Parent’s Quick Guide to Montessori in Markham (3-Minute Read)
Choosing a Montessori school is a big decision. This guide explains what “authentic Montessori” looks like, how English–French immersion works in the early years, how CWELCC may support families, and what to watch for during a school tour—so you can confidently evaluate options in Markham.
01
What “Authentic Montessori” Looks Like
Prepared Environment:
Mixed-age classrooms (e.g., ~2.5–6) with child-sized furniture and well-ordered shelves for Practical Life, Sensorial, Language, and Math. Materials are designed for hands-on exploration and self-correction, encouraging independence and concentration.
Prepared Environment:
Children work in 2–3 hour blocks that minimize transitions. This allows deep focus, choice, and responsibility for one’s learning.
Role of the Guide (Teacher):
Montessori-trained guides observe, model, and scaffold rather than lecture. They present materials individually or in small groups and then step back to let the child practice.
Grace & Courtesy:
Daily routines emphasize respect, kindness, collaboration, and stewardship of the environment. Children practice polite language, conflict resolution, and service to others.
02
English–French Immersion in Early Years
Daily, Natural Exposure:
Children encounter French during classroom routines, songs, circle time, and stories alongside robust English foundations. Functional bilingualism grows from real-life contexts.
Cognitive Benefits
Early bilingualism supports memory, problem-solving, and flexible thinking.
Cultural Appreciation
Children learn to value diversity by experiencing both languages in natural contexts.
Family Involvement
Parents can support with bilingual books, songs, and short French phrases at home.
03
Faith & Character Formation at AGBM
Children start their day with simple prayers and songs of thankfulness.
Bible Stories
Age-appropriate stories teach kindness, honesty, and compassion.
Living Values
Courtesy and service are woven into daily classroom life.
Faith-based learning develops heart, mind, and spirit together.
04
Understanding CWELCC (Fee Reductions)
Government Program
CWELCC aims to reduce average daycare fees to $10/day by 2026.
AGBM Participation
Families may be able to benefit if eligible under York Region guidelines.
What to Ask
Confirm if the school is enrolled, how rebates are applied, and timelines.
Supporting Families
Lower fees make bilingual Montessori more accessible to Markham parents.
05
Classroom Tour: What to Observe
Atmosphere
Calm and purposeful; children choose work and focus independently.
Materials
Well-kept Montessori materials at child height, ready for use.
Teacher’s Role
Guides observe and support rather than direct every step.
Bilingual Environment
English and French both visible in books, labels, and songs.
06
Questions Parents Should Ask
Class Structure
Ages, ratios, and daily schedules for each program.
Montessori certifications and staff experience.
French Immersion
How French is integrated throughout the day.
How the school teaches Grace & Courtesy and resolves conflicts.
07
Admissions Timeline & Tips
Start Early
Tour schools before major intake periods.
Application Checklist
Forms, IDs, immunization, emergency contacts, and allergy plans.
Short, predictable routines and familiar items help children adjust.
Parent–School Conversation
Schedule a Q&A with the school to discuss the Montessori environment, daily schedule, and how children progress.
08
Why Consider AGBM
English–French immersion with faith-based character education.
Small Groups
Low ratios for more individualized attention.
Convenient Location
Near Mount Joy GO Station for commuting families.
Preschool, Casa, and Summer Camp, all Montessori-based.
09
Next Steps & How to Book a Tour
Book a Tour
Call 905-201-0124 or fill out the contact form.
Experience the Montessori environment first-hand.
Meet Teachers
Ask about immersion methods, values, and special accommodations (i.e. food allergy)
Decide Confidently
Use this guide’s checklist to evaluate if AGBM is right for your child.