registration form, childcare agreement, walking field trip and picture consent, parental contact information, and a disclaimer stating that you understand our disaster policy, health policy, pet policy, and medication management policy.  The complete disaster and health policy is available to read in the lobby.  There is a summarized version included in our handbook.  You can discuss any thoughts or questions with Hannah.

It is required of us by DCYF to keep your child’s file up to date.  Please keep immunization records current.  To best keep your child safe while at school it is important that you keep all contact information current and up to date.  Please update your approved pick up with names and phone numbers regularly.  It is important that we have at least one other person to contact in the event we cannot get ahold of you.  If you have no one you are comfortable listing please talk with Hannah directly.  

Child’s files are kept in a locked file cabinet in the office.  Children’s files are only accessible to the parent/guardian of the child, Lead Teachers or the office staff at Little Mountain Montessori or any authorized person by parent/guardian or legal bodies with proper and relevant jurisdiction.

Tuition Guidelines

Tuition for the 2025-2026  school year is as follows:

Preschool - $2580

Toddler - $2995

Infant - $3520

Sibling discount rates - 3%  applied to the oldest student 

Infant - $3415

Toddler - $2905

Preschool - $2503

Tuition is due on the 1st of every month for the upcoming month.  If tuition is not paid by the 4th there will an additional late fee of $45.  If tuition is not paid within the calendar month your child will not be allowed back at school until tuition and late fee is paid.  Additionally, we may fill your spot if tuition goes unpaid after one calendar month. 

Full month tuition is always due, regardless of closures dates, sick or vacation days or any other reason.  If you decide to leave the school we ask for a minimum of two months notice. 

When your child transitions from a younger room to the next - from infant to toddler or toddler to preschool -  your child’s lead teacher will help explain the visits and timing for their move.  Transition visits will happen at the end of the month. Your child will begin a new month in a new classroom.  Whichever room your child starts in the month in is the tuition due for that month.  

The Daily Stuff

Drop off time

For preschool or toddler students

Routine is a crucial part of a child’s success.  A constant morning routine and arriving to school at a consistent time allows for your child and our program to be the most enjoyable and effective. We ask that you have your child arrive between 7:45 and 8:30am every morning.  Exceptions for doctors appointments or special events.

If you are dropping off outside the normal window please plan to meet your child’s class wherever they are ie- playground or playfield.  

Please don’t pick up or drop off during nap time hours, generally, 12:30 - 2:45.  Except the preschool Extended day preschool group.

Breakfast at school

You are welcome to bring breakfast for your child before 8:30.  Please remember our nut policy, 

Please do not bring peanuts, pistachios, cashews, walnuts, or pecans.  Bring food in containers labeled with your child’s name/initials. 

**Coconut is okay**  

Sign in & Sign out

When you drop your child off in the morning and pick them up in the evening you are required to sign them in and out of the school.  We use Brightwheel to check children in and out.  There is QR code to scan at pick up and drop off.  According to DCYF a parent, guardian, or other authorized person is required to sign the child in and out with a full signature and time of respective pick up or drop off.  If you have any additional information about the person or time of pick up that day please message your classroom teacher on Brightwheel. 

In addition, if the child is leaving and returning any time during the day, e.g. a doctor’s appointment, they must be signed out upon leaving and back in upon return. 

Late Pick-Up Policy

We understand that from time to time children will be picked up late.  In the circumstance that you will be late please give the school a call or email and let us know an expected pick up time.  We allow a 5 minute grace period, if you arrive within the 5 minute period no money is owed.  If you arrive after the 5 minute window you will be charged for the initial 5 minutes plus $1 per minute after that.  Payment is due upon pick up and should be paid to the staff person with your child at the time of pick up.

If late pick ups persist late fees can be doubled on Hannah’s discretion.  Please be considerate that we close at 6pm.  Picking up constantly between 6:00 and 6:05 can result in fees at Hannah’s discretion.  

Snow Policy

Our snow policy follows the Seattle Public Schools for the first day of snow.  If subsequent days are snowy we will send an email with our plan.

Open Door Policy

We have an open door policy.  Parents and guardians are welcome anytime the school is open.    

Our facilities are designed to be most appealing to the children and invite them to feel ownership over their classroom, school, and playground.  As such, our shelves, tables, and chairs are all sized for the children.  Please respect that this is the children’s space and when entering do so in a quiet, unobtrusive manner.  Children learn through modeling, please don't sit on tables or counter tops.  You are welcome to join your child by sitting in a chair or on the floor.  If, while you are visiting you have any questions for your child’s teacher, please write them down and ask to speak with them later.  

