Over a century ago, an educator, writer, lecturer and medical doctor by the name of Maria Montessori (1870-1952) developed an approach for educating and nurturing young children. As the first woman medical doctor in Italy, Dr. Montessori became very involved in the care and education of young children. Through her observations and teachings, she concluded that every child is an individual learner and should be encouraged to work at their own pace on projects that they initiate themselves. She believed that educating children was to create a better society. Her philosophy worked from the basic premise that children learn better when they are given the opportunity to choose and discover in their own way.

This method of teaching started in Italy where Dr. Montessori lived. It continued to gain popularity throughout Europe in the early nineteen hundreds and is practiced today all over the world.

Maria Montessori was a genius before her time. She believed a child’s mind from birth to six years was different from adults. She concluded that children effortlessly soak in everything in their culture and environment. She saw a tremendous need for children to have respectful, stimulating, nurturing and meaningful direction and guidance.

Today, over a century later, modern scientists are finding scientific data to support Dr. Montessori’s discoveries. Recent brain research studies confirm that children learn best through choices and play-like activities. Children also learn best at their own pace, in a way that they enjoy. That’s why the Brockville Montessori School provides children with hundreds of choices each day so that children will continue to enjoy learning while having fun. We believe it’s important for children to develop within themselves a lifetime love of learning.


Brockville Montessori School History
The Brockville Montessori School was established in 1976 as an independent school for children between the ages of 2 1/2 and 6 years of age, and offers a complete educational program for the preschool child. It was a non-profit charitable organization, licensed by the Ministry of Community and Social Services. July 1st, 2011 the school was purchased by Mary Jane Leslie and Erica Swirsky who are now the owners and operators of the school. The children enrolled are given individualized instruction and the opportunity to develop to their full potential - intellectually, physically, emotionally and socially. Our educational institution has grown over the past years and currently offers 1/2 and full day programs along with a summer program.