Preschool for 2 Year Olds in Highlands Ranch

Nurturing Young Minds Through Play and Exploration

Our Montessori-inspired preschool in Highlands Ranch is proud to also welcome children from the Lone Tree and Centennial communities. We offer a nurturing and stimulating environment where your 2-year-old can discover their passion for learning. Our dedicated teachers foster a love of exploration and help children develop essential skills for a bright future. Join us and experience the transformative power of a Montessori education. 

Montessori Methods

Our preschool program is based on the Montessori method, which emphasizes the following principles:

• Prepared Environment: We create a carefully prepared environment that is designed to meet the needs of 2-year-olds. Our classrooms are filled with age-appropriate materials and activities that encourage exploration and discovery.
• Freedom Within Limits: We provide children with freedom to explore and learn at their own pace, while setting clear boundaries to ensure safety and respect.
• Practical Life Activities: Practical life activities, such as pouring water, buttoning and unbuttoning, and sweeping, help children develop independence and fine motor skills.
• Sensorial Activities: Sensorial activities help children develop their senses and refine their perception of the world.
• Language Development: We support language development through storytelling, singing, and conversations.

How Montessori Half-Day Preschool Supports Early Development

Ivybrook Academy’s Montessori half-day preschool is designed to foster growth across key developmental areas:

• Motor Skills: Through hands-on activities, children enhance fine and gross motor skills, from handling materials to outdoor play.
• Social Interaction: Daily interactions with peers support social development and emotional intelligence.
• Cognitive Development: Structured yet flexible activities encourage problem-solving, critical thinking, and early cognitive skills.

A Typical Day at Our Montessori Half-Day Preschool

Understanding the daily schedule at Ivybrook Academy’s Montessori half-day preschool can give you insights into how your child’s day is both structured and enjoyable:

1. Arrival and Warm Welcome

We start each day by welcoming children with warmth and guided activities that help them transition comfortably into the classroom environment. This warm welcome sets a positive tone and allows children to settle in before structured activities begin.

2. Circle Time and Socialization

During circle time, children engage in group activities that promote social skills, build a sense of community, and encourage early friendships. This part of the day is essential for fostering a positive, inclusive atmosphere where every child feels valued.

3. Montessori Work Cycle

The Montessori work cycle is at the heart of our program. During this period, children explore self-directed activities across areas such as:

• Language Development: Activities like storytelling, picture cards, and conversation exercises to enhance vocabulary and communication.
• Sensorial Learning: Engaging exercises that refine sensory perception, encouraging children to explore textures, colors, and sounds.
• Practical Life Skills: Activities like pouring, buttoning, and tidying up, which promote independence and fine motor skill development.

4. Outdoor Play and Exploration

Outdoor time is essential to our program, giving children a chance to enjoy fresh air, physical activity, and social play. Outdoor play enhances motor skills, promotes teamwork, and allows children to connect with nature in a safe, supervised setting.

5. Closing Circle

We conclude each half-day session with a closing circle, where children participate in a final group activity such as singing, storytelling, or reflection. This provides a sense of closure to the day, reinforces connections, and leaves children with positive, memorable experiences.

Parent-Teacher Involvement

At Ivybrook Academy Highlands Ranch, we believe that strong parent-teacher partnerships are essential for a child's success. We encourage parents to be actively involved in their child's education and to communicate regularly with their child's teacher.

Key Benefits of Our Preschool Program

• Strong Foundation for Future Learning: Our program provides a solid foundation for future academic success.
• Social and Emotional Development: We foster positive social interactions and emotional well-being.
• Independence and Self-Confidence: Our Montessori approach helps children develop independence and self-confidence.
• Language and Cognitive Development: Children learn to communicate effectively and develop critical thinking skills.
• Love of Learning: We instill a lifelong love of learning in our students.

Enroll Your Child Today

If you're looking for a top-rated preschool in Highlands Ranch that provides a nurturing and stimulating learning environment, Ivybrook Academy is the perfect choice. Our preschool program is designed to help your child reach their full potential.

Contact us today to schedule a tour of our facility and learn more about our preschool program.