Child Abuse and Reporting Laws

As a licensed childcare facility we are state mandated reporters of child abuse or neglect.  If we suspect any abuse: sexual, physical, or emotional, or any type of neglect we will document and report our concerns to Child Protective Services.  

Behavior Management and Discipline

In a Montessori environment we use redirection as our main mode of behavior management.  Whenever possible we offer the children choices that allow them to meet whatever physical or emotional need they have while keeping everyone safe.  If a child continues unsafe or disruptive behavior they will be asked to calm their bodies in a quiet area of the classroom.  A teacher will follow up with a child once they have calmed down and are asking or showing signs of being ready to re-join the classroom.  

Montessori also teaches the Peace Curriculum.  This is a specific part of the Montessori Method that teaches conflict resolution.  The children learn about this process through practicing at circles, watching their peers and getting guidance from a teacher.  If you are curious to know more about the Peace Curriculum please talk with Hannah, Aislinn or your child’s lead teacher. 

Expulsion or disenrollement of a child would only result after exhaustive efforts on our part to work with them and their parent/guardian.  If a situation is reached where we feel we can no longer be of help to the child, or their parent/guardian is not communicative or willing to partner with us we would have to ask the family to move on.  Termination of services could be considered if needed.  Keeping the priority of the school as a whole, expulsion could be executed immediately if deemed necessary by the director.  We require two months of notice and tuition due if a parent/guardian wishes to withdrawal their student from the program.  

At no time will any form of corporal punishment be acceptable.

Religious and Cultural Activities

At Little Mountain Montessori we respect and encourage diversity in all areas.  If your family has a religious  or cultural practice that can be shared by a parent or family member please let us know so we can enrich all of our lives by learning about each others beliefs.  Further, we will support your child’s faith in the classroom consistent with state and federal laws. 

We have many students who are bilingual or even trilingual .  We love working with dual language learners.  If your child speaks multiple languages you are welcome here and will be supported. 

We celebrate Valentines’ Day with a card exchange and Halloween with costumes at school and a Halloween Hoopla party for all children and families.  Both events are optional for those who feel like participating.  Little Mountain Montessori doesn’t celebrate any other holiday.  

Birthday Celebrations at Little Mountain… are a Big Deal!

To celebrate birthdays we do a Birthday Circle.  Parents and family members are invited to attend in the the preschool classrooms only.  Most often Birthday Circle happens on or near your child’s actual birthday.  We sing a birthday song,  “The Earth goes Around the Sun” and you and your child get to share about each year of their life so far.  We encourage you to make a small picture board with one or two pictures from each year of their life that they can show their friends.  Then if you like, you can bring in a small (nut free) treat for them to share with the class.  Little fruit cups are wonderful, small cupcakes are always a hit...  small cookies..  :)  The class will enjoy the birthday treat later in the day. 

Please reach out your child’s lead teacher to schedule their birthday circle.  Please let your lead teacher know if you do not want your child’s birthday celebrated.  

Sick Child Policy

Children must be excluded from childcare, per the Department of Early Learning WAC code 170-295-3030, when the following symptoms are present:

*Diarrhea: three or more watery stools or one bloody stool within twenty-four hours

*Vomiting: two or more times within twenty-four hours

*Open or oozing sores, unless properly covered with cloths or bandages

*For suspected communicable skin infection such as impetigo, bacterial pinkeye, and scabies:     

child may return twenty-four hours after starting antibiotic treatment

*Lice or nits

*Fever of 100 degrees Fahrenheit or higher and who also have one or more of the 

following: earache, headache, sore throat, rash, or fatigue that prevents participation in regular activities.

In an effort to prevent the spread of illness and relapse of illness we ask the children be kept at home for 24 hours after diarrhea, vomiting, or a fever of 100 has subsided without the use of medication.  

Children (or staff) who have a reportable disease may not be in attendance unless approved by a doctor.

In the event that your child has been exposed to an infectious disease or parasite we will notify you via posted notification or email.

Covid-19 Policy 

Please see attached update.  Covid-19 responses and recommendations change frequently and we will adjust according.  Any changes will be communicated via email.

