As a parent, do you ever wish you could make school…better? Our little ones go from environments that encourage play and imagination to a system of conformed expectations and high-stakes testing, with little time for transition in between. But picture this classroom: instead of traditional desks in rows, you’ve got kids sprawled out on cozy rugs, engrossed in activities that range from practical life skills to advanced astrophysics (okay, maybe not astrophysics, but a kid can dream, right?) They’re learning at their own pace, following their own curiosities, and becoming independent, confident learners. My friend, you have just discovered the amazingness of a Montessori School. Here are some amazing Montessori Schools in the Chicago Suburbs!
1335 West Randolph Street, Chicago, Illinois 60607
The Montessori Academy of Chicago is an institution that offers exemplary care and education for Nursery, Primary, Elementary, and Middle School learners. Their year-round, all-day programming is available for little ones as young as 6 weeks old and growing with them all the way through 8th grade. Their beautiful facility in the West Loop neighborhood has spacious classrooms filled with natural light, an outdoor nursery playground, a 4,000-square-foot gymnasium, and plenty of other spaces to encourage and support hands-on learning and growth!
1945 W. Wilson Ave., 2nd floor, Chicago, IL 60640
Ravenswood Montessori School is an early education center for little ones ages 2 through 6 years old. Ravenswood students will be guided by Montessori principles like sensory exploration, language development, and social interactivity. Through purposeful activity, students will get to engage with language, mathematics, music, science, and other important subjects. You’ll love watching your little ones grow as they learn independence, order, coordination, self-control, and other critical skills for a lifetime of success.
1713 W Cullom Ave, Chicago, IL 60613
Chicago Montessori built a highly accredited institution that offers children a meaningful, collaborative, and liberated education. Their school offers a “quaint, schoolhouse feel in an urban environment” with a cozy, welcoming aesthetic. They carefully designed and prepared each classroom and learning space to facilitate maximum independent learning and self-guided exploration. They are also a dual language Spanish/English program that is fully staffed by native Spanish speakers in every classroom for a more immersive language learning environment.
4041 North Pulaski Road, Chicago, IL 60641
Gateway Montessori is a beautiful school with a mission to “aid the children in the natural unfolding of their inborn potentialities” and “to educate families about children’s natural development.” Their programs include The Community (for ages 15 months to 3 years), Children’s House (for ages 3 – 6 years), and Elementary (for ages 6 – 12 years.) All students will learn and practice practical life skills like setting the table, hand washing, and sewing, giving them a sense of self-confidence and giving them the security of routine daily family life.
1434 West Division, Chicago, IL 60642
Near North Montessori School has been a welcoming, enriching environment for Chicago suburbs students and families since opening in 1963. Whether your little one is in their early education program or junior high, they’ll be supported by faculty who promote confidence, independence, and curiosity. The school itself built a remarkable facility. It is complete with a two-story STEAM innovation space, a 300-seat theater, a rooftop urban farm, an indoor swimming pool, and plenty of outdoor playing space. In 2019, the school also added a chef’s kitchen, arts and textile studio, and woodworking space. As well as even more environments for enrichment and learning!
These Montessori schools in the Chicago suburbs created wonderful learning environments where all children can feel valued, encouraged, and challenged. Some of the schools have parent/child meetups, coffee dates, and open houses. Giving you more opportunities learn more about their programming. So check them out and sign up today!
If you’re looking for more ways to enjoy motherhood, you should stick around! I’m a Chicago photographer, and I adore planning photo sessions with families. As a mom myself, I know that this time tends to feel like a total haze. So, I want to help you create gorgeous memories so you can cherish this season forever. If you’ve been meaning to plan some pictures celebrating your little one, let’s meet! Contact me today to start the conversation.