Injury Policy 

We do our best to keep children safe and happy at school, but from time to time children get injured.  We do not carry student accident insurance and our insurance company would like you to be notified as such.  If your child sustains an injury at school and has to be treated by a medical professional Little Mountain Montessori cannot be held financially responsible for any medical costs.  By signing the attached waiver that you have read and understand the handbook you are agreeing to this statement.  

Medication Management 

You must give written consent before we can give your child any medication.  That includes topical treatments like lotions, chapstick or baby wipes.    

If your child needs medication that is prescribed by a health care professional we will provide you a form that is good for the duration of that specific medication.  

Written parental consent is also required for over the counter medications such as antihistamines, non-aspirin fever reducers/pain relievers, non-narcotic cough suppressant, decongestants, ointment or lotions intended to reduce or stop itching or dry skin, diaper ointment and non talc powders that are intended only for diaper area, sunscreen or hand sanitizers.  Any other over the counter medication than the ones listed above must be accompanied by written directions from a health care provider.  

The Department of Early Learning also require we have written consent from a health care authority before we can provide vitamins, herbal supplements, or fluoride.   

Your child can take their own medication if we have a written statement from you requesting they take their own medication and have a written statement from a health care provider that the child is physically and mentally capable of doing so.  We will observe and document that the medication was taken.

If your child needs an inhaler, nebulizer, epi-pen, or has any other medical need we may ask for a demonstration from you so that we can be most effective and helpful to your child and their needs.  

Sunscreen 

If you would like us to apply sunscreen to your child we will do that once a day between 3 - 4 pm for the months of May - September as needed based on the weather.  Bring a sunscreen of your choice that is either stick or cream (no spay sunscreens of any kind) and fill out the required form.  We will send the sunscreen home at the end of September.  

Medical Emergencies

In the event that an injury is life-threatening we will take the following steps:

1.  Call “911”

2.  Stabilize the child to the best of our abilities - all staff are certified in first aid & CPR

3.  Notify you.  If you cannot be reached we will continue down your list of emergency contacts until we reach someone, and then continue to try and reach you.

If your child has to be taken to the hospital and you are not able to be with them when they go, we will do our best to send a staff person with them and have them stay until you or one of your emergency contacts arrive.  We will also send their “Emergency Contact & Information” form, immunization histories, and any other pertinent health information with them.    

Immunizations

For the health and well being of everyone at Little Mountain Montessori we require that children in our care be immunized.  The Department of Early Learning requires that we keep an up to date log of each child’s vaccinations and that those vaccinations be kept to date as suggested by the state board of health.

Disaster Preparedness Plans

Fire

In the event that there is a fire the lead teacher will instruct the children to grab their shoes and line up either on the sticky wall or next to the cubbies depending on the location of the fire, while getting the emergency backpack and cell phone.  The lead teacher will then escort the children to the nearest exit.  The assistant teacher in the room will check for children who may be hiding in places like cubbies, the bathroom, kitchen, closet or hallway and get the ipad. 

Upon exiting the building the lead teacher and children will immediately proceed to the southwest corner of the parking lot which is our designated emergency area and wait for the assistant teacher. and/or director and further instruction if needed.  The emergency area is more than 50 feet from the back of the school.

We will stay in the emergency meeting area until children are picked up by an adult on their approved pick up list.    

Earthquake

If an earthquake occurs during school hours teachers and students will drop, cover, and shelter under tables away from windows when possible.  Once shaking stops children will be instructed to stay under cover while teachers and director assess the situation.  

*Teachers and Director will decide whether to evacuate or stay inside

*If there is no immediate need to evacuate we will check children and staff for injuries and give first aid if needed. 

*If utilities need to be shut off we will do so

Each child needs to bring an earthquake kit on site that should have snacks for a couple days in the event that parents/guardians or emergency contacts are unable to pick up their children.  

Please prepare and bring an earthquake kit for your child.. some helpful guidelines;

-A gallon zip lock bag with your child’s name on the outside

-Mylar blanket

-Food items, i.e. snack bars, fruit/veggie pouches (no nuts)

-A family photo and a letter

-Flash light

Little Mountain Montessori will maintain an emergency supply of food, water and first aid supplies for staff and students.

Plan for Evacuation

In the event that an evacuation is required we will follow the above procedure to exit the building.  Once we are safely gathered in our evacuation area a staff person will immediately conduct a head count, and double check against Brightwheel.  If needed we will bring our Earthquake kits and other supplies.  

Any child who needs extra help with evacuating, be it physical or emotional will be partnered up with a teacher.  

Parents will be able to reach us via email, or Brightwheel and if possible we will check phone messages and make phone calls to notify parents of our status.  We plan to shelter in place as long as possible.  If we have to leave the school grounds we will send an email and make phone calls if possible.  Our off site emergency back up meeting place is the corner of 16th and Bertona at the main entrance to the Seattle Storm facility.  If that is not safe or otherwise unavailable our secondary offsite meeting place is the Interbay playfield which is just across Dravus St on 17th Ave W and W Barrett St.

Toileting 

Infants (3 months - 18 months)

The infant room staff talk the babies through diaper changing and help create as much body and potty awareness as possible.  

Toddlers (18 months - 2 1/2 years)

While your child is in the toddler room they will start the long road of toilet training.  This process will start with a conversation between you and your child’s lead teacher.  We recommend the book, “Oh Crap, Potty Training” to help align with our style and support you at home.   

Preschool (2 1/2 years - 6 years)

Our preschool program serves children ages  2 1/2 to 5 years old.  We require that children are in underwear while awake at home and at school.  Diapers at nap are totally okay!  Teachers will reach out when they think dropping the nap diaper is appropriate and you will make the decision with them.  Accidents happen and are an expected part of the learning process.   When accidents happen our staff will supervise, make suggestions, and help the child to clean themselves and change into clean clothes.  

If your child demonstrates a need or expresses the want for privacy while using the bathroom we will provide that for them while keeping them within auditory range of a staff person.

Field Trips

At Little Mountain Montessori we will take both local walking outings and larger field trips that will require us to take public transportation or charter a school bus.  For walking outings we have a blanket authorization statement to be signed for each child upon enrollment.  We include plans for outings on our monthly lesson plans.  For larger trips that require public or private transportation we will ask for individual permission slips.  

Guidelines on Food Brought From Home

You may bring a breakfast for your child before 8:30am.  Please omit any nuts from any food you bring to school.  

For toddler and preschool - At Little Mountain Montessori we provide a morning and afternoon snack as well as a daily catered lunch.  Menus will be posted monthly. On special occasion like birthdays, sharing days, or holidays children can bring in special snacks.  We are a peanut and nut free facility. 

Our Classrooms Daily Schedules & Notes 

Kulshan preschool Daily Schedule

Morning

7:45-8:30   Drop offs, breakfast from home, work time

8:30-10:30 Work time/ morning snack

10:30-11:45 Outside time

11:45-12:15 Circle time

12:15-12:45 Lunch

Midday

12:45-2:45 Nap time or Extended Day

                     Nap time in Kulshan and Extended Day in Tahoma

2:45-3:10   Wake up/ getting ready for the park

Afternoon

3:10-4:15 Interbay Playfield

4:15-4:30 Snack time

4:30-4:45 Circle time

4:45-6:00 Afternoon projects/ afternoon work time

Tahoma preschool Daily Schedule

Morning

7:45-8:30 Drop offs, breakfast from home, work time

8:30-10:30 Work time/ morning snack

10:30-11:45 Outside time

Midday

11:45-12:15 Circle time

12:15-12:45 Lunch

12:45-2:45 Nap time or Extended Day

Nap time in Kulshan and Extended Day in Tahoma

2:45-3:10 Wake up/ getting ready for the park

Afternoon

3:10-4:15 Interbay Playfield

4:15-4:30 Snack time

4:30-4:45 Circle time

4:45-6:00 Afternoon projects/ afternoon work time

Kulshan & Tahoma Preschool Notes

….Preschool Welcome Notes….  

Expect your Preschool Teacher to reach out on Brightwheel with more specifics.  

Please reach out to them on Brightwheel!

*LABLE EVERYTHING
We do our very best to keep track of what belongs to who, but putting your child’s name on their belongings is the best way to make sure things don't get mixed up. 

*Nap Bed

There are special nap beds available at various retail outlets, i.e. Pottery Barn, Land of Nod, Target, or two small blankets from home that can stay at school for a week at a time. Please bring your child’s bed in a bag to store at school. We provide mats for cushioning.  Your child is also welcome to have a nap time cuddle buddy that will stay in their cubby the rest of the day.  A cuddly friend for naptime should be something that stays at school all week, not something that goes back and forth from home to school.  Please make sure it is small and fits in the nap bed cubby.  :)

*If your child is still napping in diapers/pull ups please bring a supply at the start of each week. 

*Rain Gear
We go outside rain or shine, please bring some kind of rain gear for your child, pants, boots, and a jacket. 

*Water Bottle (please label it)

*Extra Clothes
A gallon zip lock bag with an extra set or two of clothes is great for us to have on hand, dirty clothes will be in a labeled bag on your child’s cubby to go home with you.  A child size backpack is great. Don’t forget the socks! 

*Slippers, Inside Shoes or Socks
We don't wear outside shoes in the classroom nor can children have bare feet. Please bring to school, and plan to leave at school, something for feet while in the classroom! 

*If your child has BM accidents you can bring wipes.  If you bring wipes please bring a medication management form as well. 

*Family Photo
Please bring a family photo that can stay at school, we keep a Family Board in the classroom and it can help children transition to the classroom. 

*Paper Work
The DCYF requires that we have paperwork for the children on the premisses if the child is in our care. For your child’s safety please complete all required paperwork by the first day. 

*Earthquake Kit

See notes on previous page under the “disaster preparedness plan” section.

_____________________________________________________________________________________

Things to stay at home 

Please DO NOT bring special snacks for your child unless you have arranged something with us. 

Toys, books, or other treasure from home unless it is your child’s sharing day.  Please leave these things home or in the car.  

Kindergarten Transitions

The Montessori Method and its practices fully prepare your child/children for their kindergarten year.  In fact, our Montessori teachers are certified to teach children through their kindergarten!    

We are happy to support you and your child with school recommendations, letters, phone calls, etc when the time comes.  

Denali toddler Daily Schedule & Notes

7:45 Welcome!

8:00-8:15  Eat breakfast from home and get ready to go outside

8:30-9:30 Outdoor adventures (playground and/or walk)

9:30-10:15 Diapering/toileting and snack

10:15-11:30 Work time

11:30-11:45 Circle time – check monthly calendar to learn more!

11:45 – 12:30 Lunch time

12:30 – 12:45 Clean up, diapering/toileting and rest 

12:30 – 2:45 Nap time

2:45 – 3:00 Diapering/toileting

3:00 – 3:30 Snack and clean up

3:30 – 4:15 Guided activity/classroom exploration

4:15-4:30 Getting ready to go outside

4:30-5:30 Afternoon playground time

5:30-6:00 Come inside, diapering/toileting

6:00 All children picked up, see you tomorrow!

What Your Denali Toddler Needs:

• Clothes - We go outside rain or shine so please make sure your child is prepared

• 3-4 tops

• 3-4 bottoms

• 3-4 pairs of socks

• 1 warm hat

• 1 sun hat

• 1 jacket (based on weather)

• Bib (if your child is teething/drooling) 

• Medications/Lotions *You must fill out authorization forms before usage* *All items must be in the original unopened packaging with the child's first and last name*

• Diaper cream (if not using school provided)

• Sunscreen *fragrance free, no spray*

• Skin lotions (if needed) 

• Labeled water bottle

• Diapers (We use about 5 a day)

• Nap bed (blankets)

• Earthquake * See notes on previous page under the “disaster preparedness plan” section*

• All Brightwheel profiles must be completed

Classroom Notes

• Family communication is a big part of our room, please use BrightWheel for quick messages. Lead teacher is available for phone calls or in person meetings upon request!

• Every Friday please take home and clean nap beds and any dirty clothes.

• Normal daily drop off should be by 8:30am. Please note we do not allow drop off’s between 12:30-2:45 to not disturb other children's nap time.

• Pacifiers will only be offered during nap time. We will work with families and children to adjust to this point, if needed.

• Children may bring breakfast from home and eat between 7:45-8:15, we recommend quick and clean breakfast.

• Your child may have 1 personal toy/lovey in the classroom; they can have it for nap time. Please help keep our room clean by taking home the item.

Loowit toddler Daily Schedule & Notes

7:45 - 9:30 Greetings, snack & personal hygiene

9:30 - 10:30       Outside play

10:30 - 11:45     Work time - circle, personal hygiene

11:45 – 12:30 Circle & Lunch time

12:30 – 12:45 Clean up, diapering/toileting and rest 

12:30 – 2:45 Nap time

2:45 – 3:00 Diapering/toileting

3:30 – 4:30 Outside Play

4:30 Afternoon circle & personal hygiene

5:00 -5:30 Sensory & art projects

5:30                   Clean up and books 

6pm                   See you tomorrow!

….Loowit Toddler Welcome Letter….  

Expect the Toddler Lead Teacher to reach out on Brightwheel with more specifics.  

Please reach out to them on Brightwheel!

Dear Parents,

Welcome to Little Mountain Montessori!  We are so thankful that you have chosen to bring your little one into our care. We are excited to embark on this journey together and look forward to fostering a warm, nurturing, and engaging environment for your child.

To ensure a smooth and comfortable experience, we ask that you bring the following items daily for your child; 

• Three full changes of clothes

• A wet bag for soiled clothing

• Bag of diapers in your child's size 

• Wipes; we use WaterWipe Brand at our school, if you prefer to bring in your own please feel free to do so 

• Diaper Cream; We will use standard Desitin Brand at our School. If you prefer to use your own just let us know and we will have you fill out a Medication Form

• A comfort item (lovey, small blanket, etc.)

• Nap blankets - preschool nap bed 

• A small water bottle labeled with your child's name

• Inside shoes or socks for the classroom

We encourage you to label your child's belongings (clothing, lovies, nap beds etc)

Drop-Off Expectations:
To create a calm and smooth transition for both you and your child, we follow these drop-off procedures:

• Please remove your shoes at the door before entering the classroom entryway.

• Helping your child transition into the classroom by encouraging them to place their belongings in their cubby and to join their friends. 

• We kindly ask parents to avoid sneaking out. Instead, use confident and reassuring language, such as: “Mom is going to work, but I’ll be back to pick you up at [time].” This helps children feel secure and builds trust.

• If/when you and your child are ready for quicker drop offs we will be ready to help your child transition into the day.

In care, 

Toddler Guild
Little Mountain Montessori School

Yama infant Class Schedule & Notes

Infant Room Class Schedule

This schedule outlines a typical day in our infant room, designed to provide a nurturing and stimulating environment for our youngest learners. Activities are flexible and adapt to the individual needs and rhythms of each child, prioritizing their natural development and exploration.

Time Activity Description

7:45 AM - 8:30 AM Arrival, Breakfast & Free Play Children arrive, engage in quiet exploration with prepared materials, and are greeted by teachers. Breakfast for early arrival.

8:45 AM - 9:00 AM Diapering Individual diaper changes.

9:00 AM - 9:30 AM Free Play Children engage in free play

9:30 AM - 10:00 AM AM Snack Morning Snack for all kids. Be mindful of seating in regards to allergies.

10:00 AM - 10:30 AM Outdoor Exploration/Walk for Coffee Morning walk for 4 of 8 babies, usually the bigger kids.

10:00 AM - 10:30 AM Little ones 1st nap Smallest ones have their 1st nap of the day

11:00 AM - 11:15 AM Diapering Individual diaper changes and toileting.

11:30 PM - 1:00 PM Nap/Rest Time Individualized nap schedules in a quiet, calm environment. Littles 2nd Nap at 12:30pm

12:30pm - 1:00 PM Quiet Time Activity Children have weekly art tasks set up for after nap

1:00 PM - 1:30 PM Lunch Offered based on individual feeding schedules.

1:30 PM - 1:45 PM Diapering Individual diaper changes.

2:00 PM - 3:00 PM Play Outside play until 3 PM

2:30 PM - 3:00 PM Littles 3rd Nap Smallest ones have their 3rd nap of the day

3:00 PM - 3:30 PM PM Snack Continued exploration with materials, followed by quiet story time and songs.

4:00 PM - 5:30 PM Free Play & Departure Children engage in free play as they await pick-up.

Important Notes for infants:

Individualized Care: This schedule serves as a general guide. We prioritize the

individual needs of each infant, including feeding, sleeping, and diapering routines.

Communication: We maintain open communication with parents regarding their

child's daily activities and progress. Daily reports will be provided at pick-up.

Preparation: Please ensure your child comes to school with all necessary supplies,

including extra clothes, diapers, and any comfort items they may need.

….Infant Welcome Letter….  

Expect the Infant Lead Teacher to reach out on Brightwheel with more specifics.  Please reach out to them on Brightwheel!

Dear Parents,

Welcome to Little Mountain Montessori School! We are so grateful that you have chosen to bring your little one into our care. We are excited to embark on this journey together and look forward to fostering a warm, nurturing, and engaging environment for your child.

To ensure a smooth and comfortable experience, we ask that you bring the following items daily for your child:

• Bottles (2-6 empty bottles of your babies preference to minimize bottle confusion)

• Extra milk supply;

• If your baby is drinking breast milk; either daily fresh (unfozen) breast milk already divided into servings, or frozen breast milk already divided into individual bags to store in our freezer

• Please Keep in Mind; All breast milk needs to be labeled with Childs last name and dated as per WA State Licensing Requirements

• If your baby is drinking formula; you may bring in a container of formula of your choice to keep on hand in the classroom

• Two full changes of clothes

• A wet bag for soiled clothing

• Bag of diapers in your childs size 

• Wipes; we use WaterWipe Brand at our school, if you prefer to bring in your own please feel free to do so 

• Diaper Cream; We will use standard Desitin Brand at our School. If you prefer to use your own just let us know and we will have you fill out a Medication Form

• A comfort item (lovey, small blanket, etc.)

• Pacifier (if used)

• Sleep sack (no loose blankets per state licensing regulations)

• Any other infant essentials your child may need

For children who are eating solids:

• Non-perishable snacks for the day

• Small refrigerated snacks (to be stored in our fridge)

• Whole milk if your child is over 12 months and transitioning to cow’s milk

Drop-Off Expectations:
To create a calm and smooth transition for both you and your child, we follow these drop-off procedures:

• Please remove your shoes at the door before entering the classroom entryway.

• Place your child’s daily bag in the designated drop-off area.

• Help your child transition into the classroom by either sitting with them for a short story time or, for older children, allowing them to join their friends at the table for Cheerios or fruit.

• We kindly ask parents to avoid sneaking out. Instead, use confident and reassuring language, such as: “Mom is going to work, but I’ll be back to pick you up at [time].” This helps children feel secure and builds trust.

What You Might See on the First Day

There are several practices we use in the Infant Room, such as Early Childhood ASL and Color-Coded tape for organization

• ASL: We use American Sign Language to communicate with pre-verbal babies. 

• Here is a link that gives a background to the practice of using ASL with Infants: https://headstart.gov/publication/using-american-sign-language-early-learning

• Here is a link of commonly used Signs in an Infant Classroom; https://www.thebump.com/a/how-to-teach-baby-sign-language\

• Color Coded Tape. You may notice that items like bottles, pacifiers, lovies, clothing, and food containers will be marked with a small piece of colored tape. While we ALWAYS encourage you to label your child’s belongings, color coding is a quick way for us to visually identify what belongs to who.

BrightWheel App:
We use the BrightWheel app to track your child’s daily schedule, including bottle feedings, naps, and diaper changes. Please note that while we strive to update information in real time, there may be delays during busy moments in the classroom. Rest assured that all details will be entered before pick-up.

Health Policy Reminder:
Per Washington State Licensing Requirements, children who are sick must remain home until they are symptom-free for at least 24 hours without medication. This policy helps us maintain a healthy environment for all children and staff.

Please feel free to reach out to me with any questions or concerns to me via the BrightWheel App. We are here to support you and your child every step of the way!

Thank you again for entrusting us with the care of your little one. We look forward to a wonderful year together!

Warmly,
Molly Bonham
Infant Classroom Lead
Little Mountain Montessori School

Nondiscrimination Statement

Little Mountain Montessori absolutely does not discriminate.  We do not discriminate in employment practices or client services based on race, creed, color, national origin, marital status, gender, sexual orientation, class, age, religion or disability.  We will not tolerate discrimination in any way between people at Little Mountain Montessori.  

Additional and complete policies as required by the Department of Early Learning

*Medication Policy

*ADA Policy 

*Pet Policy - changes to pet policy include a visiting school dog.  

*Health Policy

*Bloodborne Pathogen Policy

*Disaster Policy

Can be found in their entirety in the “Policies and Procedures” notebook in the lobby.  Please familiarize yourself with it.  Direct any questions to Hannah.

*We do not do water activities 

*Little Mountain Montessori is a weapon free zone.  No weapons are allowed or kept on the premises.

*Alcohol, tobacco, cannabis, and all other illegal drugs are prohibited on site.  Staff must be sober at all times while at school.  Substances are not kept at Little Mountain Montessori. 

We are so excited to have you and your family joining us at Little Mountain Montessori.  If you have any questions please don't hesitate to call or email Hannah.